Old Testament

Jeremiah 31:29

The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English

At a Glance

This verse from Jeremiah highlights a significant shift in how people will understand personal responsibility and consequences.

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

"In those days, people will no longer say, 'The parents ate sour grapes, and their children's teeth ache because of it.'"

KJVKing James Version

In those days they shall say no more, The fathers have eaten a sour grape, and the children’s teeth are set on edge.

Verse Analysis

Plain-English insight for readers

This verse from Jeremiah highlights a significant shift in how people will understand personal responsibility and consequences. The saying about parents eating sour grapes and children suffering reflects a common belief that the actions of one generation can unjustly affect the next. However, God promises a new covenant where individuals will be accountable for their own actions, rather than bearing the consequences of their parents' sins. This change signifies a move towards personal responsibility and justice, emphasizing that each person will face the outcomes of their own choices. It reassures the people that they will no longer be trapped in a cycle of blame and inherited guilt, but will have the opportunity for renewal and personal accountability in their relationship with God.

How to apply Jeremiah 31:29 to your life

This verse encourages us to take responsibility for our own actions rather than blaming others for our circumstances. It reminds us that we can break free from negative patterns and make choices that lead to positive outcomes. Embracing personal accountability can lead to growth and healing in our lives.

Curated for this public verse page. Jeremiah Summary

Frequently Asked Questions

Quick, clear answers about this verse

What does Jeremiah 31:29 mean?

Jeremiah 31:29 means that in the future, people will no longer blame their parents for their own problems. Instead, each person will be responsible for their own actions and the consequences that come from them.

What is the significance of the phrase 'sour grapes' in Jeremiah 31:29?

The phrase 'sour grapes' symbolizes the idea that one generation's actions can negatively impact the next. This verse indicates a shift away from that belief, emphasizing personal accountability.

How does Jeremiah 31:29 relate to personal responsibility?

Jeremiah 31:29 emphasizes the importance of personal responsibility by stating that individuals will no longer suffer consequences for their parents' actions. It encourages people to take ownership of their choices.

What themes are present in Jeremiah 31:29?

Key themes in Jeremiah 31:29 include personal responsibility, generational consequences, justice, and renewal. The verse highlights a shift towards individual accountability in one's relationship with 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.

Premium

Unlock the full Jeremiah summary

Continue reading every chapter — themes, structure, and turning points.

The complete summary of Jeremiah — a chapter-by-chapter breakdown covering all 52 chapters.

What you get

Every chapter of Jeremiah summarized in clear, modern English

How each section connects — narrative flow, key themes, and turning points

Permanent access — read anytime, on any device

Best Value

Best value • Save over 90%

or

One-time purchase • Access anytime

ClearBible summaries are proprietary content and may not be copied, republished, or resold.

Checkout works as a guest. After payment, you create an account to claim your unlock.