Jeremiah 2:20 (KJV)

What does Jeremiah 2:20 mean?

Jeremiah 2:20 describes how God freed Israel from oppression in the past, but Israel responded by breaking their promise to obey Him and instead turned to worship other gods, often in places associated with idolatry. The verse uses the image of Israel acting like an unfaithful spouse, seeking other "lovers" on every high hill and under every green tree.

In this verse, God is speaking through the prophet Jeremiah to the people of Judah. The setting is a rebuke: God reminds them that He "broke their yoke" (freed them from slavery or bondage), but instead of remaining loyal, they pursued idol worship in the traditional locations for such practices—on high hills and under green trees. The language is vivid, showing both God's past care and Israel's repeated unfaithfulness.

The Hebrew behind Jeremiah 2:20

• "Yoke" (עֹל, ʿol) and "bands" (מוֹסֵרוֹת, moserot) both refer to restraints used on animals, symbolizing Israel's former bondage. God says He "broke" (שָׁבַר, shavar) and "burst" (נָתַק, nataq) these, emphasizing complete liberation.
• "Transgress" is tied to two Hebrew words in the tags: עָבַר (avar, to pass over or transgress) and עָבַד (avad, to serve). The verse plays on the idea that Israel promised not to "transgress" but actually "served" other gods.
• "Playing the harlot" (זָנָה, zanah) is a strong image in Hebrew, often used for unfaithfulness to God, not just sexual immorality. It highlights the seriousness of turning to idols.

Why Jeremiah 2:20 matters

• The verse clarifies that Israel's unfaithfulness was not a one-time event but a repeated pattern, even after God had rescued them.
• The imagery of "high hill" and "green tree" points to the specific practices of idol worship in ancient times, helping modern readers understand the cultural context.
• Jeremiah 2:20 sets the tone for the rest of the chapter, showing that God's complaint is not just about broken rules but about a broken relationship, using vivid and personal language.