Jeremiah 11:1 (KJV)

What does Jeremiah 11:1 mean?

Jeremiah 11:1 introduces a message that God gave to the prophet Jeremiah, marking the beginning of a new section or prophecy. The verse simply states that the word of the LORD came to Jeremiah, preparing the reader for what God is about to say through him.

This verse sets the scene for the following message, showing that Jeremiah is not speaking on his own but is delivering a direct communication from God. The verse highlights Jeremiah’s role as a prophet, someone chosen to receive and pass on God’s instructions to the people of Judah, especially during a time of crisis and warning.

The Hebrew behind Jeremiah 11:1

• word (דָּבָר, davar): This word often means a message, command, or matter, not just a single word. Here, it signals that what follows is a significant communication from God, not Jeremiah’s own thoughts.
• Jeremiah (יִרְמְיָהוּ, Yirmeyahu): This is the personal name of the prophet, reminding the reader that God’s message is given to a specific individual in a real historical context.
• LORD (יְהוָה, YHWH): This is the personal name of Israel’s God, emphasizing that the message comes from the covenant God, not a generic deity.
• saying (אָמַר, amar): This verb introduces direct speech, showing that what follows is a quotation of God’s own words, not just a summary.

Why Jeremiah 11:1 matters

• Jeremiah 11:1 makes it clear that the authority behind the coming message is God Himself, not Jeremiah’s personal opinion or interpretation.
• The verse signals a transition point, alerting the reader that a new prophecy or instruction is beginning, which helps in understanding the structure of the book.
• By naming Jeremiah and the LORD specifically, the verse roots the message in a real relationship and history, reminding readers that God communicates through chosen individuals in specific times and places.