Jeremiah 34:19

The officials of Judah and Jerusalem, the court officials, the priests, and all the people of the land who passed between the pieces of the calf,

Study Bible

The officials of Judah and Jerusalem
This phrase refers to the leaders and governing authorities of both the southern kingdom of Judah and its capital, Jerusalem. In the Hebrew context, "officials" (Hebrew: שָׂרִים, sarim) often denotes those in positions of power and responsibility. Historically, these leaders were expected to uphold the covenant with God and lead the people in righteousness. Their mention here underscores their accountability in the covenantal breach that Jeremiah is addressing.

The court officials
These individuals were part of the royal court, serving the king and managing the affairs of the kingdom. The Hebrew term for "court officials" (Hebrew: עֲבָדִים, avadim) can also mean "servants," indicating their role in executing the king's commands. Their inclusion highlights the widespread nature of the covenant violation, extending even to those who were supposed to be close advisors to the king.

The priests
The priests held a sacred duty to mediate between God and the people, offering sacrifices and teaching the law. In Hebrew, "priests" (כֹּהֲנִים, kohanim) were expected to be exemplars of holiness and obedience. Their failure to uphold the covenant is particularly grievous, as they were entrusted with maintaining the spiritual integrity of the nation.

All the people of the land
This phrase encompasses the general populace of Judah. The Hebrew term for "people" (עַם, am) signifies the collective community. The inclusion of "all the people" indicates that the covenant breach was not limited to the leaders but was a national issue, affecting every stratum of society.

Who passed between the pieces of the calf
This refers to an ancient covenant-making ritual, where parties would walk between the halves of a sacrificed animal, symbolizing the seriousness of the agreement and the consequences of breaking it. The imagery here is reminiscent of Genesis 15, where God makes a covenant with Abraham. The Hebrew word for "passed" (עָבְרוּ, avru) suggests a deliberate action, emphasizing the solemnity of the covenant they entered. This act was a vivid reminder that breaking the covenant would result in severe consequences, akin to the fate of the divided animal.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Officials of Judah and Jerusalem
These are the leaders and authorities in the southern kingdom of Judah, including those in the capital city, Jerusalem. They held significant political and social influence.

2. Court Officials
These individuals served in the royal court, advising the king and managing the affairs of the kingdom. They were responsible for implementing the king's decrees and maintaining order.

3. Priests
The religious leaders responsible for conducting temple rituals and teaching the Law of Moses. They played a crucial role in the spiritual life of the nation.

4. All the People of the Land
This phrase refers to the general population of Judah, encompassing all social classes and groups.

5. The Pieces of the Calf
This refers to a covenant ritual where a calf was cut in half, and the parties involved would walk between the pieces, symbolizing their commitment to the covenant. This act signified that if they broke the covenant, they would face a fate similar to the divided calf.

Teaching Points

The Seriousness of Covenants
Covenants in the Bible are solemn agreements that involve deep commitment and accountability. Breaking a covenant is not taken lightly and often results in severe consequences.

Leadership Accountability
Leaders, both political and religious, are held to high standards. Their actions can lead a nation towards blessing or judgment. This calls for integrity and faithfulness in leadership roles.

Community Responsibility
The involvement of "all the people of the land" indicates that everyone, not just leaders, is responsible for upholding the covenant. This teaches the importance of communal faithfulness and accountability.

Symbolism of the Calf
The act of passing between the pieces of the calf symbolizes the binding nature of the covenant. It serves as a reminder of the consequences of unfaithfulness and the need for sincere commitment to God.

Reflection on Personal Covenants
Consider the covenants or commitments you have made in your life, whether to God, family, or community. Reflect on your faithfulness to these commitments and seek God's guidance in areas where you may need to improve.

Bible Study Questions

1. What does the act of passing between the pieces of the calf symbolize, and how does it relate to our understanding of covenants today?

2. How can the accountability of leaders in Jeremiah 34:19 inform our expectations of modern-day leaders in both religious and secular contexts?

3. In what ways can we, as a community of believers, ensure that we are collectively upholding our commitments to God?

4. How does the concept of covenant in Jeremiah 34:19 connect to the new covenant established through Jesus Christ?

5. Reflect on a personal commitment or covenant you have made. How can you apply the lessons from Jeremiah 34:19 to strengthen your faithfulness to this commitment?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 15
The covenant between God and Abram, where God passes between the pieces of animals, establishing His promise to Abram. This highlights the seriousness of covenant-making in biblical times.

Exodus 24
The covenant at Mount Sinai, where the people of Israel agree to follow God's laws, illustrating the communal aspect of covenant agreements.

Hebrews 9
Discusses the new covenant through Christ, contrasting the old covenant rituals with the new covenant established by Jesus' sacrifice.