King James Version

What Does Jeremiah 22:29 Mean?

Jeremiah 22:29 in the King James Version says “O earth, earth, earth, hear the word of the LORD. — study this verse from Jeremiah chapter 22 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.

O earth, earth, earth, hear the word of the LORD.

Jeremiah 22:29 · KJV


Context

27

But to the land whereunto they desire to return, thither shall they not return. desire: Heb. lift up their mind

28

Is this man Coniah a despised broken idol? is he a vessel wherein is no pleasure? wherefore are they cast out, he and his seed, and are cast into a land which they know not?

29

O earth, earth, earth, hear the word of the LORD.

30

Thus saith the LORD, Write ye this man childless, a man that shall not prosper in his days: for no man of his seed shall prosper, sitting upon the throne of David, and ruling any more in Judah.


Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
O earth, earth, earth, hear the word of the LORD (אֶרֶץ אֶרֶץ אֶרֶץ שִׁמְעִי דְּבַר־יְהוָה, erets erets erets shim'i d'var-YHWH). The threefold repetition creates urgency and solemnity—compare Isaiah's 'Holy, holy, holy' (Isaiah 6:3) or Jesus's 'Verily, verily' formulas. The prophet summons the earth itself as witness to divine decree, invoking the ancient pattern where heaven and earth serve as covenant witnesses (Deuteronomy 4:26, 30:19). The imperative שִׁמְעִי (shim'i, 'hear!'—feminine singular, addressing the land) echoes the Shema (Deuteronomy 6:4).

This cosmic appeal elevates the pronouncement beyond mere political commentary to theological ultimatum. When human leaders refuse to hear, God summons creation itself as audience. Moses similarly called heaven and earth to witness (Deuteronomy 32:1). The land that vomits out covenant-breakers (Leviticus 18:28) now must hear why. Jesus would later weep that if disciples were silenced, 'the stones would immediately cry out' (Luke 19:40). Creation itself testifies to God's judgments.

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Historical & Cultural Context

This oracle's dramatic introduction marks a climactic moment—the end of the Davidic monarchy's unbroken succession in Jerusalem. For four centuries (since ~1000 BC), David's line had ruled from Jerusalem. This threefold summons announces the dynasty's suspension, requiring the widest possible audience as witness. The solemnity matches the gravity of covenant curse being enacted.

Reflection Questions

  1. What would it mean for creation itself to witness your accountability before God?
  2. How does the threefold repetition emphasize the seriousness of divine pronouncements?
  3. In what areas of life are you refusing to 'hear' where even the earth itself cries out against injustice?

Original Language Analysis

Hebrew · 6 words
אָ֑רֶץ1 of 6

O earth

H776

the earth (at large, or partitively a land)

אָ֑רֶץ2 of 6

O earth

H776

the earth (at large, or partitively a land)

אָ֑רֶץ3 of 6

O earth

H776

the earth (at large, or partitively a land)

שִׁמְעִ֖י4 of 6

hear

H8085

to hear intelligently (often with implication of attention, obedience, etc.; causatively, to tell, etc.)

דְּבַר5 of 6

the word

H1697

a word; by implication, a matter (as spoken of) or thing; adverbially, a cause

יְהוָֽה׃6 of 6

of the LORD

H3068

(the) self-existent or eternal; jeho-vah, jewish national name of god


Study Guide

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 22:29 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 22:29 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

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