◄ Jeremiah 10 ►
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The Sovereignty of God 1Hear the word that the LORD speaks to you, O house of Israel. 2This is what the LORD says: “Do not learn the ways of the nations or be terrified by the signs in the heavens, though the nations themselves are terrified by them. 3For the customs of the peoples are worthless; they cut down a tree from the forest; it is shaped with a chisel by the hands of a craftsman. 4They adorn it with silver and gold and fasten it with hammer and nails, so that it will not totter. 5Like scarecrows in a cucumber patch, their idols cannot speak. They must be carried because they cannot walk. Do not fear them, for they can do no harm, and neither can they do any good.” 6There is none like You, O LORD. You are great, and Your name is mighty in power. 7Who would not fear You, O King of nations? This is Your due. For among all the wise men of the nations, and in all their kingdoms, there is none like You. 8But they are altogether senseless and foolish, instructed by worthless idols made of wood! 9Hammered silver is brought from Tarshish, and gold from Uphaz— the work of a craftsman from the hands of a goldsmith. Their clothes are blue and purple, all fashioned by skilled workers. 10But the LORD is the true God; He is the living God and eternal King. The earth quakes at His wrath, and the nations cannot endure His indignation. 11Thus you are to tell them: “These gods, who have made neither the heavens nor the earth, will perish from this earth and from under these heavens.”a 12The LORD made the earth by His power; He established the world by His wisdom and stretched out the heavens by His understanding. 13When He thunders, the waters in the heavens roar; He causes the clouds to rise from the ends of the earth. He generates the lightning with the rain and brings forth the wind from His storehouses. 14Every man is senseless and devoid of knowledge; every goldsmith is put to shame by his idols. For his molten images are a fraud, and there is no breath in them. 15They are worthless, a work to be mocked. In the time of their punishment they will perish. 16The Portion of Jacob is not like these, for He is the Maker of all things, and Israel is the tribe of His inheritance— the LORD of Hosts is His name. The Coming Captivity of Judah 17Gather up your belongings from this land, you who live under siege. 18For this is what the LORD says: “Behold, at this time I will sling out the inhabitants of the land and bring distress upon them so that they may be captured.” 19Woe to me because of my brokenness; my wound is grievous! But I said, “This is truly my sickness, and I must bear it.” 20My tent is destroyed, and all its ropes are snapped. My sons have departed from me and are no more. I have no one left to pitch my tent or set up my curtains. 21For the shepherds have become senseless; they do not seek the LORD. Therefore they have not prospered, and all their flock is scattered. 22Listen! The sound of a report is coming— a great commotion from the land to the north. It will make the cities of Judah a desolation, a haunt for jackals.b 23I know, O LORD, that a man’s way is not his own; no one who walks directs his own steps. 24Correct me, O LORD, but only with justice— not in Your anger, or You will bring me to nothing. 25Pour out Your wrath on the nations that do not acknowledge You, and on the families that do not call on Your name. For they have devoured Jacob; they have consumed him and finished him off; they have devastated his homeland. Footnotes: 11 a The original text of this verse is in Aramaic. 22 b Or serpents or dragons Berean Standard Bible (BSB) printed 2016, 2020, 2022, 2025 by Bible Hub and Berean.Bible. Produced in cooperation with Bible Hub, Discovery Bible, unfoldingWord, Bible Aquifer, OpenBible.com, and the Berean Bible Translation Committee. This text of God's Word has been dedicated to the public domain. Free downloads and unlimited usage available. See also the Berean Literal Bible and Berean Interlinear Bible. Bible Hub Jeremiah 10 Summary The Sovereignty of God Verses 1–5 – Empty Gods of Wood and Silver The people of Judah are warned not to copy the religious customs of the surrounding nations. Craftsmen chop down a tree, shape it, plate it with silver and gold, prop it upright with nails, and then bow to it. These idols “cannot speak… must be carried” (v. 5). They are powerless and unable to help or harm. Verses 6–10 – The Matchless King of the Nations Jeremiah breaks into praise: “There is none like You, O LORD; You are great, and Your name is mighty in power” (v. 