Old Testament

Jeremiah 17:2

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

At a Glance

In this verse, the prophet Jeremiah highlights the deep-rooted idolatry among the people of Judah.

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

Even their children remember their altars and groves by the green trees on the high hills.

KJVKing James Version

Whilst their children remember their altars and their groves by the green trees upon the high hills.

Verse Analysis

Plain-English insight for readers

In this verse, the prophet Jeremiah highlights the deep-rooted idolatry among the people of Judah. The mention of children remembering their parents' altars and groves signifies that these practices were not only prevalent but also passed down through generations. The altars and groves, often associated with pagan worship, were located in natural settings, like green trees on high hills, which were common places for worship in ancient cultures. This imagery suggests a strong connection between the people and their idolatrous practices, indicating that even the next generation is influenced by these traditions. The verse serves as a reminder of how cultural and spiritual practices can be ingrained in families, often leading them away from true worship of God. It reflects the challenge of breaking free from inherited sinful behaviors and the importance of guiding future generations towards righteousness.

How to apply Jeremiah 17:2 to your life

This verse encourages us to examine the traditions and practices we pass on to our children. Are they rooted in faith and righteousness, or do they reflect worldly values? We should strive to instill a legacy of true worship and devotion to God in the next generation.

Curated for this public verse page. Jeremiah Summary

Frequently Asked Questions

Quick, clear answers about this verse

What does Jeremiah 17:2 mean?

Jeremiah 17:2 highlights the idolatry of the people of Judah, showing that their children remember the altars and groves used for pagan worship. This indicates that such practices were deeply ingrained in their culture and passed down through generations.

What is the significance of altars and groves in Jeremiah 17:2?

The altars and groves mentioned in Jeremiah 17:2 represent places of pagan worship that were common in ancient cultures. Their presence signifies the people's departure from true worship of God and their engagement in idolatrous practices.

How does Jeremiah 17:2 relate to generational influence?

Jeremiah 17:2 illustrates how the idolatrous practices of one generation can influence the next, as children remember their parents' altars and groves. This serves as a reminder of the importance of guiding future generations towards righteous values.

What does the imagery of green trees and high hills mean in this verse?

The imagery of green trees and high hills in Jeremiah 17:2 reflects the natural settings where pagan worship occurred. These locations were often chosen for their beauty and prominence, emphasizing the connection between the people and their idolatrous practices.

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.

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