Jeremiah 19:3
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Jeremiah 19:3
3 And say, Hear ye the word of the LORD, O kings of Judah, and inhabitants of Jerusalem; Thus saith the LORD of hosts, the God of Israel; Behold, I will bring evil upon this place, the which whosoever heareth, his ears shall tingle.
Chapter Context
Jeremiah 19 is a prophetic oracle chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of prayer, judgment, wisdom. 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 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 19:3
3 And say, Hear ye the word of the LORD, O kings of Judah, and inhabitants of Jerusalem; Thus saith the LORD of hosts, the God of Israel; Behold, I will bring evil upon this place, the which whosoever heareth, his ears shall tingle.
Analysis
God addresses 'kings of Judah' (plural) and 'inhabitants of Jerusalem,' showing the judgment's comprehensive scope. The phrase 'whosoever heareth, his ears shall tingle' indicates shocking, unprecedented judgment. Similar language appears regarding Eli's house (1 Sam 3:11) and Jerusalem's destruction (2 Kings 21:12). When God's patience exhausts, judgment becomes a cautionary tale.
Historical Context
The 'tingling ears' idiom indicates news so shocking it causes physical sensation. Jerusalem's destruction would become proverbial throughout the ancient Near East.
Reflection
- What judgments of God in history should make our ears 'tingle' with warning?
- How do you respond to biblical warnings of judgment?
Word Studies
- Word: דָּבָר (Davar) H1697 - Word, thing, matter
Cross-References
- References Lord: 1 Samuel 3:11
- Kingdom: Jeremiah 17:20
- Word: Jeremiah 6:19
- Parallel theme: Isaiah 28:19