6). Earth’s wisest men are dull next to the living God. The Lord is “the true God; He is the living God and everlasting King” (v. 10). When He is angry, earth trembles. Verses 11 – A Word to the Exiles about Dead Gods In the only Aramaic verse in Jeremiah, the prophet tells Israel to say to the nations: “The gods that did not make the heavens and the earth will perish from the earth and from under these heavens”. The defeat of idols is guaranteed. Verses 12–16 – The Living Maker and His People By His power God “made the earth… established the world by His wisdom” (v. 12). He sends lightning, wind, rain. Idols are “worthless, a work to be mocked” (v. 15), but Israel’s God is “the Portion of Jacob… the Maker of all things” (v. 16). Verses 17–18 – Pack Your Bags, Judgment Is Coming The prophet tells the inhabitants of Jerusalem to gather their belongings. The Lord is about to sling them out of the land and bring distress upon them. Verses 19–22 – A Wounded Shepherd Laments Jeremiah cries, “Woe is me because of my wound” (v. 19). The city lies desolate, its shepherd-leaders have not sought the Lord, and the flock is scattered. Verses 23–25 – Prayer for Just Correction Knowing that “a man’s way is not his own” (v. 23), Jeremiah pleads for measured discipline: “Correct me, O LORD, but only with justice.” He ends by asking God to pour out full wrath on the nations that have devoured Jacob. Jeremiah 10 exposes the stark contrast between the living God and the lifeless idols worshiped by the nations surrounding Israel. The prophet Jeremiah warns the people of Israel about the perils of adopting the idolatrous practices of other nations. This chapter serves as a divine injunction against the idolatry that had begun to infiltrate Israel, urging the people to recognize the sovereignty and unmatched power of God. Historical Horizon Jeremiah ministered in the tense decades leading to Jerusalem’s fall (586 BC). Assyria’s power was fading, Babylon’s star was rising, and Judah sat on the international trade route everyone wanted. Idolatry flourished as kings like Jehoiakim courted pagan alliances. Jeremiah 10 confronts that idolatry head-on while the Babylonian threat looms. Idolatry Practices Exposed • Cutting the tree (v. 3) – Craftsmen in Phoenicia, Egypt, and Mesopotamia favored evergreen trunks for durability. • Overlaying with silver and gold – Thin hammered sheets glued to the wood; examples found at Hazor and Nineveh. • Dressing with violet and purple (v. 9) – Imported dyes signaled status; idol-robes excavated at Ugarit show the same practice. • Fastening with nails – Stability mattered; toppled gods were an omen of national defeat (cf. 1 Samuel 5). Jeremiah calls the whole process a human fantasy that ends in silent statues. Divine Sovereignty and Creation Jeremiah 10:12-13 echoes Genesis 1 and Psalm 104. Lightning, wind, and rain obey God, not Baal. New Testament writers pick up the theme: “All things were made through Him” (John 1:3) and “In Him all things hold together” (Colossians 1:17). Lament and Shepherd Imagery Jeremiah sees himself as a wounded shepherd (vv. 19-21). Bad shepherds ignore the flock (Ezekiel 34). Jesus later claims, “I am the good shepherd” (John 10:11), the answer to the leadership vacuum Jeremiah mourns. Archaeological Glimpses • Carved wooden deities from the 7th century BC found at Ekron match Jeremiah’s description. • Clay and metal idols with silver inlay have been unearthed at Lachish. • A Babylonian “gods-on-wheels” platform, displayed in the Louvre, shows how idols had to be carried (v. 5). These finds confirm Jeremiah’s familiarity with real objects, not mere satire. Scripture Connections • Psalm 115:4-8 – Idols have mouths but cannot speak. • Isaiah 44:9-20 – The same log that cooks dinner is carved into a god. • Acts 17:24-29 – Paul argues on Mars Hill that God is not served by human hands. • Revelation 9:20 – End-times idol worship persists despite judgment. Jeremiah’s words feed a long biblical chorus ridiculing man-made gods. Lessons for Today 1. Guard against modern idols – careers, screens, relationships – anything we prop up and then rely on. 2. Remember the living Creator – storms, seasons, and heartbeats all testify He is still in charge. 3. Accept His loving correction – ask for discipline with justice, not unchecked wrath. 