Jeremiah 34:20

I will deliver into the hands of their enemies who seek their lives. Their corpses will become food for the birds of the air and the beasts of the earth.

Study Bible

I will hand them over
This phrase signifies a divine judgment and relinquishment of protection. In the Hebrew context, the verb "hand over" (נָתַן, natan) often implies a transfer of power or control. Historically, this reflects God's sovereignty and justice, where He allows consequences to unfold due to the people's disobedience. It is a sobering reminder of the seriousness of covenant faithfulness and the reality of divine retribution.

to their enemies
The term "enemies" (אֹיֵב, oyev) in Hebrew denotes adversaries or those who are hostile. In the historical context of Jeremiah, this refers to the Babylonians, who were instruments of God's judgment. This highlights the theme of God using even those outside the covenant community to fulfill His purposes, emphasizing His control over all nations and peoples.

who seek their lives
This phrase underscores the intent and determination of the enemies. The Hebrew word for "seek" (בָּקַשׁ, baqash) implies a diligent pursuit. It reflects the dire situation of the people, where their very existence is under threat. This serves as a warning of the consequences of turning away from God, where protection is withdrawn, and adversaries are allowed to prevail.

Their dead bodies
The imagery of "dead bodies" (פֶּגֶר, peger) is stark and graphic, emphasizing the totality of the judgment. In the ancient Near Eastern context, the treatment of the dead was significant, and leaving bodies unburied was a sign of utter disgrace and defeat. This phrase serves as a powerful symbol of the ultimate consequence of rebellion against God.

will become food
The phrase "will become food" (לְמַאֲכָל, lema'akal) indicates a complete and utter defeat. In the biblical context, this is a curse, as seen in Deuteronomy 28:26, where it is listed among the curses for disobedience. It signifies not only physical death but also a lack of honor in death, further emphasizing the severity of divine judgment.

for the birds of the air
The "birds of the air" (ע֣וֹף הַשָּׁמַ֔יִם, oph hashamayim) are often depicted in Scripture as agents of desecration when they consume unburied bodies. This imagery is used to convey the completeness of the judgment and the removal of divine protection. It serves as a vivid reminder of the consequences of forsaking God's covenant.

and the beasts of the earth
The "beasts of the earth" (בְּהֵמַ֥ת הָאָֽרֶץ, behemah ha'aretz) further emphasize the theme of disgrace and abandonment. In the ancient world, being left for scavengers was a fate reserved for the most dishonored. This phrase underscores the totality of the judgment and serves as a call to repentance, highlighting the need for faithfulness to God to avoid such a fate.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Jeremiah
A prophet called by God to deliver messages of judgment and hope to the people of Judah. He is known for his perseverance in the face of opposition.

2. Zedekiah
The last king of Judah, who reigned during the time of Jeremiah. His reign was marked by disobedience to God and eventual downfall.

3. Babylonians (Chaldeans)
The empire that besieged Jerusalem and eventually led to the destruction of the city and the temple, fulfilling God's judgment.

4. Judah
The southern kingdom of Israel, which was under threat due to its disobedience and idolatry.

5. Covenant Breakers
The people of Judah who broke their covenant with God, leading to the severe consequences described in this passage.

Teaching Points

The Consequences of Disobedience
God's warnings through His prophets are serious and should not be taken lightly. Disobedience leads to severe consequences, as seen in the fate of Judah.

The Sovereignty of God
God is in control of nations and their destinies. His judgments are just and serve His greater purpose of righteousness.

The Importance of Keeping Covenants
Breaking covenants with God leads to spiritual and physical ruin. We are called to be faithful to our commitments to God and others.

The Reality of Divine Judgment
The imagery of bodies being left for scavengers is a stark reminder of the reality of God's judgment. It calls us to live in a way that honors God and avoids such outcomes.

Hope in Repentance
While this passage focuses on judgment, the broader context of Jeremiah includes calls to repentance and the promise of restoration for those who turn back to God.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the fate of the covenant breakers in Jeremiah 34:20 serve as a warning for us today in our personal walk with God?

2. In what ways can we see the sovereignty of God at work in the events described in Jeremiah 34:20, and how does this encourage us in our current circumstances?

3. How does the imagery of divine judgment in Jeremiah 34:20 compare to other biblical passages, and what can we learn from these comparisons?

4. What are some modern-day examples of covenant-breaking, and how can we strive to be faithful in our commitments to God and others?

5. How can the themes of judgment and repentance in Jeremiah 34:20 inspire us to share the message of hope and redemption with those around us?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Deuteronomy 28
This chapter outlines the blessings for obedience and curses for disobedience, which are echoed in the judgment pronounced in Jeremiah 34:20.

1 Samuel 17
The imagery of bodies becoming food for birds and beasts is reminiscent of David's words to Goliath, highlighting the theme of divine judgment.

Revelation 19
The imagery of birds feasting on the flesh of the defeated enemies of God is paralleled in the apocalyptic vision of the final judgment.