King James Version

What Does Jeremiah 6:30 Mean?

Jeremiah 6:30 in the King James Version says “Reprobate silver shall men call them, because the LORD hath rejected them. Reprobate: or, Refuse silver” — study this verse from Jeremiah chapter 6 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.

“Reprobate silver shall men call them, because the LORD hath rejected them. Reprobate: or, Refuse silver”

Jeremiah 6:30 · KJV

Context

28

They are all grievous revolters, walking with slanders: they are brass and iron; they are all corrupters.

29

The bellows are burned, the lead is consumed of the fire ; the founder melteth in vain: for the wicked are not plucked away.

30

Reprobate silver shall men call them, because the LORD hath rejected them. Reprobate: or, Refuse silver

Read Jeremiah 6 full chapter

Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
The conclusion of the metallurgical metaphor: 'Reprobate silver shall men call them, because the LORD hath rejected them.' The term 'reprobate' (Hebrew 'ma'as'—rejected, refused) indicates silver that fails purity standards. Despite refining attempts, the material proves worthless and must be discarded. The phrase 'the LORD hath rejected them' is the ultimate verdict. This doesn't mean individuals cannot repent, but that corporately, this generation has been weighed and found wanting. Reformed theology carefully distinguishes between corporate judgment on nations/generations and God's particular election of individuals unto salvation. The rejected silver metaphor shows that outward covenant identity without inward transformation leads to divine rejection.

KJV Study — Public Domain

Historical & Cultural Context

Corporate rejection of Judah led to exile and loss of nationhood, though a faithful remnant was preserved. This pattern of corporate judgment with remnant preservation recurs throughout redemptive history.

Reflection Questions

  1. How do we understand corporate judgment while maintaining hope for individual salvation?
  2. What is the difference between being rejected as worthless silver and being elect unto salvation?
  3. How should the possibility of divine rejection motivate examination of our spiritual authenticity?

Original Language Analysis

Hebrew · 8 words
כֶּ֣סֶף1 of 8

“silver”

H3701

silver (from its pale color); by implication, money

מָאַ֥ס2 of 8

“Reprobate”

H3988

to spurn; also (intransitively) to disappear

קָרְא֖וּ3 of 8

“shall men call”

H7121

to call out to (i.e., properly, address by name, but used in a wide variety of applications)

לָהֶ֑ם4 of 8
H0
כִּֽי5 of 8
H3588

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

מָאַ֥ס6 of 8

“Reprobate”

H3988

to spurn; also (intransitively) to disappear

יְהוָ֖ה7 of 8

“them because the LORD”

H3068

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

בָּהֶֽם׃8 of 8
H0

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 6:30 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 6:30 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

Hosea 9:17Psalms 119:119Isaiah 1:22Isaiah 1:25Romans 11:1Lamentations 5:22

Test Your Knowledge

Jeremiah 6 QuizTest your knowledge of this chapterJeremiah Book QuizComprehensive quiz for the entire book

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