Jeremiah 13:11

KJV

For as the girdle cleaveth to the loins of a man, so have I caused to cleave unto me the whole house of Israel and the whole house of Judah, saith the LORD; that they might be unto me for a people, and for a name, and for a praise, and for a glory: but they would not hear.

KJV (with Strong's)

For as the girdle {H232} cleaveth {H1692} to the loins {H4975} of a man {H376}, so have I caused to cleave {H1692} unto me the whole house {H1004} of Israel {H3478} and the whole house {H1004} of Judah {H3063}, saith {H5002} the LORD {H3068}; that they might be unto me for a people {H5971}, and for a name {H8034}, and for a praise {H8416}, and for a glory {H8597}: but they would not hear {H8085}.

Complete Jewish Bible

For just as a loincloth clings to a man's body, I made the whole house of Isra'el and the whole house of Y'hudah cling to me,' says ADONAI, 'so that they could be my people, building me a name and becoming for me a source of praise and honor. But they would not listen.

Berean Standard Bible

For just as a loincloth clings to a man’s waist, so I have made the whole house of Israel and the whole house of Judah cling to Me, declares the LORD, so that they might be My people for My renown and praise and glory. But they did not listen.

American Standard Version

For as the girdle cleaveth to the loins of a man, so have I caused to cleave unto me the whole house of Israel and the whole house of Judah, saith Jehovah; that they may be unto me for a people, and for a name, and for a praise, and for a glory: but they would not hear.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Jeremiah 13:11 serves as the interpretive culmination of the parable of the rotten linen girdle, vividly illustrating God’s profound desire for an intimate, inseparable relationship with the whole house of Israel and Judah. It reveals His divine purpose for them to be a people who bring Him renown, praise, and glory before the nations. Tragically, the verse concludes with the heartbreaking reality of their persistent rebellion and refusal to listen to His voice, foreshadowing the inevitable judgment and spiritual decay that resulted from their disobedience.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse provides the direct theological explanation for the preceding object lesson of the linen girdle found in [Jeremiah 13:1-10](/jeremiah/13-1 "Jeremiah 13:1-10 - The Parable of the Linen Girdle"). Jeremiah is commanded by God to purchase a linen belt, wear it, and then bury it by the Euphrates River. Upon retrieving it much later, the girdle is found to be ruined and "profitable for nothing" ([Jeremiah 13:7](/jeremiah/13-7 "Jeremiah 13:7 - The Ruined Girdle")). Jeremiah 13:11 explicitly states the meaning of this prophetic act: the girdle symbolizes the close bond God intended with His people, and its decay represents their spiritual corruption due to idolatry and disobedience, leading to their impending exile to Babylon. The verse therefore acts as the interpretative key, unlocking the parable's profound message of divine intention, human failure, and coming judgment.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** Jeremiah prophesied during a tumultuous period in Judah's history, primarily in the late 7th and early 6th centuries BCE, leading up to the Babylonian exile. The people, including kings, priests, and prophets, had largely abandoned their covenant with Yahweh, engaging in widespread idolatry, social injustice, and moral corruption. The "loins of a man" (KJV) refer to the waist, where a girdle or belt was worn, signifying a close, intimate connection and often a place of strength and readiness for action. The act of burying the girdle by the Euphrates River was a direct symbolic reference to their future exile in Babylon, located on that river. This historical backdrop underscores the severity of their spiritual condition and the urgency of Jeremiah's message, as God's patience was nearing its end, and the consequences of their persistent rebellion were imminent.
