Jeremiah 14:19

Have You rejected Judah completely? Do You despise Zion? Why have You stricken us so that we are beyond healing? We hoped for peace, but no good has come, and for the time of healing, but there was only terror.

Study Bible

Have You completely rejected Judah?
The phrase "completely rejected" in Hebrew is "ma'as," which conveys a sense of loathing or casting away. This reflects the deep anguish and desperation of the people of Judah, feeling utterly abandoned by God. Historically, Judah was the southern kingdom, and its rejection would have been a devastating blow to the Israelites, who saw themselves as God's chosen people. This question is rhetorical, expressing the fear that their covenant relationship with God has been severed due to their persistent disobedience.

Do You despise Zion?
"Zion" is often used to refer to Jerusalem, the city of David, and the spiritual heart of Israel. The term "despise" in Hebrew is "ga'al," indicating a strong aversion or disdain. Zion holds a special place in biblical history as the site of the Temple, the dwelling place of God's presence. The idea that God might despise Zion is a profound expression of the people's fear that their sins have led to divine abandonment, a theme that resonates throughout the prophetic literature.

Why have You struck us so that we cannot be healed?
The imagery of being "struck" suggests a divine punishment or affliction. The Hebrew word "nakah" implies a blow or wound, often used in the context of God's judgment. The inability to be "healed" underscores the severity of their condition, both physically and spiritually. This reflects the consequences of their persistent sin and rebellion against God, leading to a situation where human efforts at restoration seem futile without divine intervention.

We hoped for peace, but no good has come
The word "peace" is translated from the Hebrew "shalom," which encompasses not just the absence of conflict but a state of completeness and well-being. The expectation of "good" reflects a longing for God's favor and blessing. However, the reality of their situation is starkly different, highlighting the disconnect between their hopes and their current experience. This serves as a poignant reminder of the consequences of turning away from God's commandments.

for a time of healing, but there was only terror
The "time of healing" suggests a period anticipated for restoration and recovery. The Hebrew word "rapha" means to heal or make whole, often used in the context of God's redemptive work. Instead, they encounter "terror," a word that conveys fear and dread. This juxtaposition emphasizes the gravity of their plight and the urgent need for repentance and divine mercy. It serves as a call to return to God, acknowledging that true healing and peace can only come from Him.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Judah
The southern kingdom of Israel, consisting of the tribes of Judah and Benjamin. It was the center of Jewish worship and culture, with Jerusalem as its capital.

2. Zion
Another name for Jerusalem, often used to represent the spiritual and religious heart of the Jewish people.

3. Jeremiah
A prophet called by God to deliver messages of warning and hope to the people of Judah. He is known for his lamentations and deep emotional connection to his people.

4. God's Judgment
The context of this verse is a period of divine judgment upon Judah due to their persistent idolatry and disobedience to God's covenant.

5. The Hope for Peace
The people of Judah were hoping for deliverance and restoration, but instead faced continued suffering and terror.

Teaching Points

The Reality of Divine Judgment
God's judgment is a response to persistent sin and rebellion. It serves as a call to repentance and a reminder of His holiness.

The Pain of Unfulfilled Expectations
The people of Judah hoped for peace and healing, yet faced terror. This teaches us about the consequences of misplaced hope when it is not grounded in obedience to God.

The Importance of Genuine Repentance
True healing and restoration come from turning back to God with sincere hearts. Superficial repentance does not lead to peace.

God's Faithfulness Amidst Judgment
Even in judgment, God remains faithful to His covenant. His ultimate desire is for His people to return to Him.

The Role of Lament in Faith
Lament is a valid expression of faith, allowing believers to bring their pain and confusion before God, trusting in His ultimate justice and mercy.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the context of Jeremiah 14:19 help us understand the nature of God's judgment on Judah?

2. In what ways can we relate to the unfulfilled expectations of the people of Judah in our own lives?

3. How does the theme of lament in Jeremiah 14:19 encourage us to approach God with our own struggles and disappointments?

4. What steps can we take to ensure our repentance is genuine and leads to true peace and healing?

5. How can we find hope in God's faithfulness even when we face difficult circumstances or divine discipline?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Lamentations 2:13
This verse echoes the theme of lament and the deep sorrow over the destruction of Jerusalem, similar to Jeremiah's lament in 14:19.

Isaiah 1:4-5
These verses describe the sinful state of Judah and the resulting divine judgment, providing a backdrop to the situation Jeremiah addresses.

Psalm 79:5
This psalm reflects a cry to God in the face of destruction and a plea for His mercy, paralleling the sentiments expressed in Jeremiah 14:19.