Jeremiah 32:9

So I bought the field in Anathoth from my cousin Hanamel, and I weighed out seventeen shekels of silver.

Study Bible

So I bought the field
This phrase marks a significant act of faith and obedience by the prophet Jeremiah. The Hebrew word for "bought" is "קָנָה" (qanah), which implies acquiring or purchasing. In the historical context, this purchase was made during a time when Jerusalem was under siege by the Babylonians, making the acquisition of land seem illogical. Yet, Jeremiah's action was a prophetic symbol of hope and restoration, demonstrating his trust in God's promise that the land would once again be inhabited and fruitful.

at Anathoth
Anathoth was a town in the territory of Benjamin, about three miles northeast of Jerusalem. It was also Jeremiah's hometown, adding a personal dimension to this transaction. The mention of Anathoth is significant because it was a Levitical city, and Jeremiah, being a priest, had familial ties to the land. This purchase underscores the theme of redemption and the return to one's roots, reflecting God's promise to restore His people to their land.

from my cousin Hanamel
The Hebrew term for "cousin" here is "בֶּן־דּוֹד" (ben-dod), which can also mean a relative or kinsman. Hanamel's offer to sell the field to Jeremiah was in accordance with the Levitical law of redemption (Leviticus 25:25), which allowed a family member to buy back property to keep it within the family. This act of purchasing the field from Hanamel not only fulfilled a legal obligation but also served as a tangible expression of Jeremiah's faith in God's future restoration.

the son of Shallum
Shallum, mentioned here, provides a genealogical link, emphasizing the familial and legal aspects of the transaction. In the broader scriptural context, genealogies often serve to establish identity and continuity, reinforcing the covenantal promises of God to His people. This detail highlights the importance of family and heritage in God's redemptive plan.

and I weighed out for him
The act of weighing out the payment signifies a formal and legal transaction. In ancient times, weighing silver or other forms of currency was a common practice to ensure fairness and accuracy in trade. This detail underscores the legitimacy and seriousness of Jeremiah's purchase, reflecting his commitment to God's instructions despite the seemingly dire circumstances.

seventeen shekels of silver
The specific mention of "seventeen shekels of silver" provides insight into the economic practices of the time. Silver was a standard medium of exchange, and the precise amount indicates a fair market value for the land. This transaction, though modest in monetary terms, carried profound spiritual significance. It symbolized hope and the certainty of God's promises, serving as a testament to Jeremiah's unwavering faith in the face of adversity.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Jeremiah
A prophet called by God to deliver His messages to the people of Judah. In this passage, he acts in obedience to God's command to purchase a field.

2. Hanamel
Jeremiah's cousin, who offers Jeremiah the opportunity to buy his field in Anathoth. This transaction is significant as it symbolizes hope and future restoration.

3. Anathoth
A town in the territory of Benjamin, near Jerusalem. It is Jeremiah's hometown and the location of the field he purchases.

4. Seventeen Shekels of Silver
The price Jeremiah pays for the field, symbolizing a legal and binding transaction. The use of silver indicates the value and seriousness of the purchase.

5. The Babylonian Siege
The context of this event is during the Babylonian siege of Jerusalem, a time of impending destruction and exile for Judah.

Teaching Points

Obedience in Uncertainty
Jeremiah's purchase of the field demonstrates obedience to God even when circumstances seem bleak. We are called to trust and obey God's guidance, even when we do not see immediate results.

Symbol of Hope
The act of buying the field is a prophetic symbol of hope and restoration. In our lives, we should look for signs of God's promises and hold onto hope, even in difficult times.

Faith in Action
Jeremiah's transaction is a tangible expression of faith. Our faith should lead us to take concrete actions that align with God's will and promises.

God's Sovereignty
Despite the impending destruction, God is in control and has a plan for restoration. We can trust in God's sovereignty and His ultimate plan for our lives.

Community and Redemption
The transaction between Jeremiah and Hanamel reflects the importance of community and the redemption of property. We should value our relationships and seek to support and redeem one another in times of need.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Jeremiah's purchase of the field at Anathoth demonstrate his faith in God's promises?

2. In what ways can we show obedience to God in our own lives, especially when facing uncertain or challenging circumstances?

3. How does the concept of property redemption in Leviticus 25:25 relate to the idea of spiritual redemption in the New Testament?

4. What are some modern-day "fields" that God might be calling us to "purchase" as a sign of hope and faith in His promises?

5. How can we encourage and support our community in times of difficulty, reflecting the relationship between Jeremiah and Hanamel?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Leviticus 25:25
This verse discusses the redemption of property by a relative, which provides a legal and cultural background for Jeremiah's purchase of the field.

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

Hebrews 11:1
The concept of faith as assurance of things hoped for connects to Jeremiah's act of buying the field as a demonstration of faith in God's promises.