Thus saith the LORD, which giveth the sun for a light by day, and the ordinances of the moon and of the stars for a light by night, which divideth the sea when the waves thereof roar; The LORD of hosts is his name:
JEREMIAH 31:35KJVWhat does Jeremiah 31:35 mean?
Jeremiah 31:35 describes God as the one who created and controls the natural world, giving the sun to light the day and setting the patterns for the moon and stars to light the night, and who has power over the sea and its roaring waves. This verse emphasizes God's authority and reliability by pointing to His control over creation.
In this verse, the prophet Jeremiah is speaking to the people of Israel, relaying a message from God during a time of national uncertainty and exile. By highlighting God's power over the sun, moon, stars, and sea, Jeremiah reassures the people that God's promises are as dependable as the ongoing order of creation itself.
The Hebrew behind Jeremiah 31:35
- "LORD" (יְהוָה, YHWH): This is the personal name of God in the Hebrew Bible, often translated as "the LORD." Its use here underlines that the message comes from the God who made a covenant with Israel.
- "Ordinances" (חֻקּוֹת, ḥuqqot): This word means decrees or fixed orders, referring to the set patterns or laws that govern the moon and stars. It highlights the idea that the regularity of the cosmos is established by God's command.
- "Divideth" (רָגַע, ragaʿ): This verb means to calm or subdue, often used for settling or quieting the sea. Here, it points to God's ability to control even the most chaotic parts of creation, like the roaring sea.
- "Hosts" (צְבָאוֹת, tsevaʾot): This word means "armies" or "multitudes," and when paired with "LORD," it emphasizes God's supreme command over all heavenly and earthly forces.
Why Jeremiah 31:35 matters
- This verse clears up any idea that God's promises are uncertain by tying them to the unchanging patterns of nature, which people saw as reliable and constant.
- Jeremiah 31:35 is part of a larger passage where God promises restoration and a new covenant with Israel, so the verse supports the idea that God's commitment to His people is as sure as the laws of creation.
- By naming God as "the LORD of hosts," the verse reminds readers that the same God who commands the universe is the one making these promises, reinforcing trust in His power and faithfulness.