Old Testament
Jeremiah 31:21
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
"Set up road markers and put up guideposts for yourself. Pay attention to the highway — the road you traveled before. Come back, virgin Israel! Return to your cities."
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Set thee up waymarks, make thee high heaps: set thine heart toward the highway, even the way which thou wentest: turn again, O virgin of Israel, turn again to these thy cities.
What Jeremiah 31:21 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, God is urging the people of Israel to remember their past and to find their way back to Him. The imagery of setting up road markers and guideposts symbolizes the need for direction and clarity in their journey. The 'highway' represents the path they once followed, which is a call to return to their roots and faith. The term 'virgin Israel' signifies purity and a time when they were devoted to God. This verse emphasizes the importance of reflection and recognizing the need to return to a place of spiritual safety and community. It serves as a reminder that even when one strays, there is always an opportunity to come back and restore the relationship with God and the community.
How to apply Jeremiah 31:21 to your life
This verse encourages us to reflect on our spiritual journey and identify the markers that guide us back to our faith. We should actively seek ways to reconnect with our beliefs and community, ensuring we do not lose sight of our spiritual path.
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 31:21 mean?
Jeremiah 31:21 calls the people of Israel to remember their past and return to God. It uses the imagery of road markers to symbolize the need for direction and clarity in their spiritual journey.
What is the significance of 'virgin Israel' in Jeremiah 31:21?
The term 'virgin Israel' in Jeremiah 31:21 signifies a time of purity and devotion to God. It highlights the longing for a return to a state of faithfulness and community.
What does the highway represent in Jeremiah 31:21?
In Jeremiah 31:21, the highway represents the spiritual path that the people of Israel once followed. It serves as a reminder to return to their roots and reconnect with their faith.
How can I apply Jeremiah 31:21 to my life?
You can apply Jeremiah 31:21 by reflecting on your own spiritual journey and identifying ways to reconnect with your beliefs and community. It encourages you to seek direction and clarity in your faith.
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