King James Version

What Does Jeremiah 6:13 Mean?

Jeremiah 6:13 in the King James Version says “For from the least of them even unto the greatest of them every one is given to covetousness; and from the prophet even ... — study this verse from Jeremiah chapter 6 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.

For from the least of them even unto the greatest of them every one is given to covetousness; and from the prophet even unto the priest every one dealeth falsely.

Jeremiah 6:13 · KJV


Context

11

Therefore I am full of the fury of the LORD; I am weary with holding in: I will pour it out upon the children abroad, and upon the assembly of young men together: for even the husband with the wife shall be taken, the aged with him that is full of days.

12

And their houses shall be turned unto others, with their fields and wives together: for I will stretch out my hand upon the inhabitants of the land, saith the LORD.

13

For from the least of them even unto the greatest of them every one is given to covetousness; and from the prophet even unto the priest every one dealeth falsely.

14

They have healed also the hurt of the daughter of my people slightly, saying, Peace, peace; when there is no peace. hurt: Heb. bruise, or, breach

15

Were they ashamed when they had committed abomination? nay, they were not at all ashamed, neither could they blush: therefore they shall fall among them that fall: at the time that I visit them they shall be cast down, saith the LORD.


Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
God indicts both religious and civil leaders: 'from the least of them even unto the greatest of them every one is given to covetousness.' The phrase connects prophets and priests with 'falsehood' (Hebrew 'sheqer'—deception, lie). This demonstrates how corruption infiltrates religious leadership when materialism takes root. The pairing of 'covetousness' with 'falsehood' shows how greed inevitably leads to dishonesty. Reformed theology emphasizes that false teaching often has roots in financial motivation (1 Timothy 6:5, 10). When spiritual leaders prioritize gain over truth, they forfeit their calling and mislead God's people.

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Historical & Cultural Context

Pre-exilic prophets consistently condemned religious leaders who prophesied for money (Micah 3:11). Jeremiah faced opposition from false prophets who contradicted his message because it threatened their income and status.

Reflection Questions

  1. How does the connection between covetousness and falsehood help explain many forms of false teaching today?
  2. What safeguards should churches implement to protect spiritual leaders from the corrupting influence of materialism?
  3. How can believers discern when religious leaders are motivated by gain rather than genuine service?

Original Language Analysis

Hebrew · 13 words
כִּ֤י1 of 13
H3588

(by implication) very widely used as a relative conjunction or adverb (as below); often largely modified by other particles annexed

מִקְּטַנָּם֙2 of 13

For from the least

H6996

abbreviated, i.e., diminutive, literally (in quantity, size or number) or figuratively (in age or importance)

וְעַד3 of 13
H5704

as far (or long, or much) as, whether of space (even unto) or time (during, while, until) or degree (equally with)

גְּדוֹלָ֔ם4 of 13

of them even unto the greatest

H1419

great (in any sense); hence, older; also insolent

כֻּלּ֖וֹ5 of 13
H3605

properly, the whole; hence, all, any or every (in the singular only, but often in a plural sense)

בּוֹצֵ֣עַ6 of 13

of them every one is given

H1214

to break off, i.e., (usually) plunder; figuratively, to finish, or (intransitively) stop

בָּ֑צַע7 of 13

to covetousness

H1215

plunder; by extension, gain (usually unjust)

וּמִנָּבִיא֙8 of 13

and from the prophet

H5030

a prophet or (generally) inspired man

וְעַד9 of 13
H5704

as far (or long, or much) as, whether of space (even unto) or time (during, while, until) or degree (equally with)

כֹּהֵ֔ן10 of 13

even unto the priest

H3548

literally one officiating, a priest; also (by courtesy) an acting priest (although a layman)

כֻּלּ֖וֹ11 of 13
H3605

properly, the whole; hence, all, any or every (in the singular only, but often in a plural sense)

עֹ֥שֶׂה12 of 13

every one dealeth

H6213

to do or make, in the broadest sense and widest application

שָּֽׁקֶר׃13 of 13

falsely

H8267

an untruth; by implication, a sham (often adverbial)


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 6:13 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 6:13 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

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