Jeremiah 23:31 (KJV)

What does Jeremiah 23:31 mean?

Jeremiah 23:31 says that God is opposed to prophets who claim to speak for Him but actually use their own words, pretending that their message comes from the LORD. The verse warns against those who misuse their authority by saying “He saith” when God has not truly spoken to them.

In this verse, God is speaking through Jeremiah to the people of Judah, addressing the problem of false prophets during a time of national crisis. These prophets were misleading people by claiming divine inspiration for their own ideas or opinions. The verse highlights God’s concern for truthfulness in those who claim to represent Him and the danger of putting words in God’s mouth.

The Hebrew behind Jeremiah 23:31

• “prophets” (נָבִיא, navi’): This word refers to those who claim to speak on behalf of God. Here, it points specifically to people who have taken on this role without genuine authority or calling.
• “use” (לָקַח, laqach): This verb means “to take” or “to use.” In this context, it suggests the prophets are taking up their tongues—using their speech—as a tool to falsely claim God’s message.
• “tongues” (לָשׁוֹן, lashon): This refers to their speech or language. The verse criticizes prophets who rely on their own words rather than a true message from God.
• “say” (נְאֻם, neum): This word is often used to introduce a divine declaration. Here, it shows the seriousness of falsely claiming, “He saith,” as if quoting God directly.

Why Jeremiah 23:31 matters

• Jeremiah 23:31 clarifies that not everyone who claims to speak for God is truly delivering His message, warning listeners to be discerning.
• The verse emphasizes the seriousness of misusing spiritual authority, especially by putting words in God’s mouth.
• In the wider context of Jeremiah 23, this verse helps explain why God is so critical of the religious leaders of the time—they were misleading people and undermining trust in genuine prophecy.