Old Testament
Jeremiah 2:20
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 reminds the people of Israel that He freed them from oppression and bondage, symbolized by breaking their yoke and chains.
- Author
- Jeremiah the prophet, with Baruch
- Written
- Around 600 BC
- Genre
- Prophecy
- Original Audience
- Judah before and during the Babylonian exile
Long ago I broke your yoke and snapped your chains. You said, 'I will not transgress!' But then on every high hill and under every green tree, you wandered, playing the harlot.
For of old time I have broken thy yoke, and burst thy bands; and thou saidst, I will not transgress; when upon every high hill and under every green tree thou wanderest, playing the harlot.
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, God reminds the people of Israel that He freed them from oppression and bondage, symbolized by breaking their yoke and chains. Despite this liberation, the people declared they would not sin against Him. However, they continued to stray from His ways, engaging in idolatry and unfaithfulness, represented by wandering on high hills and under trees, which were common places for pagan worship. This imagery highlights their betrayal and infidelity to God, as they chose to pursue false gods instead of remaining faithful to Him. The verse serves as a poignant reminder of the tendency to forget God's deliverance and to turn away from His commands, despite our promises to remain loyal.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Jeremiah 2:20 to your life
This verse encourages us to reflect on our own commitments to God. Just as Israel promised faithfulness but strayed, we too can be tempted to wander from our promises. We should actively seek to remain faithful and avoid distractions that lead us away from our relationship with God.
Curated for this public verse page. Jeremiah Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Jeremiah 2:20 mean?
Jeremiah 2:20 means that God freed the Israelites from oppression, but despite their promises not to sin, they turned to idolatry and unfaithfulness. The verse highlights their betrayal by engaging in pagan worship in places like high hills and under trees.
What is the significance of the yoke and chains in Jeremiah 2:20?
The yoke and chains symbolize the oppression and bondage that God broke for the Israelites. This imagery represents their liberation from slavery and the freedom to follow God, which they ultimately rejected.
What does 'playing the harlot' refer to in Jeremiah 2:20?
'Playing the harlot' in Jeremiah 2:20 refers to the Israelites' unfaithfulness to God by engaging in idolatry. It illustrates their betrayal as they pursued false gods instead of remaining loyal to their covenant with Him.
How does Jeremiah 2:20 relate to faithfulness?
Jeremiah 2:20 relates to faithfulness by showing how the Israelites promised to remain loyal to God but instead strayed into idolatry. It serves as a reminder of the importance of keeping our commitments to God and avoiding distractions.
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