Jeremiah 34:15

Arabic Simplified (الكِتاب المُقَدَّس: التَّرْجَمَةُ العَرَبِيَّةُ المُبَسَّطَةُ)

لَكِنَّكُمُ اليَوْمَ تُبْتُمْ وَعَمِلتُمْ مَا هُوَ صَالِحٌ أمَامِي، إذْ أعتَقَ أحَدُكُمُ الآخَرَ. وَقَدْ قَطَعْتُمْ عَهْدًا أمَامِي فِي البَيْتِ الَّذِي يَحْمِلُ اسْمِي.

What Does This Mean?

In this verse, God is speaking to the people of Judah, reminding them that they had promised to free their slaves, as He had commanded. They made this promise in the temple, but then broke it. The key message is about keeping one's promises and treating others fairly.

Explained for Children

Imagine you promised your friend to share your toys and then you changed your mind. God is like a parent reminding you that you should keep your promises and be kind, just like you promised in front of everyone.

Historical Background

Jeremiah, the prophet, wrote this around 600 B.C., during a critical time when the kingdom of Judah was facing threats from Babylon. God was addressing the kings and people of Judah, who had made a promise to free their slaves but did not keep it, reflecting a cultural setting where slavery was common.

Living It Out Today

Consider a scenario where you promised to help a colleague with a project but later decided not to. This verse reminds us that we should follow through with our commitments and treat others with fairness and respect.

Topics

• justice
• promises
• freedom
• fairness
• covenant
• responsibility

Related Verses

• Leviticus 25:10
• Exodus 21:2
• Luke 4:18
• Matthew 5:33-37
• James 5:12

Frequently Asked Questions

What does the verse mean by 'proclaiming liberty'?

It means setting slaves free, as a demonstration of justice and mercy, which was a command from God to ensure the fair treatment of people.

Why is the house 'called by my name' significant?

It refers to the temple in Jerusalem, where God's presence was believed to reside. Making a covenant there was a serious act, emphasizing the importance of the promise made.

How should we understand breaking such a covenant?

Breaking a covenant, especially one made in God's presence, shows a lack of integrity and trustworthiness, which can have serious spiritual and communal consequences.

What can we learn about responsibility from this verse?

We learn that we should take responsibility for our promises and actions, especially when they affect others, and strive to do what is right and fair.