4. Trust the Good Shepherd – human leaders fail, but Christ gathers scattered flocks. Key Hebrew Words Simplified • ’ĕlîl (v. 15) – “worthless thing,” often translated “idol.” • ḥēq (v. 18) – “sling” or “hurl,” picturing violent exile. • mišpāṭ (v. 24) – “justice,” a fair measure rather than consuming rage. Closing Snapshot Jeremiah 10 stages a courtroom drama: mute idols on one side, the speaking Creator on the other. Nations tremble; Judah must choose. The prophet admits his own wound yet finishes with hope that God’s correction, though sharp, is aimed at restoration. Connections to Additional Scriptures Exodus 20:3-4 The Ten Commandments warn against idolatry, reinforcing the message in Jeremiah 10. Isaiah 44:9-20 This passage also critiques the absurdity of idol worship, providing a parallel to Jeremiah's message. 1 Corinthians 8:4-6 Paul discusses the reality of one true God, echoing the themes of God's sovereignty and the futility of idols. Teaching Points The Folly of Idolatry Jeremiah 10:3-5 describes the process of crafting idols, highlighting their lifelessness and inability to act. For the customs of the peoples are worthless; they cut down a tree from the forest; it is shaped with a chisel by the hands of a craftsman (Jeremiah 10:3). This underscores the absurdity of worshiping man-made objects. The Sovereignty of God In contrast to lifeless idols, Jeremiah 10:6-7 declares the unmatched greatness of God. There is none like You, O LORD. You are great, and Your name is mighty in power (Jeremiah 10:6). This emphasizes God's unique power and authority over all creation. The Futility of Idols Jeremiah 10:8-9 further illustrates the foolishness of idol worship, describing them as worthless, a work of mockery (Jeremiah 10:15). This serves as a reminder that idols, no matter how ornate, are ultimately powerless. God as the True Creator Jeremiah 10:10-12 contrasts the living God with idols, affirming His role as the Creator of the universe. But the LORD is the true God; He is the living God and eternal King (Jeremiah 10:10). This highlights God's eternal nature and creative power. Practical Applications Evaluate Personal Idols Reflect on anything in your life that may be taking the place of God. Are there modern idols such as wealth, status, or technology that you prioritize over your relationship with God? Acknowledge God's Sovereignty In daily life, recognize and submit to God's authority, trusting in His power and wisdom above all else. Cultivate True Worship Focus on worshiping God in spirit and truth, as Jesus instructs in John 4:24, rather than being distracted by superficial or materialistic forms of worship. People 1. The House of Israel This refers to the collective people of Israel, God's chosen nation. In Jeremiah 10, they are being warned against adopting the idolatrous practices of the surrounding nations. The Hebrew term for "house" (בֵּית, "beit") signifies a family or household, indicating the entire nation. 2. The Nations These are the pagan nations surrounding Israel, who are described as practicing idolatry. The Hebrew word for "nations" (גּוֹיִם, "goyim") is often used to refer to non-Israelite peoples. 3. Craftsmen These are the individuals who create idols, as mentioned in the context of the futility of idol-making. The Hebrew term for "craftsman" (חָרָשׁ, "charash") refers to a skilled worker or artisan. 4. The King of the Nations This title is used to refer to God, emphasizing His sovereignty over all nations. The Hebrew word for "king" (מֶלֶךְ, "melech") is a common term for a ruler or sovereign. 5. Jacob This name is used to refer to the nation of Israel, as Jacob was the patriarch whose descendants became the twelve tribes of Israel. The Hebrew name "יַעֲקֹב" (Ya'akov) is often used to symbolize the people of Israel. 6. The Shepherds These are the leaders or rulers of the people, who are criticized for their lack of wisdom and guidance. The Hebrew word for "shepherd" (רֹעִים, "ro'im") can also mean leaders or rulers in a metaphorical sense. While the chapter does not provide a detailed list of individual names, it uses these terms to convey messages about idolatry, leadership, and the relationship between God and His people. Places 1. The Land of Israel While not explicitly named in this chapter, the context of Jeremiah's message is directed towards the people of Israel. The chapter addresses the practices and beliefs of the Israelites, contrasting them with those of other nations. 2. The Heavens In Jeremiah 10:2, it says, "Do not learn the way of the nations or be terrified by signs in the heavens, though the nations are terrified by them." The "heavens" here refers to the sky or celestial realm, which was often associated with signs and omens in ancient cultures. 