Jeremiah 19:13
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Jeremiah 19:13
13 And the houses of Jerusalem, and the houses of the kings of Judah, shall be defiled as the place of Tophet, because of all the houses upon whose roofs they have burned incense unto all the host of heaven, and have poured out drink offerings unto other gods.
Chapter Context
Jeremiah 19 is a prophetic oracle chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of truth, obedience, righteousness. 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 13-15: Central message and teachings
This chapter is significant because it provides essential context for understanding God's covenant relationship with His people. 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 19:13
13 And the houses of Jerusalem, and the houses of the kings of Judah, shall be defiled as the place of Tophet, because of all the houses upon whose roofs they have burned incense unto all the host of heaven, and have poured out drink offerings unto other gods.
Analysis
The houses of Jerusalem and the kings' palaces are 'defiled' because they burned incense to 'all the host of heaven' on their rooftops. Astral worship (worship of sun, moon, stars) violated the first commandment and the explicit warnings of Deuteronomy 4:19. Rooftop worship was public and flagrant. The defilement made these houses 'as the place of Tophet' - fit only for judgment.
Historical Context
Rooftop worship was common in ancient Near Eastern culture. The flat roofs of houses provided convenient spaces for pagan rituals, making idolatry visible throughout the city.
Reflection
- How does public sin increase accountability and corporate guilt?
- What modern forms of 'host of heaven' worship compete with devotion to God alone?
Word Studies
- God: אֱלֹהִים (Elohim) H430 - God (plural of majesty)
Cross-References
- Kingdom: 2 Kings 23:12
- References God: Deuteronomy 4:19, Psalms 79:1
- Sacrifice: Jeremiah 7:18, 32:29, 44:18
- Parallel theme: 2 Kings 23:10, Psalms 74:7, Zephaniah 1:5