Jeremiah 6:20
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Jeremiah 6:20
20 To what purpose cometh there to me incense from Sheba, and the sweet cane from a far country? your burnt offerings are not acceptable, nor your sacrifices sweet unto me.
Chapter Context
Jeremiah 6 is a prophetic oracle chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of sacrifice, faith, judgment. 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 reveals key aspects of God's character through divine actions and declarations. 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 6:20
20 To what purpose cometh there to me incense from Sheba, and the sweet cane from a far country? your burnt offerings are not acceptable, nor your sacrifices sweet unto me.
Analysis
God rejects their worship as meaningless: incense from Sheba (southwestern Arabia) and sweet cane from distant countries cannot compensate for covenant unfaithfulness. The rhetorical question 'To what purpose...?' exposes the futility of religious ritual without obedience. Their offerings are 'not acceptable' and sacrifices give no 'delight.' This illustrates the prophetic principle that God desires obedience over sacrifice (1 Samuel 15:22). External religious observance without heart transformation is offensive rather than pleasing to God. Reformed theology emphasizes that true worship must flow from regenerate hearts; otherwise, even biblically prescribed rituals become abominations.
Historical Context
Despite growing moral corruption, Judah maintained temple worship with expensive imported spices and materials. This created false confidence that ritual observance would protect them from judgment.
Reflection
- How can religious activity become a substitute for genuine heart obedience?
- What makes worship acceptable or unacceptable to God?
- How should this verse inform our understanding of the relationship between liturgy and lifestyle?
Word Studies
- Sacrifice: זֶבַח (Zevach) H2077 - Sacrifice, offering
Cross-References
- Sacrifice: Psalms 40:6, Isaiah 1:11, 66:3
- Parallel theme: Exodus 30:23, Isaiah 60:6