3. The Nations Throughout the chapter, there are references to "the nations" (e.g., Jeremiah 10:2, 10:25). This term is used to describe the Gentile peoples surrounding Israel, who practiced idolatry and other customs that were contrary to the worship of Yahweh. The Hebrew word for nations is "goyim" (גּוֹיִם), which often refers to non-Israelite peoples. Events 1. Warning Against Idolatry (Jeremiah 10:1-5) The chapter begins with a warning to the house of Israel not to adopt the customs of the nations, particularly the practice of idolatry. The text describes how idols are crafted by human hands, emphasizing their impotence. The Hebrew word for "idols" (אֱלִילִים, 'elilim) suggests worthlessness or nothingness. "Do not learn the way of the nations or be terrified by signs in the heavens, though the nations are terrified by them. For the customs of the peoples are worthless; they cut down a tree from the forest; it is shaped with a chisel by the hands of a craftsman." (Jeremiah 10:2-3) 2. The Powerlessness of Idols (Jeremiah 10:6-10) Jeremiah contrasts the lifeless idols with the living God, who is powerful and sovereign. The passage highlights God's uniqueness and the futility of worshiping man-made objects. "There is none like You, O LORD. You are great, and Your name is mighty in power. Who would not fear You, O King of the nations? For it is Your due." (Jeremiah 10:6-7) 3. The Foolishness of Idol Worship (Jeremiah 10:11-15) The prophet declares that the idols will perish, emphasizing their temporary nature. The Hebrew term for "perish" (אָבַד, 'avad) indicates complete destruction or disappearance. "The gods that did not make the heavens and the earth will perish from this earth and from under these heavens." (Jeremiah 10:11) 4. The Sovereignty of God (Jeremiah 10:16) The passage reaffirms the LORD as the Creator and the portion of Jacob, contrasting Him with the false gods. The Hebrew word for "portion" (חֵלֶק, cheleq) signifies an inheritance or share, underscoring the relationship between God and His people. "He who is the Portion of Jacob is not like these, for He is the Maker of all things, and Israel is the tribe of His inheritance—the LORD of Hosts is His name." (Jeremiah 10:16) 5. Impending Judgment (Jeremiah 10:17-22) The text shifts to a warning of impending judgment and exile for Judah. The imagery of gathering belongings suggests preparation for captivity. "Gather up your belongings from this land, you who live under siege. For this is what the LORD says: 'At this time I will hurl out the inhabitants of the land, and I will bring distress upon them, that they may be captured.'" (Jeremiah 10:17-18) 6. Jeremiah’s Prayer (Jeremiah 10:23-25) The chapter concludes with Jeremiah's prayer, acknowledging human inability to direct their own steps and pleading for God's correction rather than wrath. The Hebrew word for "correct" (יָסַר, yasar) implies discipline or instruction. "I know, O LORD, that a man’s way is not his own; no one who walks directs his own steps. Correct me, O LORD, but only with justice—not in Your anger, or You will bring me to nothing." (Jeremiah 10:23-24) Lessons from Jeremiah 10 1. The Folly of Idolatry Jeremiah 10 opens with a clear warning against the futility of idol worship. The prophet reminds us that idols are mere creations of human hands, lacking life and power. As it is written, "Like a scarecrow in a cucumber patch, their idols cannot speak. They must be carried because they cannot walk" (Jeremiah 10:5). This lesson encourages us to place our trust in the living God, who is the Creator of all things, rather than in lifeless objects or worldly distractions. 2. The Sovereignty of God The chapter emphasizes the unmatched sovereignty of Yahweh. Unlike the idols, our God is the true King and Creator. "But the LORD is the true God; He is the living God and eternal King" (Jeremiah 10:10). This truth reassures us that no matter the chaos around us, God is in control, guiding our lives with His perfect wisdom and love. 3. The Power of God's Word Jeremiah highlights the power and authority of God's Word. "He made the earth by His power; He established the world by His wisdom and stretched out the heavens by His understanding" (Jeremiah 10:12). This serves as a reminder that Scripture is not just a book but the living Word of God, capable of transforming lives and guiding us in truth. 4. The Futility of Human Wisdom Human wisdom pales in comparison to God's infinite understanding. Jeremiah points out that "every goldsmith is put to shame by his idols, for his molten images are a lie, and there is no breath in them" (Jeremiah 10:14). This lesson encourages us to seek divine wisdom through prayer and Scripture, rather than relying solely on our limited human perspective. 