Old Testament
Jeremiah 29:28
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After all, he sent a message to us here in Babylon saying: This exile will be long. Build houses and settle in. Plant gardens and eat what they produce.'"
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For therefore he sent unto us in Babylon, saying, This captivity is long: build ye houses, and dwell in them; and plant gardens, and eat the fruit of them.
What Jeremiah 29:28 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, the prophet Jeremiah conveys a message from God to the exiles in Babylon. He emphasizes that their time in captivity will be prolonged, urging them to adapt to their new environment. Instead of despairing, they are encouraged to build homes, settle down, and cultivate gardens. This advice reflects a call to embrace their situation and make the best of it, suggesting that they should not only survive but thrive in their current circumstances. The message is one of hope and resilience, indicating that even in difficult times, life should continue, and they should find ways to sustain themselves and their families. This guidance serves as a reminder that God is still present and active in their lives, even in exile, and that they should look forward to the future with a sense of purpose and community.
How to apply Jeremiah 29:28 to your life
In our own lives, we may face situations that feel like exile or captivity. This verse encourages us to make the best of our circumstances, to build our lives, and to find ways to thrive even when things are tough. Embrace your current situation and seek growth.
Curated for this public verse page. Jeremiah Summary
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At a Glance — the Book of Jeremiah
- Author
- Jeremiah the prophet, with Baruch
- Written
- Around 600 BC
- Genre
- Prophecy
- Original Audience
- Judah before and during the Babylonian exile
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Jeremiah 29:28 mean?
Jeremiah 29:28 conveys God's message to the exiles in Babylon, indicating that their captivity will be lengthy. It encourages them to settle down, build homes, and cultivate gardens, promoting resilience and adaptation in their challenging circumstances.
What is the significance of building houses in Jeremiah 29:28?
Building houses in Jeremiah 29:28 symbolizes the need for the exiles to establish stability and a sense of community in a foreign land. It reflects God's encouragement for them to make the best of their situation and find ways to thrive despite their captivity.
What does the phrase 'plant gardens' mean in Jeremiah 29:28?
The phrase 'plant gardens' in Jeremiah 29:28 suggests that the exiles should actively engage in nurturing their environment and providing for themselves. It emphasizes the importance of self-sufficiency and finding ways to sustain life even in difficult times.
What is the overall message of Jeremiah 29:28?
The overall message of Jeremiah 29:28 is one of hope and resilience. It encourages the exiles to adapt to their circumstances, build their lives, and look forward to the future, reminding them that God is still present in their struggles.
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