Old Testament
Jeremiah 35:9
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
We haven't built houses to live in, and we have no vineyards, no fields, and no seed.
Compare translations
Nor to build houses for us to dwell in: neither have we vineyard, nor field, nor seed:
What Jeremiah 35:9 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In Jeremiah 35:9, the Rechabites are explaining their lifestyle choices to the prophet Jeremiah. They have chosen not to build houses or cultivate vineyards, fields, or plant seeds. This reflects their commitment to a nomadic lifestyle, which they believe honors their ancestor Jonadab's instructions. Their way of life symbolizes obedience and faithfulness to their family traditions, contrasting with the behaviors of the people of Judah, who have turned away from God's commands. The Rechabites' refusal to settle down and engage in agricultural practices highlights their dedication to a life of simplicity and reliance on God rather than material possessions. This verse serves as a reminder of the importance of adhering to one's values and traditions, even when surrounded by a culture that prioritizes wealth and stability.
How to apply Jeremiah 35:9 to your life
This verse encourages us to reflect on our own commitments and values. Are we living in accordance with our beliefs, or are we swayed by societal pressures? Like the Rechabites, we can choose to prioritize our principles over material gain, fostering a deeper connection with our faith and heritage.
Curated for this public verse page. Jeremiah Summary
Explore more of the Bible
Learn the Bible through its people and places
Get to know the people in Scripture through illustrated stories, and explore the places where they lived and traveled.
Illustrated scene from Noah's story: Noah Is Born (Genesis 5:28–32)
Meet the people of the Bible
Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.
Noah
Photo: Photochrom print, Library of Congress Prints and Photographs Division (LCCN 2002725043). License: Public domain in the United States; Library of Congress states no known restrictions on publication. Source. Location: Nablus and Mount Gerizim, West Bank; print preserved by the Library of Congress. Resized for the web.
Explore the places of the Bible
See where biblical events happened, why each place matters, and what archaeology helps us understand.
Shechem
Where God promised the land to Abram, and where Joshua led Israel to renew the covenant.
Get full access with one subscription
Explore the people and places of the Bible. Read summaries of every book, with images and clear explanations covering every chapter. Access all these features and our Bible study tools with one subscription.
See PlansAsk AI about Jeremiah 35:9
Ask a question about this verse and get a clear answer, with Bible references you can read for yourself.
Every Bible book, explained chapter by chapter
Explore summaries of every book of the Bible, with images and easy-to-understand explanations covering every chapter.
Keep studying Jeremiah 35:9
Related Bible verses
Related topics
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 35:9 mean?
Jeremiah 35:9 describes the Rechabites' commitment to a nomadic lifestyle, as they choose not to build houses or cultivate land. This reflects their obedience to their ancestor Jonadab's instructions and contrasts with the people of Judah who have turned away from God's commands.
What is the significance of the Rechabites in Jeremiah 35:9?
The Rechabites in Jeremiah 35:9 symbolize faithfulness to family traditions and values. Their refusal to settle down and engage in agriculture highlights their dedication to a simple life focused on obedience to their heritage.
What lifestyle do the Rechabites choose in Jeremiah 35:9?
In Jeremiah 35:9, the Rechabites choose a nomadic lifestyle, avoiding building houses or farming. This choice reflects their commitment to living according to their ancestor's teachings and prioritizing their values over material possessions.
How does Jeremiah 35:9 contrast with the people of Judah?
Jeremiah 35:9 contrasts the Rechabites' lifestyle with that of the people of Judah, who have turned away from God's commands. While the Rechabites uphold their traditions, the people of Judah prioritize wealth and stability.
Daily Verse — straight to your inbox
A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.