Jeremiah 1:10

KJV

See, I have this day set thee over the nations and over the kingdoms, to root out, and to pull down, and to destroy, and to throw down, to build, and to plant.

KJV (with Strong's)

See {H7200}, I have this day {H3117} set {H6485} thee over the nations {H1471} and over the kingdoms {H4467}, to root out {H5428}, and to pull down {H5422}, and to destroy {H6}, and to throw down {H2040}, to build {H1129}, and to plant {H5193}.

Complete Jewish Bible

Today I have placed you over nations and kingdoms to uproot and to tear down, to destroy and to demolish, to build and to plant."

Berean Standard Bible

See, I have appointed you today over nations and kingdoms to uproot and tear down, to destroy and overthrow, to build and plant.”

American Standard Version

see, I have this day set thee over the nations and over the kingdoms, to pluck up and to break down and to destroy and to overthrow, to build and to plant.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Jeremiah 1:10 stands as the divine commission for the prophet Jeremiah, articulating the immense scope and dual nature of his ministry. God declares that Jeremiah is appointed with authority "over the nations and over the kingdoms," not in a political sense, but as a spiritual mouthpiece whose words would carry the weight of divine decree. This authority encompasses both a destructive mandate—"to root out, and to pull down, and to destroy, and to throw down"—against the idolatry, sin, and rebellion of Judah and surrounding nations, and a constructive mandate—"to build, and to plant"—foresha-dowing future restoration, repentance, and the re-establishment of God's people and purposes. The verse powerfully encapsulates God's absolute sovereignty over all earthly powers and His ultimate redemptive plan, even through the necessary process of judgment.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Jeremiah 1:10 is the climactic statement of Jeremiah's prophetic call, following directly from God's personal revelation to him. In [Jeremiah 1:4-5](/jeremiah/1-4 "Jeremiah's Divine Call and Pre-ordination"), the Lord declares Jeremiah's pre-natal consecration as a prophet to the nations. Jeremiah's initial protest of his youth and inability to speak is met with divine assurance in [Jeremiah 1:7-8](/jeremiah/1-7 "God's Assurance to Jeremiah"). Crucially, [Jeremiah 1:9](/jeremiah/1-9 "God Touches Jeremiah's Mouth") describes God touching Jeremiah's mouth, placing His words directly into him, thereby empowering him for the formidable task. Verse 10 then outlines the specific, comprehensive, and divinely empowered mission that these words will accomplish, setting the stage for the entire prophetic book, which details the fulfillment of both the destructive and constructive aspects of this commission. The subsequent visions of the almond tree and the boiling pot in [Jeremiah 1:11-16](/jeremiah/1-11 "Visions Confirming Jeremiah's Commission") further illustrate the certainty and nature of the coming judgment.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** Jeremiah was called to prophesy during a tumultuous period in Judah's history, spanning approximately 627-586 BCE. This era witnessed the decline of the mighty Assyrian Empire and the meteoric rise of Babylon, which would eventually conquer Judah and lead to the Babylonian exile. Jeremiah's ministry overlapped with the reigns of Josiah, Jehoiakim, and Zedekiah. During this time, Judah was steeped in widespread idolatry, social injustice, and political corruption, despite King Josiah's earlier reforms. The people often sought alliances with foreign powers rather than trusting in the Lord, and false prophets offered comforting but deceptive messages of peace. Jeremiah's message, therefore, was often a stark and unpopular call to repentance, warning of impending divine judgment through foreign invasion. Culturally, prophets in the ancient Near East served as divine messengers, often challenging the status quo and speaking truth to power, a role Jeremiah fully embodied, albeit with immense personal suffering.
