Old Testament
Jeremiah 7:31
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They have built the high places of Tophet, which is in the valley of the son of Hinnom, to burn their sons and daughters in the fire; something I did not command, nor did it enter my heart.
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And they have built the high places of Tophet, which is in the valley of the son of Hinnom, to burn their sons and their daughters in the fire; which I commanded them not, neither came it into my heart.
What Jeremiah 7:31 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, God expresses His deep disapproval of the practices of the people of Judah, who have built altars in Tophet, a place associated with child sacrifice. This act of burning their children in the fire was not only forbidden by God but was also something He never intended or desired. The valley of Hinnom, where Tophet is located, became a symbol of the extreme idolatry and moral corruption of the people. God emphasizes that such horrific acts were never part of His plan for His people, highlighting the severity of their rebellion against Him. This verse serves as a stark reminder of the consequences of turning away from God's commands and the dangers of adopting practices that are contrary to His will. It illustrates the depth of human depravity when people stray from divine guidance and engage in actions that are abhorrent to God.
How to apply Jeremiah 7:31 to your life
This verse challenges us to examine our own lives for any practices or beliefs that may conflict with God's commands. It encourages us to prioritize our relationship with God and reject any influences that lead us away from His will, ensuring we uphold the sanctity of life and righteousness.
Curated for this public verse page. Jeremiah Summary
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Keep studying Jeremiah 7:31
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Key themes
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 7:31 say about child sacrifice?
Jeremiah 7:31 condemns the practice of child sacrifice that the people of Judah engaged in by burning their sons and daughters in the fire at the high places of Tophet. God expresses His disapproval, stating that such actions were never commanded by Him and were not part of His intentions for His people. This highlights the severity of their rebellion and the moral corruption that had taken root among them.
What is the significance of Tophet in Jeremiah 7:31?
Tophet, mentioned in Jeremiah 7:31, was a site in the valley of Hinnom where the people of Judah built altars for idol worship and child sacrifice. It symbolizes extreme idolatry and the depths of moral decay that the Israelites had reached. God uses this reference to illustrate the abhorrent practices that were occurring, which were in direct violation of His commands and intentions.
How does Jeremiah 7:31 reflect God's feelings about sin?
In Jeremiah 7:31, God reveals His deep disapproval of the sinful practices of His people, particularly child sacrifice. He emphasizes that such acts were never part of His plan or desire for humanity. This verse reflects God's heart for righteousness and His anguish over the rebellion of His people, serving as a warning against turning away from His commands and engaging in actions that are morally corrupt.
What lessons can we learn from Jeremiah 7:31 today?
Jeremiah 7:31 teaches us the importance of aligning our lives with God's commands and rejecting practices that contradict His will. It challenges us to examine our own beliefs and actions, ensuring they uphold the sanctity of life and righteousness. The verse serves as a reminder of the dangers of idolatry and moral corruption, urging us to prioritize our relationship with God and stay true to His guidance.
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