Old Testament

Jeremiah 19:5

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 expresses His outrage over the Israelites' worship of Baal, a false god.

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

They have also built the high places of Baal to burn their sons with fire as burnt offerings to Baal, which I did not command, nor did I speak of it, nor did it enter my mind.

KJVKing James Version

They have built also the high places of Baal, to burn their sons with fire for burnt offerings unto Baal, which I commanded not, nor spake it, neither came it into my mind:

Verse Analysis

Plain-English insight for readers

In this verse, God expresses His outrage over the Israelites' worship of Baal, a false god. They have constructed high places, or altars, where they sacrifice their children by fire, believing it will please Baal. God emphasizes that He never commanded such horrific acts, nor did He even think of them. This highlights the severity of their actions and the depth of their rebellion against Him. The act of child sacrifice was not only a violation of God's laws but also a profound moral failure. God’s statement underscores His desire for genuine worship and ethical behavior, contrasting it with the extreme measures the people took in their misguided devotion. This verse serves as a stark reminder of the consequences of turning away from God and the importance of adhering to His commandments rather than following the corrupt practices of surrounding nations. Explore related idolatry.

How to apply Jeremiah 19:5 to your life

This verse challenges us to examine our own lives for any forms of idolatry or misplaced priorities. It reminds us to prioritize our relationship with God and to ensure that our actions align with His teachings, avoiding any practices that contradict His will.

Curated for this public verse page. Jeremiah Summary

Frequently Asked Questions

Quick, clear answers about this verse

What does Jeremiah 19:5 mean?

Jeremiah 19:5 conveys God's anger towards the Israelites for sacrificing their children to Baal. He states that such acts were never commanded by Him and highlights the moral failure of the people in turning to false worship.

What is the significance of child sacrifice in Jeremiah 19:5?

Child sacrifice in Jeremiah 19:5 signifies the extreme measures the Israelites took in their misguided worship of Baal. It illustrates their rebellion against God's commandments and the severity of their idolatry.

What does Baal represent in Jeremiah 19:5?

In Jeremiah 19:5, Baal represents a false god that the Israelites worshipped, leading them to commit horrific acts like child sacrifice. This highlights the dangers of idolatry and the consequences of turning away from God.

How does Jeremiah 19:5 relate to idolatry?

Jeremiah 19:5 directly addresses idolatry by condemning the Israelites for building altars to Baal and engaging in practices that God never approved. It serves as a warning against the dangers of placing anything above God.

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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