King James Version
What Does Jeremiah 35:12 Mean?
“Then came the word of the LORD unto Jeremiah, saying,”
Jeremiah 35:12 · KJV
Context
10
But we have dwelt in tents, and have obeyed, and done according to all that Jonadab our father commanded us.
11
But it came to pass, when Nebuchadrezzar king of Babylon came up into the land, that we said, Come, and let us go to Jerusalem for fear of the army of the Chaldeans, and for fear of the army of the Syrians: so we dwell at Jerusalem.
12
Then came the word of the LORD unto Jeremiah, saying,
13
Thus saith the LORD of hosts, the God of Israel; Go and tell the men of Judah and the inhabitants of Jerusalem, Will ye not receive instruction to hearken to my words? saith the LORD.
14
The words of Jonadab the son of Rechab, that he commanded his sons not to drink wine, are performed; for unto this day they drink none, but obey their father's commandment: notwithstanding I have spoken unto you, rising early and speaking; but ye hearkened not unto me.
Commentary
KJV Study CommentaryThen came the word of the LORD unto Jeremiah (וַיְהִי דְבַר־יְהוָה אֶל־יִרְמְיָהוּ vayehi d'var-Yahweh el-Yirmeyahu)—The formulaic prophetic introduction marks a divine oracle. The דָּבָר (davar, word) of Yahweh isn't mere information but performative speech that creates reality, judges nations, and accomplishes God's purposes (Isaiah 55:11).
This transitional verse pivots from the Rechabites' testimony (vv. 1-11) to God's application (vv. 13-19). The object lesson complete, God now interprets its meaning: the Rechabites' fidelity to Jonadab will magnify Judah's infidelity to Yahweh. The same prophetic word that blessed the obedient Rechabites (vv. 18-19) will curse the disobedient covenant people (v. 17)—one oracle, two opposite outcomes, depending on covenant response.
This transitional verse pivots from the Rechabites' testimony (vv. 1-11) to God's application (vv. 13-19). The object lesson complete, God now interprets its meaning: the Rechabites' fidelity to Jonadab will magnify Judah's infidelity to Yahweh. The same prophetic word that blessed the obedient Rechabites (vv. 18-19) will curse the disobedient covenant people (v. 17)—one oracle, two opposite outcomes, depending on covenant response.
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Historical & Cultural Context
This prophetic word came during Jehoiakim's reign (609-598 BC), a period of flagrant covenant violation when the king burned Jeremiah's scroll (chapter 36), murdered prophets (26:20-23), and pursued pro-Egyptian policies contrary to God's directive. Against this backdrop of rebellion, the Rechabites' obedience shone brilliantly.
Reflection Questions
- Do you approach Scripture as mere religious information, or as God's living word that judges your heart and demands response?
- How does your reaction to God's word—whether obedience like the Rechabites or resistance like Jehoiakim—determine whether you receive blessing or curse?
- What makes the difference between hearing the same biblical message and responding with either repentance or rebellion?
Original Language Analysis
Hebrew · 6 wordsוַֽיְהִי֙1 of 6
H1961to exist, i.e., be or become, come to pass (always emphatic, and not a mere copula or auxiliary)
דְּבַר2 of 6
“Then came the word”
H1697a word; by implication, a matter (as spoken of) or thing; adverbially, a cause
יְהוָ֔ה3 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 35:12 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.