Jeremiah 17:23
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Jeremiah 17:23
23 But they obeyed not, neither inclined their ear, but made their neck stiff, that they might not hear, nor receive instruction.
Chapter Context
Jeremiah 17 is a prophetic oracle chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of righteousness, love, obedience. Written during the final years of Judah and early exile (c. 627-580 BCE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: Prophesied during Judah's final years as Babylon became the dominant power.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-12: Development of key themes
- Verses 13-20: Central message and teachings
- Verses 21-27: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it provides guidance for worship and spiritual devotion. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within Jeremiah and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
Jeremiah 17:23
23 But they obeyed not, neither inclined their ear, but made their neck stiff, that they might not hear, nor receive instruction.
Analysis
This verse chronicles Israel's historical rebellion: "But they obeyed not, neither inclined their ear." The phrase "inclined their ear" is a Hebrew idiom for attentive listening with intent to obey. The absence of both obedience and attentive listening indicates total rejection of God's word. "Made their neck stiff" (hiqshu et-arfam, הִקְשׁוּ אֶת-עָרְפָּם) employs livestock imagery—like a stubborn ox that refuses to bear the yoke (cf. Ex 32:9, Deut 9:6, 31:27).
"That they might not hear, nor receive instruction" reveals the deliberate, willful nature of rebellion. This wasn't innocent ignorance but active resistance to divine truth. The Hebrew musar (מוּסָר, instruction/discipline) includes both teaching and corrective discipline. Refusing instruction demonstrates the hardness of heart that provokes God's judgment.
This verse illustrates the Reformed doctrine of human depravity—the natural state of rebellion against God (Rom 1:28, 8:7). The stiff neck metaphor appears throughout Scripture as characteristic of unrepentant sinners (Acts 7:51). Only divine grace can soften hard hearts and grant repentance (Ezek 36:26, Acts 11:18). Christ came to call sinners to repentance (Luke 5:32), offering the new covenant that transforms stubborn rebels into willing servants.
Historical Context
Israel's pattern of disobedience stretches from the exodus wilderness rebellion through the judges period and divided monarchy. Despite repeated warnings, reformations, and divine patience, the people persistently violated covenant stipulations. This chronic rebellion culminated in exile—the ultimate covenant curse. Deuteronomy 28-30 predicted precisely this pattern of disobedience leading to exile, which Jeremiah witnessed being fulfilled.
Reflection
- In what areas are you tempted to stiffen your neck against God's clear instruction?
- How does deliberate refusal to hear God's word differ from genuine struggle to understand or obey?
- What evidences of a softened heart versus a stiff neck do you see in your life?
Cross-References
- Creation: Jeremiah 11:10
- Parallel theme: Jeremiah 19:15, 32:33, Proverbs 29:1, Isaiah 48:4, Ezekiel 20:21, Zephaniah 3:7