5. The Call to Awe and Reverence Jeremiah 10 calls us to stand in awe of God's majesty. "When He thunders, the waters in the heavens roar, and He causes the clouds to rise from the ends of the earth" (Jeremiah 10:13). This awe-inspiring imagery invites us to worship God with reverence, acknowledging His greatness and our dependence on Him. 6. The Importance of Discernment The chapter urges us to discern between truth and falsehood. "They are worthless, a work to be mocked" (Jeremiah 10:15). In a world filled with conflicting messages, we are called to test everything against the truth of Scripture, ensuring that our beliefs and actions align with God's will. 7. The Assurance of God's Presence Despite the warnings and judgments, Jeremiah assures us of God's enduring presence. "He who is the Portion of Jacob is not like these, for He is the Maker of all things" (Jeremiah 10:16). This promise offers comfort, reminding us that God is always with us, providing strength and guidance in every circumstance. 8. The Call to Repentance Jeremiah's message is a call to turn away from sin and return to God. The chapter serves as a reminder that repentance is not just a one-time act but a continual turning of our hearts toward God, seeking His forgiveness and grace. 9. The Hope of Restoration Even amidst warnings, there is a promise of hope and restoration. Jeremiah's words remind us that God's ultimate desire is to restore His people. This hope encourages us to persevere in faith, trusting that God is working all things for our good and His glory. 10. The Invitation to Trust Finally, Jeremiah 10 invites us to place our trust fully in God. "No one is like You, O LORD; You are great, and Your name is mighty in power" (Jeremiah 10:6). This lesson calls us to surrender our fears and anxieties, resting in the assurance that God is faithful and His plans for us are good. Topics 1. The Futility of Idols (Jeremiah 10:1-5) This section addresses the worthlessness of idols, contrasting them with the living God. The passage begins with a warning: "Do not learn the way of the nations" (v. 2). The Hebrew word for "idols" (אֱלִילִים, 'elilim) implies things that are worthless or insignificant. The text describes how idols are crafted by human hands and cannot speak or move, emphasizing their impotence. 2. The Greatness of God (Jeremiah 10:6-10) Here, the prophet extols the unmatched greatness of God, declaring, "There is none like You, O LORD" (v. 6). The Hebrew name for God used here is יְהוָה (YHWH), emphasizing His eternal and self-existent nature. The passage contrasts God's power and sovereignty with the lifelessness of idols, affirming that God is the true and living King. 3. The Coming Judgment (Jeremiah 10:11-16) This section predicts the judgment that will come upon those who worship idols. Verse 11, written in Aramaic, states, "The gods that did not make the heavens and the earth will perish from this earth and from under these heavens." The passage underscores the futility of idol worship and the certainty of divine judgment. 4. The Impending Destruction (Jeremiah 10:17-18) The prophet warns of the coming destruction and exile, urging the people to prepare: "Gather up your belongings to leave the land" (v. 17). The Hebrew verb used for "gather" (אָסַף, 'asaph) conveys the urgency of the situation, as the people are called to prepare for imminent displacement. 5. Jeremiah's Lament (Jeremiah 10:19-22) Jeremiah expresses his sorrow over the impending disaster, saying, "Woe to me because of my injury!" (v. 19). The lament reflects the deep personal and communal grief over the destruction that is to come. The Hebrew word for "woe" (אוֹי, 'oy) is an expression of lamentation and distress. 6. A Prayer for Correction (Jeremiah 10:23-25) The chapter concludes with a prayer acknowledging God's sovereignty and seeking His correction: "Correct me, O LORD, but only with justice" (v. 24). The Hebrew word for "correct" (יָסַר, yasar) implies discipline and instruction, highlighting the desire for God's righteous guidance rather than wrathful punishment. Themes 1. The Futility of Idolatry Jeremiah 10:3-5 highlights the worthlessness of idols, describing them as "a scarecrow in a cucumber patch" . The Hebrew word for "idol" (אֱלִיל, 'elil) implies something worthless or insignificant, emphasizing the futility of worshiping man-made objects. 2. The Sovereignty of God In contrast to idols, Jeremiah 10:6-7 declares, "There is none like You, O LORD; You are great, and Your name is mighty in power" . The Hebrew name for God used here, יהוה (YHWH), underscores His eternal and unchanging nature, affirming His supreme authority over all creation. 