Jeremiah 13:26

So I will pull your skirts up over your face, that your shame may be seen.

Study Bible

So I will pull
The phrase "So I will pull" indicates a direct action from God. The Hebrew root for "pull" is "gāla," which often conveys the idea of uncovering or revealing. This action is not merely physical but symbolic of exposing hidden sins. In the context of ancient Israel, God is the one who reveals the truth, bringing hidden iniquities to light. This serves as a reminder of God's omniscience and His role as the ultimate judge who sees beyond outward appearances.

your skirts up over your face
The imagery of "your skirts up over your face" is vivid and culturally significant. In ancient Near Eastern culture, clothing was a symbol of dignity and status. To have one's skirts lifted was a metaphor for humiliation and disgrace. The Hebrew word for "skirts" is "kanaph," which can also mean "wing" or "extremity," suggesting something that covers or protects. The act of lifting the skirts signifies the removal of protection and exposure to shame. This metaphor underscores the severity of Israel's unfaithfulness and the resulting divine judgment.

that your shame may be seen
The purpose of this exposure is "that your shame may be seen." The Hebrew word for "shame" is "bōsheth," which conveys a deep sense of disgrace and dishonor. In the biblical context, shame is often associated with sin and the consequences of turning away from God. The public nature of this exposure serves as a warning to others and a call to repentance. It highlights the seriousness of sin and the inevitable consequences of living in disobedience to God's covenant. This phrase serves as a sobering reminder of the importance of living a life that honors God, avoiding actions that lead to spiritual and communal disgrace.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Jeremiah
A prophet called by God to deliver messages of warning and judgment to the people of Judah. His ministry spanned over 40 years during the reigns of several kings.

2. Judah
The southern kingdom of Israel, which had turned away from God, engaging in idolatry and other sins. Jeremiah's prophecies were directed primarily at this kingdom.

3. God's Judgment
The event of divine retribution that Jeremiah warns about, where God reveals the sins of Judah and punishes them for their unfaithfulness.

Teaching Points

The Consequences of Sin
Sin leads to shame and exposure. Just as Judah's sins were laid bare, our sins will eventually be revealed if we do not repent.

God's Righteous Judgment
God's judgment is just and righteous. He does not overlook sin, and His actions are meant to bring about repentance and restoration.

The Call to Repentance
The exposure of sin is a call to repentance. We must turn away from our sinful ways and seek God's forgiveness.

The Importance of Faithfulness
Faithfulness to God is crucial. Judah's unfaithfulness led to their downfall, serving as a warning for us to remain steadfast in our relationship with God.

God's Desire for Restoration
Despite the harshness of judgment, God's ultimate desire is for His people to return to Him and be restored.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the imagery of "pulling up skirts" in Jeremiah 13:26 relate to the concept of shame and exposure in our own lives?

2. In what ways can we see the consequences of unfaithfulness to God in today's world, similar to the judgment faced by Judah?

3. How do the themes of judgment and repentance in Jeremiah 13:26 connect with the teachings of Jesus in the New Testament?

4. What steps can we take to ensure that we remain faithful to God and avoid the pitfalls of sin and shame?

5. How can we apply the lessons from Jeremiah 13:26 to encourage others in their walk with God, especially those who may be struggling with sin?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Isaiah 47:3
This verse also speaks of exposure and shame as a form of judgment, emphasizing the theme of divine retribution for sin.

Ezekiel 16:37
Similar imagery is used to describe the exposure of sin and shame, reinforcing the consequences of unfaithfulness to God.

Hosea 2:10
Hosea uses the metaphor of exposing nakedness to illustrate Israel's unfaithfulness and the resulting shame.