* **Key Themes:** Jeremiah 1:10 introduces several foundational themes that permeate the entire book of Jeremiah. Foremost is the theme of **Divine Sovereignty**, as God unequivocally declares His authority over "nations and kingdoms," demonstrating that human political powers are ultimately subject to His will. This verse also establishes the theme of **Prophetic Authority and Responsibility**, showing that Jeremiah's words are not merely human utterances but divinely empowered decrees with tangible effects. The dual nature of the commission—"to root out, and to pull down, and to destroy, and to throw down" contrasted with "to build, and to plant"—highlights the theme of **Judgment and Restoration**. While much of Jeremiah's prophecy focuses on the necessary judgment for Judah's covenant unfaithfulness, the ultimate goal is always redemptive, pointing towards a future of hope and renewal, as seen in later promises of a new covenant in [Jeremiah 31:31-34](/jeremiah/31-31 "The New Covenant Promised"). This tension between destruction and rebuilding underscores God's **Covenant Faithfulness**, where judgment serves to purify and restore His people to a right relationship with Him.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **Nations (Hebrew, _gôwy'_):** This word (H1471) refers to a foreign nation, often implying a Gentile people, but can also denote a general "people." In Jeremiah 1:10, its plural usage ("nations") alongside "kingdoms" emphasizes the universal scope of Jeremiah's prophetic authority, extending beyond Judah to all surrounding geopolitical entities. It underscores that God's plan and judgment are not confined to His chosen people but encompass the entire world.
* **Root out (Hebrew, _nâthash'_):** This verb (H5428) means to tear away, to pluck up, or to root out, often used in the context of removing plants or people from their land. It signifies a complete and forceful removal or destruction. In Jeremiah's commission, it vividly portrays the divine judgment that would uproot established systems, idolatrous practices, and even the people from their homeland due to their sin, indicating a thorough and irreversible act of dismantling.
* **Build (Hebrew, _bânâh'_):** This primitive root (H1129) means to construct, establish, or repair, both literally and figuratively. It can also imply obtaining children or setting something up. In contrast to the preceding destructive verbs, "to build" signifies God's ultimate intention for restoration, re-establishment, and the creation of new, righteous structures and communities. It points to the hope that even after severe judgment, God's purpose is to bring forth new life and order.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"See, I have this day set thee over the nations and over the kingdoms":** This opening clause is a powerful declaration of divine appointment and authority. "See" (H7200, _râʼâh_) is an imperative, drawing immediate attention to the profound statement that follows. "This day" (H3117, _yôwm_) emphasizes the immediacy and present reality of the divine commission, making it a definitive moment in Jeremiah's life. The phrase "set thee over" (H6485, _pâqad_) signifies God's sovereign act of appointing Jeremiah, not as a political ruler, but as a spiritual authority whose prophetic words, inspired by God, would determine the fate of entire nations and their ruling powers. This highlights God's ultimate control over human history and political destinies.
* **"to root out, and to pull down, and to destroy, and to throw down":** These four verbs represent the destructive aspect of Jeremiah's ministry. "To root out" (H5428, _nâthash_) implies tearing up from the very foundation, like a plant. "To pull down" (H5422, _nâthats_) suggests demolishing structures. "To destroy" (H6, _ʼâbad_) indicates utter ruin or perishing. "To throw down" (H2040, _hâraç_) means to break in pieces or overthrow. Together, these verbs paint a comprehensive picture of the severe judgment that would come upon Judah and other nations due to their rebellion and idolatry, signifying the dismantling of corrupted systems, false worship, and unrighteous societies.
* **"to build, and to plant":** These two verbs represent the constructive and restorative aspect of Jeremiah's commission, offering a counterpoint to the preceding four. "To build" (H1129, _bânâh_) signifies the establishment of new structures, communities, and a renewed relationship with God. "To plant" (H5193, _nâṭaʻ_) evokes the image of new growth, flourishing, and re-establishment in the land after the period of desolation. This pairing reveals God's ultimate redemptive purpose: that even through judgment, His long-term plan is to bring about renewal, hope, and the re-creation of a faithful people. The sequence is crucial: destruction of sin and corruption must precede true and lasting restoration.

