Jeremiah 6:9
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Jeremiah 6:9
9 Thus saith the LORD of hosts, They shall throughly glean the remnant of Israel as a vine: turn back thine hand as a grapegatherer into the baskets.
Chapter Context
Jeremiah 6 is a prophetic oracle chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of wisdom, judgment, 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 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 6:9
9 Thus saith the LORD of hosts, They shall throughly glean the remnant of Israel as a vine: turn back thine hand as a grapegatherer into the baskets.
Analysis
The LORD commands thorough gleaning of Israel's remnant like grapes left after harvest. The phrase 'turn back thine hand as a grapegatherer into the baskets' suggests multiple passes to ensure nothing is missed. This can be understood in two ways: either as thoroughgoing judgment leaving nothing, or as God's careful gathering of a faithful remnant. Reformed theology emphasizes God's sovereignty in preserving a remnant (Romans 11:5). The gleaning metaphor appears elsewhere in Scripture both for judgment (stripping bare) and mercy (careful gathering of what remains).
Historical Context
After the initial Babylonian deportation (597 BC), a remnant remained in Judah. However, continued rebellion led to further deportations, leaving the land nearly desolate by 586 BC.
Reflection
- How does the remnant theology in Scripture encourage believers during times of widespread apostasy?
- What does God's thoroughness in this gleaning process teach about His attention to detail in both judgment and salvation?
- How should the concept of the remnant shape our expectations for the church in difficult times?
Word Studies
- Lord: יְהוָה / אֲדֹנָי (YHWH / Adonai) H3068 - The LORD / Lord
Cross-References
- References Lord: Jeremiah 16:16
- Parallel theme: Jeremiah 49:9