Old Testament
Jeremiah 32:14
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The LORD of hosts, the God of Israel, says: Take these deeds — both the sealed copy and the open copy — and store them in a clay jar so they will be preserved for a long time.
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Thus saith the LORD of hosts, the God of Israel; Take these evidences, this evidence of the purchase, both which is sealed, and this evidence which is open; and put them in an earthen vessel, that they may continue many days.
What Jeremiah 32:14 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, God instructs Jeremiah to take the legal documents related to a property purchase and store them in a clay jar. This act symbolizes the importance of preserving evidence and the promises of God, even in difficult times. The sealed copy represents a formal agreement, while the open copy serves as a public record. By storing these documents, Jeremiah is ensuring that future generations will have proof of ownership, which reflects God's faithfulness to His people. This moment occurs during a time of impending judgment, highlighting the hope and assurance that God provides, even when circumstances seem dire. The clay jar signifies the fragility of human life and the need to safeguard what is valuable. Overall, this verse emphasizes the significance of maintaining records of God's promises and the importance of faith in His plans, regardless of present challenges.
How to apply Jeremiah 32:14 to your life
We can learn from this verse the importance of documenting and preserving our commitments and experiences of faith. Keeping records of God's promises in our lives can strengthen our faith and provide encouragement during tough times. It reminds us to trust in God's plans.
Curated for this public verse page. Jeremiah Summary
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Illustrated scene from Jeremiah's story: Jeremiah Buys a Field (Jeremiah 32:1–15)
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Jeremiah
Photo: Zeev Stein / PikiWiki Israel, via Wikimedia Commons. License: CC BY 2.5. Source. Location: Tel Beer Sheva National Park, Israel. Resized for the web.
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Beersheba
Where Abraham and Isaac dug wells and worshiped the LORD, at the southern edge of the land.
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Keep studying Jeremiah 32:14
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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 32:14 mean?
Jeremiah 32:14 means that God instructed Jeremiah to preserve legal documents related to a property purchase by storing them in a clay jar. This act symbolizes the importance of keeping records of God's promises and the hope He provides, even during difficult times.
What is the significance of the clay jar in Jeremiah 32:14?
The clay jar in Jeremiah 32:14 signifies the fragility of human life and the need to protect valuable things. It represents a safe place for important documents, highlighting the importance of preserving evidence of God's faithfulness.
What does the sealed copy represent in Jeremiah 32:14?
In Jeremiah 32:14, the sealed copy represents a formal agreement or contract regarding the property purchase. It emphasizes the seriousness and binding nature of the commitment made.
What is the context of Jeremiah 32:14?
Jeremiah 32:14 occurs during a time of impending judgment for Israel, where God reassures His people through the act of preserving the property documents. It highlights the hope and assurance of God's promises despite challenging circumstances.
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