They shall ask the way to Zion with their faces thitherward, saying, Come, and let us join ourselves to the LORD in a perpetual covenant that shall not be forgotten.

JEREMIAH 50:5KJV
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Jeremiah 50:5 (KJV)

What does Jeremiah 50:5 mean?

Jeremiah 50:5 describes people eagerly seeking the way to Zion, turning their faces toward it, and inviting one another to join themselves to the LORD in a lasting covenant that will not be forgotten. The verse pictures a group determined to return to God and commit themselves to Him in a relationship that endures.

In this part of Jeremiah, the prophet is speaking about the future return of exiled Israelites from Babylon. The people are shown asking for directions to Zion (Jerusalem), which represents their longing to be restored to their homeland and to God. Their desire to make a "perpetual covenant" with the LORD highlights a deep commitment to never again forget or abandon their relationship with Him.

The Hebrew behind Jeremiah 50:5

  • "ask" (שָׁאַל, sha'al): This word means to inquire or seek information. Here, it shows the people's active desire to find their way back to Zion, not just wandering but intentionally searching.
  • "way" (דֶּרֶךְ, derek): This means a road or path, but often refers to a way of life or direction. In this verse, it is both a literal route and a symbol of returning to God.
  • "perpetual" (עוֹלָם, olam): This word means everlasting or forever. The covenant they want to make is not temporary but meant to last for all time, stressing the seriousness of their commitment.
  • "covenant" (בְּרִית, berit): This is a formal agreement or promise, often used for God's binding promises with His people. Here, it shows the people's intent to renew their relationship with God in a binding, unbreakable way.

Why Jeremiah 50:5 matters

  • Jeremiah 50:5 clears up that the return from exile is not just about going home, but about a spiritual renewal and a lasting relationship with God.
  • The verse emphasizes the people's active role—they are not passively waiting but are seeking, asking, and encouraging each other to return to the LORD.
  • In the wider context, this verse highlights hope and restoration after judgment, showing that God’s desire is not just to punish but to bring His people back into a faithful relationship with Him.

Where else these words appear

“thitherward” Hebrew H2008 · used in 12 verses

  • Genesis 15:16 But in the fourth generation they shall come hither again: for the iniquity of the Amorites is not yet full.
  • Genesis 44:28 And the one went out from me, and I said, Surely he is torn in pieces; and I saw him not since:
  • 2 Kings 4:35 Then he returned, and walked in the house to and fro; and went up, and stretched himself upon him: and the child sneezed seven times, and the child opened his eyes.

“join” Hebrew H3867 · used in 22 verses

  • Genesis 29:34 And she conceived again, and bare a son; and said, Now this time will my husband be joined unto me, because I have born him three sons: therefore was his name called Levi.
  • Esther 9:27 The Jews ordained, and took upon them, and upon their seed, and upon all such as joined themselves unto them, so as it should not fail, that they would keep these two days according to their writing, and according to their appointed time every year;
  • Ecclesiastes 8:15 Then I commended mirth, because a man hath no better thing under the sun, than to eat, and to drink, and to be merry: for that shall abide with him of his labour the days of his life, which God giveth him under the sun.

“forgotten” Hebrew H7911 · used in 95 verses

  • Genesis 27:45 Until thy brother's anger turn away from thee, and he forget that which thou hast done to him: then I will send, and fetch thee from thence: why should I be deprived also of you both in one day?
  • Psalms 13:1 To the chief Musician, A Psalm of David. How long wilt thou forget me, O LORD? for ever? how long wilt thou hide thy face from me?
  • Proverbs 31:5 Lest they drink, and forget the law, and pervert the judgment of any of the afflicted.