Jeremiah 44:17
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Jeremiah 44:17
17 But we will certainly do whatsoever thing goeth forth out of our own mouth, to burn incense unto the queen of heaven, and to pour out drink offerings unto her, as we have done, we, and our fathers, our kings, and our princes, in the cities of Judah, and in the streets of Jerusalem: for then had we plenty of victuals, and were well, and saw no evil.
Chapter Context
Jeremiah 44 is a prophetic oracle chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of obedience, creation, salvation. 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 21-30: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it contributes to the biblical metanarrative of redemption. 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 44:17
17 But we will certainly do whatsoever thing goeth forth out of our own mouth, to burn incense unto the queen of heaven, and to pour out drink offerings unto her, as we have done, we, and our fathers, our kings, and our princes, in the cities of Judah, and in the streets of Jerusalem: for then had we plenty of victuals, and were well, and saw no evil.
Analysis
The remnant in Egypt explicitly chooses idolatry, vowing to worship 'the queen of heaven' (likely Ishtar/Astarte). Their rationale is pragmatic rather than theological - they prospered during idolatry but suffered after Josiah's reforms. This inverts cause and effect: they attribute judgment (due to idolatry) to reform, and past blessings (God's patience) to idol worship. Hardened hearts interpret all data to justify rebellion.
Historical Context
The 'queen of heaven' worship involved women making cakes and burning incense. This was widespread in Jeremiah's time (7:18) and proved the depth of Judah's apostasy.
Reflection
- How do people misinterpret God's patience as approval of their sin?
- What forms of 'queen of heaven' worship (substitutes for God) exist today?
Word Studies
- Heaven: שָׁמַיִם (Shamayim) H8064 - Heaven, sky
Cross-References
- Kingdom: Jeremiah 19:13, 44:21, Nehemiah 9:34
- Sacrifice: Jeremiah 7:18, 44:25, Deuteronomy 23:23
- Parallel theme: Exodus 16:3, Numbers 30:12, 2 Kings 17:16, Ezekiel 20:8