King James Version

What Does Jeremiah 12:6 Mean?

“For even thy brethren, and the house of thy father, even they have dealt treacherously with thee; yea, they have called a multitude after thee: believe them not, though they speak fair words unto thee. they have called: or, they cried after thee fully fair: Heb. good things”

Context

How long shall the land mourn, and the herbs of every field wither, for the wickedness of them that dwell therein? the beasts are consumed, and the birds; because they said, He shall not see our last end.

If thou hast run with the footmen, and they have wearied thee, then how canst thou contend with horses? and if in the land of peace, wherein thou trustedst, they wearied thee, then how wilt thou do in the swelling of Jordan?

For even thy brethren, and the house of thy father, even they have dealt treacherously with thee; yea, they have called a multitude after thee: believe them not, though they speak fair words unto thee. they have called: or, they cried after thee fully fair: Heb. good things

I have forsaken mine house, I have left mine heritage; I have given the dearly beloved of my soul into the hand of her enemies. the dearly: Heb. the love

Mine heritage is unto me as a lion in the forest; it crieth out against me: therefore have I hated it. crieth: or, yelleth: Heb. giveth out his voice

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Topics in This Verse

Faith

Commentary

Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers

(6) **Thy brethren.**—It is not certain whether we are to think actually of the sons of the same father, or only of the men of Anathoth (Jeremiah 11:23), as belonging to the same section of the priesthood. The language of Jeremiah 9:5 favours the more literal rendering. In any case, it is interesting to note that the proverb which our Lord more than once quotes, “A prophet is not without honour save in his own country and in his own house” (Matthew 13:57; Luke 4:24; John 4:44), probably had its origin in the sad experience of Jeremiah. **They have called a multitude after thee.**—Better, *have shouted a full shout *(in our English phrase, “have raised a hue and cry”) *after thee.*

Charles John Ellicott (1819–1905). Public Domain.

Historical Context

This verse is found in the book of Jeremiah. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.

Theological Significance

Jeremiah 12:6 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.