Jeremiah 7:18
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Jeremiah 7:18
18 The children gather wood, and the fathers kindle the fire, and the women knead their dough, to make cakes to the queen of heaven, and to pour out drink offerings unto other gods, that they may provoke me to anger.
Chapter Context
Jeremiah 7 is a prophetic oracle chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of worship, mercy, redemption. 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 21-34: 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 7:18
18 The children gather wood, and the fathers kindle the fire, and the women knead their dough, to make cakes to the queen of heaven, and to pour out drink offerings unto other gods, that they may provoke me to anger.
Analysis
A detailed description of family idolatry follows: 'The children gather wood, and the fathers kindle the fire, and the women knead their dough, to make cakes to the queen of heaven.' This shows systematic, multigenerational involvement in pagan worship. The 'queen of heaven' (likely Ishtar/Astarte) received cakes and offerings. The phrase 'pour out drink offerings unto other gods' indicates comprehensive apostasy—not just neglecting Yahweh but actively worshiping false gods. The participation of children, fathers, and mothers shows how thoroughly idolatry permeated family life. This illustrates covenant breaking at the most basic unit of society.
Historical Context
Worship of the 'queen of heaven' was widespread in the ancient Near East. Jeremiah 44:15-19 reveals that after Jerusalem's fall, Jewish refugees in Egypt continued this practice, showing its deep-rooted nature.
Reflection
- How does family-based idolatry demonstrate the importance of household discipleship and worship?
- What modern equivalents of 'queen of heaven' worship compete for family devotion today?
- What is the relationship between private family practices and public covenant faithfulness?
Word Studies
- God: אֱלֹהִים (Elohim) H430 - God (plural of majesty)
Cross-References
- References God: 1 Kings 14:9
- Sacrifice: Jeremiah 19:13
- Parallel theme: 1 Corinthians 10:22