* **Key Themes:** Jeremiah 13:11 encapsulates several foundational themes central to the book of Jeremiah and the broader Old Testament. Firstly, it powerfully highlights **God's unwavering desire for an intimate covenant relationship** with His chosen people, Israel and Judah, emphasizing His initiative in drawing them near. Secondly, it articulates **God's divine purpose and glory** for His people: they were set apart to be a unique nation, reflecting His character and bringing Him "a name, and for a praise, and for a glory" before all nations, echoing the covenant promises of [Exodus 19:5-6](/exodus/19-5 "Exodus 19:5-6 - Israel, a Kingdom of Priests"). Thirdly, the verse tragically exposes **human disobedience and rejection** of God's loving overtures. The phrase "but they would not hear" underscores their stubborn refusal to heed prophetic warnings and return to the Lord, a recurring theme throughout Jeremiah and a primary cause for the impending judgment and exile, as seen in the warnings of [Deuteronomy 28](/deuteronomy/28 "Deuteronomy 28 - Blessings and Curses for Obedience and Disobedience").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Girdle (Hebrew, _ʼêzôwr'_):** From a root meaning "something girt," this word refers to a belt or band worn around the waist. In ancient Near Eastern culture, a girdle was an essential item of clothing, worn close to the body, often signifying readiness for action, strength, and honor. Its closeness to the body in this metaphor emphasizes the intimate, inseparable bond God desired with His people, akin to a vital garment.
* **Cleaveth (Hebrew, _dâbaq'_):** A primitive root meaning "to impinge, i.e., cling or adhere." This word denotes an intense, inseparable bond, a sticking fast, or joining oneself to something. Its use here highlights the depth of the relationship God initiated and desired to maintain with Israel and Judah. The repetition of this verb ("cleaveth" and "caused to cleave") underscores God's active pursuit of this intimate connection.
* **Hear (Hebrew, _shâmaʻ'_):** A primitive root meaning "to hear intelligently," often with the implication of attention, obedience, and understanding. The concluding phrase "but they would not hear" (using the negative form of _shâmaʻ_) signifies not merely a lack of auditory perception, but a deliberate refusal to listen, understand, and obey God's commands and warnings. It points to a hardened heart and a rebellious will.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"For as the girdle cleaveth to the loins of a man":** This opening clause establishes the central simile of the passage. It draws a clear parallel between the physical closeness and utility of a girdle to a man's body—specifically his loins, a place of strength and intimacy—and the spiritual closeness God desired with His people. The girdle is not merely an adornment but an essential, close-fitting item.
* **"so have I caused to cleave unto me the whole house of Israel and the whole house of Judah, saith the LORD;":** This clause directly applies the simile, revealing God's active, intentional role in establishing this intimate bond. The repetition of "cleave" emphasizes divine initiative. "The whole house of Israel and the whole house of Judah" signifies God's comprehensive covenant with both kingdoms, underscoring His universal desire for His entire chosen people to be inseparably united with Him. The phrase "saith the LORD" authenticates this divine declaration.
* **"that they might be unto me for a people, and for a name, and for a praise, and for a glory:":** This section outlines God's profound purpose for this intimate relationship. Israel and Judah were chosen not for their own sake, but to exist "for" God: as His unique "people," bearing His "name" (representing His character and authority), bringing Him "praise" (through their obedience and worship), and reflecting His "glory" to the nations. This reveals their missional calling to be a testimony to God's nature and power in the world.
* **"but they would not hear.":** This concluding, heartbreaking statement reveals the tragic human failure that undermined God's gracious intentions. Despite God's persistent efforts, clear purpose, and intimate desire, Israel and Judah stubbornly refused to listen, understand, and obey His voice. This resistance to God's word and will is the core of their rebellion, leading to the spiritual decay symbolized by the rotten girdle and the inevitable judgment.

