King James Version

What Does Jeremiah 3:11 Mean?

“And the LORD said unto me, The backsliding Israel hath justified herself more than treacherous Judah.”

Context

And it came to pass through the lightness of her whoredom, that she defiled the land, and committed adultery with stones and with stocks. lightness: or, fame

And yet for all this her treacherous sister Judah hath not turned unto me with her whole heart, but feignedly, saith the LORD. feignedly: Heb. in falsehood

And the LORD said unto me, The backsliding Israel hath justified herself more than treacherous Judah.

Go and proclaim these words toward the north, and say, Return, thou backsliding Israel, saith the LORD; and I will not cause mine anger to fall upon you: for I am merciful, saith the LORD, and I will not keep anger for ever.

Only acknowledge thine iniquity, that thou hast transgressed against the LORD thy God, and hast scattered thy ways to the strangers under every green tree, and ye have not obeyed my voice, saith the LORD.

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Commentary

Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers

(11) **Hath justified herself.**—Literally, *hath justified her soul, *has put in a better plea in her defence. The *renegade *was better than the *traitress. *Even open rebellion was better than hypocrisy, as the publicans and sinners in the Gospel story were better than the Pharisees (Matthew 21:31).

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 3:11 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.