Old Testament
Jeremiah 35:13
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, referred to as the LORD of hosts and the God of Israel, is expressing His frustration with the people of Judah and Jerusalem.
- Author
- Jeremiah the prophet, with Baruch
- Written
- Around 600 BC
- Genre
- Prophecy
- Original Audience
- Judah before and during the Babylonian exile
This is what the LORD of hosts, the God of Israel, says: Go and tell the people of Judah and the residents of Jerusalem, 'Will you not receive instruction to listen to my words?' declares the LORD.
Thus saith the LORD of hosts, the God of Israel; Go and tell the men of Judah and the inhabitants of Jerusalem, Will ye not receive instruction to hearken to my words? saith the LORD.
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, God, referred to as the LORD of hosts and the God of Israel, is expressing His frustration with the people of Judah and Jerusalem. He sends a message through the prophet Jeremiah, asking them why they refuse to listen to His guidance and teachings. The term 'instruction' emphasizes the importance of following God's words, which are meant to lead them towards a better path. This call to listen is not just a request but a plea for them to open their hearts and minds to divine wisdom. The context suggests that the people have been stubborn and resistant to change, despite the clear messages God has provided. This verse highlights the ongoing relationship between God and His people, where He desires their obedience and willingness to learn from Him. It serves as a reminder that ignoring divine instruction can lead to negative consequences, and that God continually reaches out to guide His people back to righteousness.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Jeremiah 35:13 to your life
This verse encourages us to be open to God's guidance in our lives. We should actively seek to understand His teachings and apply them, rather than ignoring or resisting them. Reflecting on our willingness to listen can lead to spiritual growth and better decision-making.
Curated for this public verse page. Jeremiah Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Jeremiah 35:13 mean?
Jeremiah 35:13 conveys God's frustration with the people of Judah and Jerusalem for their refusal to listen to His guidance. He urges them to receive His instruction and highlights the importance of heeding His words for their well-being.
What is the significance of 'instruction' in Jeremiah 35:13?
The term 'instruction' in Jeremiah 35:13 emphasizes the necessity of following God's teachings. It indicates that God's words are meant to guide His people towards a better path and that ignoring them can lead to negative consequences.
Why does God ask the people to listen in Jeremiah 35:13?
God asks the people to listen in Jeremiah 35:13 because He wants them to receive His guidance and wisdom. This plea underscores His ongoing relationship with them and His desire for them to turn back to righteousness.
How can we apply Jeremiah 35:13 in our lives?
We can apply Jeremiah 35:13 by being open to God's guidance and actively seeking to understand His teachings. Reflecting on our willingness to listen can lead to personal growth and better decision-making.

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.
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