#### Literary Devices
Jeremiah 13:11 is rich in literary devices that amplify its message. The primary device is **Simile**, explicitly stated with "For as... so have I caused," comparing God's desired relationship with Israel and Judah to a girdle cleaving to a man's loins. This simile then extends into a powerful **Metaphor**, where the girdle itself becomes a symbol of the intimate, functional, and honorable bond God intended with His people. The subsequent decay of the girdle (from the preceding verses) serves as a **Symbolism** for the spiritual corruption and uselessness that results from Israel's disobedience. The phrase "saith the LORD" is an example of **Divine Oracle Formula**, emphasizing the divine authority and certainty of the message. Finally, the stark contrast between God's gracious intentions ("that they might be unto me for a people, and for a name, and for a praise, and for a glory") and the people's rebellious response ("but they would not hear") creates profound **Juxtaposition**, highlighting the tragedy of their rejection and underscoring the theme of human responsibility in the covenant relationship.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Jeremiah 13:11 profoundly articulates the essence of God's covenant relationship with Israel: His sovereign election, His deep desire for intimacy, and His ultimate purpose for His people to manifest His glory to the world. The image of "cleaving" speaks to a bond of profound loyalty and affection, mirroring the language used for marital union, signifying a relationship meant to be exclusive and enduring. However, the tragic conclusion, "but they would not hear," underscores the recurring biblical theme of human rebellion and the consequences of rejecting divine grace. This verse emphasizes that while God's faithfulness to His covenant is unwavering, the outworking of His blessings and purposes is contingent upon His people's obedient response. It reveals God's heart, not just as a judge, but as a loving Father whose intentions for His children are always for their good and His glory.

* [Genesis 2:24](/genesis/2-24 "Genesis 2:24 - Man and Woman Cleaving")
* [Exodus 19:5-6](/exodus/19-5 "Exodus 19:5-6 - Israel, God's Treasured Possession")
* [Isaiah 43:21](/isaiah/43-21 "Isaiah 43:21 - A People Formed for God's Praise")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Jeremiah 13:11 offers a timeless and piercing challenge for believers today. It compels us to examine the depth of our own "cleaving" to the Lord. Just as God desired Israel to be intimately connected to Him, bringing Him glory, so too does He desire a profound, active relationship with us. Our lives are meant to be a constant testimony to His character, a source of praise, and a reflection of His glory in a world desperately needing to see Him. The heartbreaking reality of Israel's refusal to hear serves as a potent warning: spiritual decay and distance from God are not due to His absence, but often to our unwillingness to listen, obey, and prioritize His voice amidst the clamor of the world. This verse calls us to cultivate a posture of humility and responsiveness, ensuring that our lives genuinely honor the One who has called us into such a precious and purposeful relationship.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what practical ways do I demonstrate that I am "cleaving" to God in my daily life?**
* **Am I living in a manner that brings "a name, and for a praise, and for a glory" to God, or am I seeking my own recognition?**
* **What are the "voices" or distractions in my life that prevent me from truly "hearing" and obeying God's Word?**
* **How can I deepen my intimacy with God and ensure my life reflects His divine purpose for me?**

### FAQ
**What is the significance of the "girdle" in this prophecy?**

Answer: The girdle, or belt, in Jeremiah 13:11 is highly significant. In ancient times, a girdle was worn close to the body, around the loins, and was essential for holding up garments and for providing support and readiness for physical activity. Its closeness symbolizes the intimate, inseparable bond God desired with Israel and Judah. Just as a girdle is vital and close-fitting, God wanted His people to be deeply connected to Him, serving as a visible testament to His presence and power. The subsequent decay of the girdle (as described in [Jeremiah 13:7](/jeremiah/13-7 "Jeremiah 13:7 - The Ruined Girdle")) symbolizes the spiritual corruption, uselessness, and impending judgment that resulted from Israel's disobedience and idolatry, rendering them "profitable for nothing" to God's original purpose.

**How does the word "cleave" in this verse relate to other biblical uses of the word?**

Answer: The Hebrew word translated "cleave" is *dabaq* (דָּבַק), which means to cling, stick fast, or be joined. This word is used throughout the Old Testament to describe various forms of strong attachment. Most notably, it is used in [Genesis 2:24](/genesis/2-24 "Genesis 2:24 - Man and Woman Cleaving") to describe a man "cleaving" to his wife in marriage, signifying an exclusive, intimate, and enduring union. Its use in Jeremiah 13:11 therefore underscores the profound depth of intimacy, faithfulness, and loyalty that God desired in His covenant relationship with Israel and Judah, akin to the most sacred human bond. It highlights God's initiative in seeking this close connection and the tragic irony of His people's failure to reciprocate.

