Jeremiah 15:15 (KJV)

What does Jeremiah 15:15 mean?

Jeremiah 15:15 is a prayer where Jeremiah asks God to remember him, to care for him, and to bring justice against those who are persecuting him, reminding God that he has suffered insult because of his faithfulness. Jeremiah pleads not to be taken away while God is patient with others, highlighting his own pain for being loyal to God.

Jeremiah is speaking directly to God during a time when he is facing strong opposition and ridicule from his own people because he delivers God’s difficult messages. Jeremiah’s words show his deep distress and his hope that God sees his suffering and will act on his behalf. The verse captures a moment of honest struggle, as Jeremiah feels isolated and mistreated for doing what God asked him to do.

The Hebrew behind Jeremiah 15:15

• "LORD" (יְהוָה, YHWH): Jeremiah addresses God by His personal name, showing the close and direct relationship he feels in his plea.
• "Remember" (זָכַר, zakar): This word means more than just recalling; it often carries the sense of God actively caring for or intervening on someone’s behalf.
• "Visit" (פָּקַד, paqad): In this context, "visit" is not just about showing up, but about God taking action—often to bring help or judgment.
• "Revenge" (נָקַם, naqam): This word is about seeking justice or vindication, not personal payback. Jeremiah is asking God to set things right with those who are wronging him.
• "Longsuffering" (אֶרֶךְ אַפַּיִם, erekh appayim): This phrase literally means "slow to anger," describing God’s patience. Jeremiah asks not to be swept away while God is patient with his persecutors.

Why Jeremiah 15:15 matters

• This verse helps clear up the idea that faithful people never struggle with doubt or frustration; Jeremiah’s honest prayer shows that even prophets wrestle with discouragement.
• The verse highlights the tension between God’s patience toward wrongdoers and the suffering of those who try to do what’s right, a theme that runs through Jeremiah’s ministry.
• Understanding the original words for "remember," "visit," and "revenge" shows that Jeremiah is not asking for petty vengeance, but for God’s justice and care in a very personal and difficult situation.