Old Testament
Jeremiah 17:22
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, God instructs the people of Israel to observe the Sabbath by refraining from carrying burdens or doing any work.
- Author
- Jeremiah the prophet, with Baruch
- Written
- Around 600 BC
- Genre
- Prophecy
- Original Audience
- Judah before and during the Babylonian exile
Don't carry loads out of your houses on the Sabbath. Don't do any work at all. Keep the Sabbath day holy, just as I commanded your ancestors.
Neither carry forth a burden out of your houses on the sabbath day, neither do ye any work, but hallow ye the sabbath day, as I commanded your fathers.
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, God instructs the people of Israel to observe the Sabbath by refraining from carrying burdens or doing any work. The Sabbath is a day set apart for rest and spiritual reflection, honoring the covenant between God and His people. This command emphasizes the importance of dedicating time to rest and worship, as it was established since the time of their ancestors. By keeping the Sabbath holy, the Israelites are reminded of their identity as God's chosen people and their need for spiritual renewal. The act of resting on this day serves as a reminder of God's creation and His provision, allowing individuals to step back from their daily routines and focus on their relationship with Him. This command not only promotes physical rest but also spiritual rejuvenation, reinforcing the idea that God desires a relationship with His people that includes time for reflection and worship.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Jeremiah 17:22 to your life
To apply this verse today, set aside time each week for rest and spiritual reflection. Avoid work and distractions, focusing instead on your relationship with God. Use this time to recharge physically and spiritually, honoring the principle of the Sabbath in your life.
Curated for this public verse page. Jeremiah Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Jeremiah 17:22 mean?
Jeremiah 17:22 instructs the Israelites to observe the Sabbath by not carrying burdens or doing any work. This emphasizes the importance of rest and spiritual reflection as a way to honor their covenant with God.
What is the significance of the Sabbath in Jeremiah 17:22?
The Sabbath in Jeremiah 17:22 is significant as a day set apart for rest and worship, reminding the Israelites of their identity as God's chosen people and their need for spiritual renewal.
How can I apply Jeremiah 17:22 in my life?
To apply Jeremiah 17:22, set aside a specific time each week for rest and spiritual reflection, avoiding work and distractions to focus on your relationship with God.
What does 'carrying burdens' refer to in Jeremiah 17:22?
'Carrying burdens' in Jeremiah 17:22 refers to engaging in work or tasks that distract from the purpose of the Sabbath, which is to rest and focus on spiritual matters.

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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