3. The Wisdom and Power of God Jeremiah 10:12-13 speaks of God's creation of the earth by His power and wisdom: "He made the earth by His power; He established the world by His wisdom" . The Hebrew word for wisdom, חָכְמָה (chokmah), conveys a deep, divine understanding that surpasses human knowledge. 4. The Coming Judgment Jeremiah 10:10 warns of God's impending judgment: "At His wrath the earth quakes, and the nations cannot endure His indignation" . The Hebrew term for wrath, חֵמָה (chemah), indicates a fierce, burning anger, reflecting the seriousness of God's judgment against sin. 5. The Call to Acknowledge God Jeremiah 10:23-24 expresses a plea for guidance and correction: "I know, O LORD, that a man’s way is not his own; no one who walks directs his own steps" . This theme emphasizes human dependence on God for direction and the need for divine correction, using the Hebrew word יָסַר (yasar) for "correct," which implies discipline and instruction. Prayer Points Repentance for Idolatry Pray for forgiveness for any idols we have placed before God, asking for a heart that seeks Him above all else. Recognition of God's Greatness Pray for a deeper understanding and appreciation of God's sovereignty and creative power. Commitment to True Worship Ask God to help us worship Him in spirit and truth, free from distractions and false idols. As we study Jeremiah 10, may we be reminded of the emptiness of idols and the greatness of our God, who alone is worthy of our worship and devotion. Answering Tough Questions 1. Jeremiah 10:3–4: How do we reconcile this passage condemning the practice of decorating a cut tree with modern traditions like Christmas trees? 2. Jeremiah 10:11: Why does the text abruptly shift to Aramaic here, and does this create doubts about its authenticity or translation consistency? 3. Jeremiah 10:12: How can this claim that God “stretched out the heavens” align with scientific cosmology regarding the universe’s expansion? 4. Jeremiah 10:8: Is the accusation that the nations’ wisdom is “worthless” historically accurate considering other advanced civilizations of the time? 5. Jeremiah 10:14–15: Does the portrayal of idols as complete falsehood conflict with other biblical texts that acknowledge spiritual powers behind foreign gods? Bible Study Discussion Questions 1. How does Jeremiah 10:1-5 illustrate the dangers of adopting the practices of other cultures without discerning their alignment with God's commandments? 2. How do verses 6-10 show the distinct difference between the living God and man-made idols? 3. In what ways is God's power and wisdom exhibited in Jeremiah's words in verses 11-16? 4. What can we learn about the consequences of disobedience from the prophecy of exile in verses 17-25? 5. How does Jeremiah's prayer for mercy demonstrate the correct response when we are under God's chastisement? 6. What modern-day idols might we unknowingly worship, and how can we apply the lessons of Jeremiah 10 to guard against this? 7. How does the depiction of God in this chapter influence your understanding of His nature and character? 8. What are some ways that our society may be influenced by the practices and beliefs of other nations, similar to the situation in Jeremiah 10? 9. How can the warnings against idolatry in this chapter be applied to our lives today? 10. How does Jeremiah’s prayer in this chapter inform how we should approach God in times of trouble? 11. Can you recall a time when you felt God's chastisement? How did you respond, and what did you learn from that experience? 12. In what ways can we ensure our worship aligns with God's will, as highlighted in this chapter? 13. How does understanding the contrast between God and idols impact your personal worship? 14. How do you recognize and resist the temptations of false gods in your daily life? 15. How can you apply the principles in Jeremiah 10 to cultivate a healthy fear of God? 16. What can Jeremiah 10 teach us about God's sovereignty and why it's important for our faith? 17. How does the theme of God's wrath against sin in this chapter influence your understanding of sin and repentance? 18. How can you use the principles in Jeremiah 10 to discern true worship in your personal life? 19. How does Jeremiah's prophecy of exile speak to the reality of consequences for our actions today? 20. How can the chapter's depiction of the temporal existence of idols vs. the eternity of God influence our choices and priorities in life? Bible Hub Chapter Summaries and Bible Study Questions