Jeremiah 2:29 (KJV)

What does Jeremiah 2:29 mean?

Jeremiah 2:29 shows God questioning why the people argue or complain against Him when, in fact, they have all broken His commands. The verse makes clear that the LORD sees their accusations as empty because they themselves are guilty of wrongdoing.

In this verse, God is speaking through the prophet Jeremiah to the people of Judah. The setting is one where the people are facing trouble and seem to be blaming God or trying to justify themselves before Him. God responds by pointing out that everyone has "transgressed"—meaning they have crossed the line or rebelled against Him—so their complaints have no real basis.

The Hebrew behind Jeremiah 2:29

• plead (רִיב, riv): This word often means to argue, contend, or bring a legal case. Here, it suggests the people are trying to dispute with God, almost as if they are putting Him on trial.
• transgressed (פָּשַׁע, pasha‘): This word means to rebel or break away from authority. It is stronger than just making a mistake; it points to a willful breaking of God’s law.
• saith (נְאֻם, ne’um): This is a formal declaration word, often used to mark a solemn or official statement from God.
• LORD (יְהוָה, YHWH): This is God’s personal name, emphasizing His covenant relationship with Israel and His authority to judge their actions.

Why Jeremiah 2:29 matters

• Jeremiah 2:29 clarifies that God is not ignoring the people's complaints, but He sees through them to the real issue—their own unfaithfulness.
• The verse highlights the seriousness of "transgression" as active rebellion, not just accidental wrongdoing, which deepens the sense of accountability.
• This verse fits into the wider passage where God is laying out His case against Israel, showing that their troubles are not random but connected to their choices.