#### Literary Devices
Jeremiah 1:10 is rich in literary devices that amplify its profound message. The most prominent is **Merism**, where two contrasting parts or extremes are used to represent the whole. Here, the four destructive verbs ("root out," "pull down," "destroy," "throw down") followed by the two constructive verbs ("build," "plant") encompass the entire spectrum of God's work through Jeremiah—from utter desolation to complete restoration. This pairing also functions as powerful **Metaphor**, drawing on agricultural and architectural imagery to describe spiritual and national processes. "Rooting out" and "planting" evoke the idea of a farmer tending a field, removing weeds and sowing good seed, while "pulling down" and "building" suggest the work of a master builder, demolishing old, unstable structures to erect new, sound ones. The phrase "over the nations and over the kingdoms" employs **Hyperbole** to emphasize the extraordinary, divinely-granted authority of Jeremiah, transcending typical human limitations and underscoring God's universal sovereignty. Finally, the entire verse serves as a **Divine Commission**, a formal declaration of a prophet's calling and the specific tasks assigned to him by God, establishing the framework for Jeremiah's entire ministry.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Jeremiah 1:10 is a profound theological statement on God's absolute sovereignty and the nature of His engagement with humanity. It reveals that God is not merely a deity concerned with one nation, but the supreme ruler over all "nations and kingdoms," orchestrating their rise and fall according to His divine purpose. This verse dismantles any notion of human autonomy apart from God's ultimate will, demonstrating that even the most powerful empires are subject to His word. Furthermore, it underscores the principle that divine judgment, while severe, is often a necessary precursor to true spiritual and national renewal. God's ultimate desire is not merely destruction but the purification and restoration of His people, a theme that resonates throughout biblical history and prophetic literature. The authority granted to Jeremiah, though exercised through words, highlights the potent, transformative power of God's spoken word to effect both demolition and reconstruction in the world.

* [Isaiah 58:12](/isaiah/58-12 "Rebuilding Ancient Ruins")
* [Ezekiel 36:33-36](/ezekiel/36-33 "God's Promise to Rebuild Israel")
* [Daniel 2:21](/daniel/2-21 "God's Sovereignty Over Kingdoms")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Jeremiah 1:10 offers profound insights for believers today, reminding us that God remains sovereign over all earthly powers and that His purposes encompass both necessary judgment and ultimate restoration. Just as Jeremiah was called to speak uncomfortable truths, we too are commissioned to be agents of God's truth in a world often resistant to it. This may involve confronting sin in our own lives, challenging societal injustices, or speaking prophetically into cultural narratives that contradict God's word. The dual nature of Jeremiah's call—to "root out" and "pull down" before "building" and "planting"—teaches us that true spiritual growth and societal transformation often require a prior process of dismantling what is corrupt or contrary to God's will. This can be painful, demanding courage and discernment, but it is essential for genuine renewal. Ultimately, this verse instills hope, assuring us that even in times of apparent destruction or chaos, God's long-term plan is always redemptive, aiming to build up and establish His kingdom. We are called to participate in this divine work, trusting in the power of His word to bring about both conviction and new life.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what areas of my life or community do I see a need for God to "root out" and "pull down" before He can "build" and "plant"?**
* **How can I, like Jeremiah, courageously speak God's truth, even when it is unpopular or challenging to those around me?**
* **What does Jeremiah 1:10 teach me about God's sovereignty over global events and political powers, and how does this impact my prayers and perspective?**
* **How can I actively participate in God's work of "building" and "planting" in my sphere of influence, contributing to spiritual growth and restoration?**

### FAQ

**Was Jeremiah given political power by this verse?**

Answer: No, Jeremiah was not given political power in the sense of ruling nations or commanding armies. The phrase "set thee over the nations and over the kingdoms" signifies a profound spiritual and prophetic authority. Jeremiah's power was in his words, which were God's words. As God's mouthpiece, his prophecies—warnings of judgment and promises of restoration—would have real, tangible effects on the destinies of nations and kingdoms, even though he wielded no earthly scepter or sword. His authority was derived directly from God's sovereignty, making his pronouncements effective instruments of divine will, as seen in the subsequent unfolding of historical events in the book of [Jeremiah](/jeremiah "The Book of Jeremiah").

