Jeremiah 32:7

Behold! Hanamel, the son of your uncle Shallum, is coming to you to say, 'Buy for yourself my field in Anathoth, for you have the right of redemption to buy it.'

Study Bible

Behold
The Hebrew word for "behold" is "הִנֵּה" (hinneh), which serves as an attention-grabbing term, urging the listener or reader to pay close attention to what follows. In the context of Jeremiah, this word underscores the importance of the message God is delivering. It is a divine interruption, signaling that something significant is about to occur. This word invites us to pause and reflect on the unfolding divine plan, reminding us that God is actively involved in the details of our lives.

Hanamel son of Shallum your uncle
"Hanamel" is a personal name meaning "God is gracious." The mention of Hanamel, along with his lineage, roots this narrative in a specific family context, emphasizing the personal and relational aspects of God's instructions. The familial connection highlights the importance of kinship and the responsibilities that come with it. In ancient Israel, family ties were crucial, and this transaction is not just a business deal but a fulfillment of familial duty and divine command.

is coming to you
This phrase indicates a future action, suggesting that God is orchestrating events. The certainty of Hanamel's coming reflects God's sovereign control over circumstances. It reassures Jeremiah that God is aware of and involved in the unfolding events. This divine foreknowledge provides comfort and assurance that God’s plans are purposeful and intentional.

to say
The act of speaking here is significant. In the biblical context, words are powerful and often carry divine authority. Hanamel's forthcoming request is not merely a human transaction but is imbued with divine purpose. This phrase reminds us of the power of words and the importance of listening for God's voice in our interactions.

‘Buy for yourself my field in Anathoth
The command to "buy" involves a legal and economic transaction. "Anathoth" is a town in the territory of Benjamin, known as the hometown of Jeremiah. The field represents more than just land; it symbolizes hope and future restoration. Despite the impending Babylonian siege, this purchase is an act of faith, demonstrating trust in God's promise of eventual restoration and return.

for you have the right of redemption to buy it
The "right of redemption" refers to the Levitical law found in Leviticus 25:25, which allowed a family member to redeem property to keep it within the family. This legal provision underscores the importance of land in Israelite society as a divine inheritance. Jeremiah's act of redemption is a prophetic sign of God's faithfulness to His covenant promises. It serves as a reminder that God redeems and restores, even in the midst of judgment and exile.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Jeremiah
A prophet called by God to deliver His messages to the people of Judah. He is known for his prophecies of judgment and hope.

2. Hanamel
The son of Shallum and Jeremiah's cousin. He approaches Jeremiah with an offer to buy his field in Anathoth.

3. Shallum
Hanamel's father and Jeremiah's uncle, indicating a family connection and the legal right of redemption.

4. Anathoth
A town in the territory of Benjamin, known as Jeremiah's hometown. It holds significance as the location of the field in question.

5. Right of Redemption
A legal principle in ancient Israelite culture allowing a family member to redeem or buy back property to keep it within the family.

Teaching Points

Faith in God's Promises
Jeremiah's purchase of the field is an act of faith in God's promise of restoration despite the impending Babylonian exile. Believers are encouraged to trust in God's promises even when circumstances seem bleak.

Obedience to God's Commands
Jeremiah's willingness to buy the field demonstrates obedience to God's command. Christians are called to obey God's instructions, trusting in His greater plan.

Hope in Restoration
The act of redemption symbolizes hope and future restoration. Believers can find hope in God's ability to restore and redeem situations in their lives.

Family and Community Responsibility
The right of redemption emphasizes the importance of family and community responsibility. Christians are encouraged to support and uphold their families and communities.

Symbolic Acts of Faith
Jeremiah's purchase serves as a symbolic act of faith. Believers can engage in acts that symbolize their faith and trust in God's promises.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the concept of the "right of redemption" in Jeremiah 32:7 reflect God's concern for family and community? How can we apply this principle in our own lives today?

2. In what ways does Jeremiah's purchase of the field serve as an act of faith? How can we demonstrate faith in God's promises in our current circumstances?

3. How does the account of Boaz and Ruth in the book of Ruth enhance our understanding of the redemption process seen in Jeremiah 32:7?

4. What are some modern-day "fields" that God might be calling us to "buy" as a demonstration of our trust in His future plans?

5. How can we balance obedience to God's commands with the challenges and uncertainties we face in our lives, as exemplified by Jeremiah's actions?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Leviticus 25:25
This verse outlines the law of redemption, where a family member has the right to redeem property sold by a relative. It provides the legal and cultural background for Jeremiah's right to buy the field.

Ruth 4:1-10
The account of Boaz redeeming the land for Naomi and marrying Ruth illustrates the practice of redemption and its importance in maintaining family heritage and property.

Jeremiah 29:11
This verse speaks of God's plans for hope and a future, which connects to the symbolic act of Jeremiah buying the field as a sign of future restoration.