Jeremiah 44:26

Nevertheless, hear the word of the LORD, all you people of Judah living in Egypt: Behold, I have sworn by My great name, says the LORD, that never again will any man of Judah living in the land of Egypt invoke My name or say, 'As surely as the Lord GOD lives.'

Study Bible

Nevertheless, hear the word of the LORD
This phrase serves as a divine call to attention, emphasizing the authority and importance of the message that follows. The Hebrew word for "hear" is "שָׁמַע" (shama), which implies not just listening but also obeying. In the biblical context, hearing the word of the LORD is a call to action and repentance. It underscores the seriousness of God's communication and the expectation that His people will respond appropriately.

all you Jews living in the land of Egypt
This phrase identifies the audience of the prophecy—Jews who had fled to Egypt after the fall of Jerusalem. Historically, this reflects a period of disobedience and lack of faith, as the Jews sought refuge in Egypt against God's command to remain in Judah. The mention of Egypt is significant, as it symbolizes a return to a place of former bondage and a lack of trust in God's provision and protection.

I have sworn by My great name, says the LORD
The phrase highlights the solemnity and certainty of God's declaration. In Hebrew culture, swearing by one's name, especially God's name, was the highest form of oath, indicating an unbreakable promise. The "great name" of the LORD refers to His character and reputation, which are holy and unchangeable. This underscores the seriousness of the judgment pronounced and the certainty of its fulfillment.

that never again will My name be invoked by the mouth of any man of Judah
This part of the verse indicates a severe judgment—a cessation of the covenant relationship symbolized by invoking God's name. The Hebrew concept of invoking God's name was tied to worship, identity, and blessing. The prohibition signifies a break in the relationship between God and His people due to their persistent idolatry and disobedience.

in all the land of Egypt
This phrase reiterates the geographical context of the judgment. Egypt, a place of historical significance for the Israelites, represents a return to spiritual and physical bondage. The judgment is comprehensive, affecting all Jews in Egypt, highlighting the totality of their rebellion and the extent of God's response.

saying, 'As surely as the Lord GOD lives.'
This phrase was a common oath among the Israelites, affirming the truth of a statement by invoking the living God. The prohibition of this expression signifies a profound spiritual consequence—God's presence and assurance are withdrawn from those who have turned away from Him. It serves as a sobering reminder of the seriousness of idolatry and the importance of faithfulness to God.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Jeremiah
A prophet called by God to deliver His messages to the people of Judah and Jerusalem, often warning them of impending judgment due to their disobedience.

2. The Jews in Egypt
These are the remnants of Judah who fled to Egypt after the fall of Jerusalem, despite God's command to remain in the land He had given them.

3. Egypt
A place of refuge for the Jews who disobeyed God's command to stay in Judah. It symbolizes a return to bondage and reliance on foreign powers instead of God.

4. The LORD (Yahweh)
The covenant-keeping God of Israel, who is addressing His people through Jeremiah, emphasizing His authority and the seriousness of their disobedience.

5. The Oath by God's Name
A solemn declaration by God, highlighting the gravity of the situation and the certainty of His judgment against those who misuse His name.

Teaching Points

The Sanctity of God's Name
God's name is holy and should be revered. Misusing it or invoking it in disobedience leads to serious consequences.

Obedience to God's Commands
Disobedience, especially when God has clearly spoken, leads to judgment. We must heed God's instructions and trust His plans.

The Danger of Seeking Refuge Outside God's Will
Like the Jews who fled to Egypt, seeking security outside of God's provision leads to spiritual and sometimes physical peril.

God's Sovereignty and Authority
God's declarations are final and authoritative. His oaths and promises are unbreakable, and His judgments are just.

The Importance of Repentance
Even in judgment, there is an implicit call to repentance. Turning back to God can restore the relationship and avert further consequences.

Bible Study Questions

1. What does the prohibition against invoking God's name in Egypt teach us about the importance of where and how we worship God today?

2. How can we ensure that we are not seeking refuge or security in "Egypts" of our own making, but rather trusting in God's provision?

3. In what ways can we honor the sanctity of God's name in our daily lives, both in speech and action?

4. How does understanding God's sovereignty and authority impact our response to His commands and guidance?

5. Reflect on a time when you faced consequences for disobedience. How did that experience shape your understanding of repentance and God's mercy?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 20:7
This verse connects to the commandment against taking the Lord's name in vain, emphasizing the sacredness of God's name and the seriousness of invoking it improperly.

Deuteronomy 28:58-59
These verses discuss the consequences of not fearing the glorious and awesome name of the LORD, which parallels the judgment pronounced in Jeremiah 44:26.

Matthew 6:9
Jesus teaches His disciples to hallow God's name, which contrasts with the misuse of God's name by the Jews in Egypt.