**How does this verse relate to God's ultimate purpose for humanity?**

Answer: Jeremiah 1:10 reveals God's ultimate purpose for humanity by demonstrating His active involvement in human history and His commitment to both justice and restoration. The destructive verbs ("root out," "pull down," "destroy," "throw down") signify God's intolerance for sin, idolatry, and rebellion, which hinder true human flourishing and relationship with Him. These actions clear the ground. The constructive verbs ("build," "plant") then reveal God's desire to establish a righteous, flourishing community that lives in covenant with Him. This dual process reflects God's overarching plan to redeem humanity from the consequences of sin and to establish His kingdom of righteousness and peace, ultimately fulfilled in Christ. It shows that even through judgment, God's long-term intention is always redemptive and life-giving, aiming for a renewed creation.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Jeremiah 1:10 finds its ultimate and most profound fulfillment in the person and work of Jesus Christ. While Jeremiah was set "over the nations and over the kingdoms" through his prophetic word, Jesus Christ is the King of kings and Lord of lords, possessing inherent and eternal authority over all creation ([Colossians 1:16-17](/colossians/1-16 "Christ's Supremacy Over Creation")). His mission perfectly embodies the dual mandate of "rooting out" and "building." Jesus came to "root out" and "pull down" the kingdom of darkness, sin, and death, decisively triumphing over Satan and his works through His crucifixion and resurrection ([Colossians 2:15](/colossians/2-15 "Christ's Triumph Over Principalities")). He exposed and dismantled the false religious systems and hypocritical practices that had corrupted true worship, effectively "destroying" the power of sin in the lives of believers ([Romans 6:6](/romans/6-6 "Crucifying the Old Self")). Simultaneously, Christ came "to build" His church, establishing a new spiritual temple not made with human hands ([Ephesians 2:20-22](/ephesians/2-20 "The Church as a Holy Temple")). He "plants" His people into His kingdom, bringing new life and spiritual growth through the regenerative power of the Holy Spirit ([John 3:5-8](/john/3-5 "Born of Water and Spirit")). The Great Commission, "Go therefore and make disciples of all nations" ([Matthew 28:19](/matthew/28-19 "The Great Commission")), is a direct extension of this divine authority to build and plant God's kingdom globally, a mission that continues until Christ's return.

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Jeremiah 31:28

And it shall come to pass, [that] like as I have watched over them, to pluck up, and to break down, and to throw down, and to destroy, and to afflict; so will I watch over them, to build, and to plant, saith the LORD.

2 Corinthians 10:4

(For the weapons of our warfare [are] not carnal, but mighty through God to the pulling down of strong holds;)

2 Corinthians 10:5

Casting down imaginations, and every high thing that exalteth itself against the knowledge of God, and bringing into captivity every thought to the obedience of Christ;

Isaiah 44:26

That confirmeth the word of his servant, and performeth the counsel of his messengers; that saith to Jerusalem, Thou shalt be inhabited; and to the cities of Judah, Ye shall be built, and I will raise up the decayed places thereof:

Isaiah 44:28

That saith of Cyrus, [He is] my shepherd, and shall perform all my pleasure: even saying to Jerusalem, Thou shalt be built; and to the temple, Thy foundation shall be laid.

Jeremiah 24:6

For I will set mine eyes upon them for good, and I will bring them again to this land: and I will build them, and not pull [them] down; and I will plant them, and not pluck [them] up.

Ezekiel 36:36

Then the heathen that are left round about you shall know that I the LORD build the ruined [places, and] plant that that was desolate: I the LORD have spoken [it], and I will do [it].