The phrase "Two Evils Committed by Israel" refers to a specific indictment made by the prophet Jeremiah against the people of Israel, as recorded in the Book of Jeremiah. This phrase encapsulates a profound spiritual and moral failure on the part of the Israelites, highlighting their abandonment of God and the pursuit of idolatry. The passage is found in Jeremiah 2:13, where the prophet conveys God's lament over Israel's actions.

Biblical Context

Jeremiah 2:13 states: "For My people have committed two evils: They have forsaken Me, the fountain of living water, and they have dug their own cisterns—broken cisterns that cannot hold water." This verse is part of a larger narrative where God, through Jeremiah, is addressing the spiritual apostasy of Israel. The imagery used is vivid and symbolic, contrasting the life-giving sustenance provided by God with the inadequate and futile efforts of the people to find fulfillment elsewhere.

The First Evil: Forsaking God

The first evil committed by Israel is their forsaking of God, described as "the fountain of living water." In biblical symbolism, water often represents life, sustenance, and purification. God, as the source of living water, signifies His role as the ultimate provider and sustainer of life. By turning away from God, the Israelites rejected the very source of their spiritual vitality and well-being. This act of forsaking God is seen as a profound betrayal, given the covenant relationship established between God and His people.

The Second Evil: Digging Broken Cisterns

The second evil involves the Israelites' attempt to replace God with their own creations, described as "broken cisterns that cannot hold water." Cisterns were man-made reservoirs used to collect and store water, essential in the arid climate of the ancient Near East. However, the cisterns mentioned here are "broken," symbolizing the futility and insufficiency of the idols and false gods that Israel pursued. These broken cisterns represent the false security and empty promises of idolatry, which ultimately fail to provide the spiritual nourishment and protection that only God can offer.

Theological Implications

The two evils highlight a recurring theme in the prophetic literature: the danger of idolatry and the consequences of abandoning the true God. This passage serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of faithfulness to God and the futility of seeking fulfillment outside of His provision. The imagery of living water versus broken cisterns underscores the contrast between divine sufficiency and human inadequacy.

Historical and Cultural Background

During Jeremiah's time, Israel was plagued by political instability and spiritual decline. The people often turned to the gods of surrounding nations, seeking alliances and security through means contrary to their covenant with Yahweh. This syncretism and reliance on foreign powers were seen as acts of unfaithfulness, leading to the prophetic call for repentance and a return to exclusive worship of the Lord.

Relevance for Today

The message of the "Two Evils Committed by Israel" continues to resonate with believers today, serving as a caution against the allure of modern-day idols and the temptation to seek satisfaction apart from God. It calls for a renewed commitment to God as the sole source of spiritual life and fulfillment, urging believers to trust in His provision and remain faithful to His covenant.