Jeremiah 34:11

but later they changed their minds and took back the menservants and maidservants they had freed, and they forced them to become slaves again.

Study Bible

but later they changed their minds
This phrase highlights the fickle nature of human commitment and the struggle between divine commands and human desires. The Hebrew root for "changed their minds" is "שׁוּב" (shuv), which means to turn back or return. This word is often used in the context of repentance or turning back to God, but here it is used negatively, indicating a regression to previous sinful behavior. Historically, this reflects the Israelites' repeated pattern of disobedience despite God's clear instructions, showcasing the tension between divine law and human will.

and took back the male and female slaves
The act of taking back the slaves signifies a breach of covenant and a failure to uphold justice and mercy, which are central themes in the prophetic literature. The Hebrew word for "took back" is "שׁוּב" (shuv), the same as "changed their minds," emphasizing the reversal of their initial righteous decision. The mention of "male and female slaves" underscores the comprehensive nature of their sin, affecting all individuals regardless of gender. This reflects the broader societal norms of the time, where slavery was a common practice, yet God called His people to a higher standard of freedom and equality.

they had freed
The initial act of freeing the slaves was in obedience to God's command, reflecting a moment of alignment with divine will. The Hebrew word for "freed" is "שָׁלַח" (shalach), meaning to send away or release. This act was supposed to be a reflection of the Jubilee laws found in Leviticus 25, where slaves were to be released every seventh year. The failure to maintain this freedom highlights the Israelites' struggle to live out God's laws consistently, serving as a reminder of the importance of perseverance in righteousness.

and forced them back into slavery
This phrase illustrates the coercive power dynamics at play and the moral failure of the leaders. The Hebrew word for "forced" is "כָּבַשׁ" (kabash), which means to subdue or bring into bondage. This action is a direct violation of God's covenant, as it disregards the dignity and freedom of individuals. The historical context reveals a society grappling with issues of power, control, and justice, where God's call for liberation and compassion was often overshadowed by human greed and self-interest. This serves as a powerful reminder of the need for integrity and faithfulness in following God's commands.

Persons / Places / Events

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

2. Zedekiah
The last king of Judah, who reigned during the time of Jeremiah. He initially agreed to free the Hebrew slaves but later allowed them to be re-enslaved.

3. The People of Judah
The inhabitants of the southern kingdom, who were under threat from Babylon and had made a covenant to release their Hebrew slaves.

4. Babylonian Threat
The external pressure from the Babylonian empire, which was a significant factor in the decisions made by the leaders of Judah.

5. Covenant of Freedom
An agreement made by the people of Judah to release their Hebrew slaves, which they later broke by re-enslaving them.

Teaching Points

The Importance of Keeping Covenants
God takes covenants seriously, and breaking them has consequences. We must honor our commitments, especially those made before God.

The Danger of Backsliding
The people of Judah initially did the right thing but later reverted to their old ways. We must guard against returning to sinful behaviors after making positive changes.

God's Heart for Justice and Mercy
God's laws regarding slavery were designed to promote justice and mercy. We should reflect God's character by advocating for the oppressed and treating others with fairness.

The Influence of External Pressures
The threat from Babylon influenced Judah's leaders to make and then break their covenant. We must be cautious not to let external pressures lead us away from God's commands.

Repentance and Restoration
Even when we fail, God offers a path to repentance and restoration. We should seek His forgiveness and strive to align our actions with His will.

Bible Study Questions

1. What does the breaking of the covenant in Jeremiah 34:11 reveal about the spiritual state of Judah at that time?

2. How do the laws in Exodus 21 and Deuteronomy 15 regarding Hebrew slaves reflect God's character and His desires for His people?

3. In what ways can external pressures lead us to compromise our commitments to God, and how can we guard against this?

4. How can we apply the principles of justice and mercy in our daily interactions with others?

5. Reflect on a time when you made a commitment to God or others. How did you ensure that you remained faithful to that commitment, and what challenges did you face?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 21:2-6
This passage outlines the laws regarding Hebrew slaves, emphasizing the importance of releasing them after six years of service. The people of Judah were violating this law by re-enslaving those they had freed.

Deuteronomy 15:12-15
Reinforces the command to release Hebrew slaves in the seventh year, highlighting God's desire for justice and mercy.

Isaiah 58:6
Speaks to the true fast that God desires, which includes freeing the oppressed and breaking every yoke, contrasting with the actions of the people in Jeremiah 34:11.