King James Version
What Does Jeremiah 2:33 Mean?
“Why trimmest thou thy way to seek love? therefore hast thou also taught the wicked ones thy ways.”
Context
31
O generation, see ye the word of the LORD. Have I been a wilderness unto Israel? a land of darkness? wherefore say my people, We are lords; we will come no more unto thee? We are: Heb. We have dominion
32
Can a maid forget her ornaments, or a bride her attire? yet my people have forgotten me days without number.
33
Why trimmest thou thy way to seek love? therefore hast thou also taught the wicked ones thy ways.
34
Also in thy skirts is found the blood of the souls of the poor innocents: I have not found it by secret search, but upon all these. secret: Heb. digging
35
Yet thou sayest, Because I am innocent, surely his anger shall turn from me. Behold, I will plead with thee, because thou sayest, I have not sinned.
Topics in This Verse
Commentary
Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers(33) **Why trimmest thou thy way . . .?**—The verb is the same as that rendered *“*amend” in Jeremiah 7:3; Jeremiah 7:5, and was probably often on the lips of those who made a show of reformation. Here it is used with a scornful irony, “What means this reform, this show of amendment of thy ways, which leads only to a further indulgence in adulterous love?”
**Hast thou also taught the wicked ones thy ways.**—Better, *hast thou also taught thy ways wickednesses. *The professed change for the better was really for the worse.
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 2:33 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.
Cross-References
Verses related to Jeremiah 2:33
Cross-references from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge