Old Testament

Jeremiah 17:11

The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English

At a Glance

This verse uses the imagery of a partridge sitting on eggs that will never hatch to illustrate the futility of gaining wealth through dishonest means.

Author
Jeremiah the prophet, with Baruch
Written
Around 600 BC
Genre
Prophecy
Original Audience
Judah before and during the Babylonian exile
CBTClear Bible Translation

Like a partridge that sits on eggs but does not hatch them, so is the person who gains wealth dishonestly. In the middle of his life, he will leave it behind, and in the end, he will be a fool.

KJVKing James Version

As the partridge sitteth on eggs, and hatcheth them not; so he that getteth riches, and not by right, shall leave them in the midst of his days, and at his end shall be a fool.

Verse Analysis

Plain-English insight for readers

This verse uses the imagery of a partridge sitting on eggs that will never hatch to illustrate the futility of gaining wealth through dishonest means. Just as the partridge will not see the fruits of its labor, a person who acquires riches unethically will ultimately lose them. The verse warns that such a person will not enjoy their wealth for long and will face foolishness in the end. This reflects a broader biblical principle that emphasizes the importance of integrity and honesty in all pursuits. Wealth gained through deceit may seem appealing, but it leads to emptiness and regret. The message encourages individuals to seek wealth through righteous means, ensuring that their efforts yield lasting and meaningful results, rather than temporary gains that lead to downfall.

Key themes

Related topics

wealth, integrity, foolishness

How to apply Jeremiah 17:11 to your life

This verse serves as a reminder to pursue wealth and success through honest and ethical means. It encourages individuals to reflect on their methods of gaining resources and to prioritize integrity over quick gains. Ultimately, true fulfillment comes from hard work and righteousness.

Curated for this public verse page. Jeremiah Summary

Frequently Asked Questions

Quick, clear answers about this verse

What does Jeremiah 17:11 mean?

Jeremiah 17:11 compares a dishonest person who gains wealth to a partridge sitting on eggs that will never hatch. It illustrates that acquiring riches through unethical means leads to loss and foolishness in the end.

What is the meaning of dishonestly gained wealth in Jeremiah 17:11?

In Jeremiah 17:11, dishonestly gained wealth refers to riches obtained through deceitful or unethical practices. The verse warns that such wealth is ultimately futile and will not bring lasting satisfaction.

How does Jeremiah 17:11 relate to integrity?

Jeremiah 17:11 underscores the value of integrity by showing that wealth gained dishonestly is fleeting and leads to foolishness. It encourages individuals to seek success through honest efforts.

What lesson can we learn from Jeremiah 17:11?

The lesson from Jeremiah 17:11 is to prioritize ethical practices in the pursuit of wealth. It teaches that true fulfillment comes from hard work and integrity rather than quick, dishonest gains.

The Book of Jeremiah
Book Summary

The Book of Jeremiah

Jeremiah 1: The Call of Jeremiah

The words of Jeremiah, son of Hilkiah, a priest from Anathoth in the land of Benjamin, are recorded. The word of the LORD comes to him in the thirteenth year of King Josiah's reign over Judah. It continues to come to him through the reign of King Jehoiakim and until the eleventh year of King Zedekiah, when Jerusalem is carried into captivity. The LORD states that before He formed Jeremiah in the womb, He knew him and ordained him as a prophet to the nations. Jeremiah responds that he cannot speak because he is a child. The LORD commands him not to say he is a child, for he will go where the LORD sends him and speak what the LORD commands.

Premium

Unlock the full Jeremiah summary

Continue reading every chapter — themes, structure, and turning points.

The complete summary of Jeremiah — a chapter-by-chapter breakdown covering all 52 chapters.

What you get

Every chapter of Jeremiah summarized in clear, modern English

How each section connects — narrative flow, key themes, and turning points

Permanent access — read anytime, on any device

Best Value

Best value • Save over 90%

or

One-time purchase • Access anytime

ClearBible summaries are proprietary content and may not be copied, republished, or resold.

Checkout works as a guest. After payment, you create an account to claim your unlock.