**What does "they would not hear" imply about human free will?**

Answer: The phrase "but they would not hear" (Hebrew: *shama'*) is a powerful statement about human free will and responsibility. In biblical context, "to hear" often implies not just perceiving sound, but also understanding, paying attention, and, crucially, obeying. Therefore, "they would not hear" means that Israel and Judah deliberately chose to disregard God's commands, warnings, and invitations to repentance. Despite God's persistent efforts through prophets like Jeremiah, they exercised their agency to reject His will, pursuing their own desires and idolatrous practices. This demonstrates that while God initiates and desires a relationship, He respects human freedom, and the consequences of disobedience are a direct result of human choice, not divine coercion. This highlights the covenantal nature of their relationship, which required active participation and obedience from the human side ([Deuteronomy 30:19](/deuteronomy/30-19 "Deuteronomy 30:19 - Choose Life")).

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Jeremiah 13:11, with its poignant portrayal of God's desire for an intimate, glorious relationship with His people and their tragic failure, finds its ultimate fulfillment in Jesus Christ. The "whole house of Israel and the whole house of Judah" failed to "cleave" to God and bring Him "a name, and for a praise, and for a glory." However, in Christ, God establishes a new covenant where this intimate bond is not only possible but guaranteed for those who believe. Jesus Himself is the perfect "girdle" who perfectly cleaved to the Father, always doing His will and bringing Him ultimate glory ([John 8:29](/john/8-29 "John 8:29 - Jesus Always Pleases the Father")). Through His atoning sacrifice, Christ removes the spiritual "rot" of sin that prevented humanity from truly hearing and obeying God. He invites believers to "abide" in Him, a concept directly echoing the "cleaving" of Jeremiah 13:11, ensuring a living, fruitful union ([John 15:4-5](/john/15-4 "John 15:4-5 - Abide in Me")). As the Head of the Church, His body, Jesus forms a new people—a spiritual Israel—who are indeed chosen "that we should be to the praise of his glory" ([Ephesians 1:11-12](/ephesians/1-11 "Ephesians 1:11-12 - To the Praise of His Glory")). Through the indwelling Holy Spirit, the "would not hear" problem of the Old Covenant is overcome, as God's law is now written on hearts, enabling a willing obedience and a genuine cleaving to Him ([Hebrews 8:8-12](/hebrews/8-8 "Hebrews 8:8-12 - The New Covenant")). Thus, in Christ, God's eternal purpose for a people who bring Him glory is perfectly and eternally realized, making us "a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people for his own possession, that you may proclaim the excellencies of him who called you out of darkness into his marvelous light" ([1 Peter 2:9-10](/1_peter/2-9 "1 Peter 2:9-10 - A People for God's Own Possession")).

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

Exodus 19:5

Now therefore, if ye will obey my voice indeed, and keep my covenant, then ye shall be a peculiar treasure unto me above all people: for all the earth [is] mine:

Exodus 19:6

And ye shall be unto me a kingdom of priests, and an holy nation. These [are] the words which thou shalt speak unto the children of Israel.

Jeremiah 33:9

And it shall be to me a name of joy, a praise and an honour before all the nations of the earth, which shall hear all the good that I do unto them: and they shall fear and tremble for all the goodness and for all the prosperity that I procure unto it.

Psalms 81:11

But my people would not hearken to my voice; and Israel would none of me.

Isaiah 43:21

This people have I formed for myself; they shall shew forth my praise.

Deuteronomy 4:7

For what nation [is there so] great, who [hath] God [so] nigh unto them, as the LORD our God [is] in all [things that] we call upon him [for]?

John 5:37

And the Father himself, which hath sent me, hath borne witness of me. Ye have neither heard his voice at any time, nor seen his shape.