In his days Judah shall be saved, and Israel shall dwell safely: and this is his name whereby he shall be called, THE LORD OUR RIGHTEOUSNESS.

JEREMIAH 23:6KJV
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Jeremiah 23:6 (KJV)

What does Jeremiah 23:6 mean?

Jeremiah 23:6 promises that a future leader will bring safety and rescue to both Judah and Israel, and that this leader will be known as “THE LORD OUR RIGHTEOUSNESS.” The verse highlights a time when God’s people will experience security and recognize God as the source of their righteousness.

Jeremiah, speaking to the people of Judah during a time of political turmoil and fear, describes a coming day when both the southern kingdom (Judah) and the northern kingdom (Israel) will be united in safety. The name “THE LORD OUR RIGHTEOUSNESS” signals that the leader’s character and actions will reflect God’s own justice and goodness, offering hope to a nation weary of corrupt rulers.

The Hebrew behind Jeremiah 23:6

  • “saved” (יָשַׁע, yashaʿ): This word means to be delivered or rescued, often from danger or oppression. Here, it points to a deep kind of rescue—more than just physical safety, but a restoration of well-being for Judah.
  • “dwell” (שָׁכַן, shakan): This verb means to settle down or live securely. The promise is not just survival, but a stable, peaceful life for Israel.
  • “safely” (בֶּטַח, betach): This word means in security or confidence, emphasizing that the people’s peace will be genuine, not just temporary or superficial.
  • “RIGHTEOUSNESS” (צִדְקֵנוּ, tsidqenu): This is the key term in the leader’s name, meaning “our righteousness.” It stresses that the people’s right standing and justice come from God, not their own efforts.

Why Jeremiah 23:6 matters

  • Jeremiah 23:6 clarifies that the hope for God’s people is not just political freedom, but a deeper kind of righteousness and security that comes from God Himself.
  • The verse connects to the larger passage where Jeremiah criticizes unfaithful leaders and points to a future, ideal king who will embody God’s character.
  • By using the name “THE LORD OUR RIGHTEOUSNESS,” Jeremiah shifts the focus from human achievement to God’s action, showing that true justice and peace are gifts from God, not earned by the nation.