Jeremiah 16:21

KJV

Therefore, behold, I will this once cause them to know, I will cause them to know mine hand and my might; and they shall know that my name [is] The LORD.

KJV (with Strong's)

Therefore, behold, I will this once {H6471} cause them to know {H3045}, I will cause them to know {H3045} mine hand {H3027} and my might {H1369}; and they shall know {H3045} that my name {H8034} is The LORD {H3068}.

Complete Jewish Bible

"Therefore, I will make them know, once and for all, I will make them know my power and my might. Then they will know that my name is ADONAI.

Berean Standard Bible

“Therefore behold, I will inform them, and this time I will make them know My power and My might; then they will know that My name is the LORD.

American Standard Version

Therefore, behold, I will cause them to know, this once will I cause them to know my hand and my might; and they shall know that my name is Jehovah.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Jeremiah 16:21 serves as a climactic declaration from Yahweh, revealing His sovereign intent to unequivocally manifest His power and identity to Judah and, by extension, to the nations. Following pronouncements of severe judgment and future restoration, this verse underscores God's active intervention in human history, ensuring that His unique name and unparalleled might are recognized and acknowledged by all, leading to a profound, experiential knowledge of His divine nature.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Jeremiah 16:21 concludes a significant section (Jeremiah 16:14-21) that shifts from dire prophecies of judgment and exile to a promise of future restoration and, crucially, a universal recognition of Yahweh. The preceding verses (Jeremiah 16:1-13) detail the impending desolation of Judah dueating their idolatry, with Jeremiah himself forbidden from traditional life events as a prophetic sign. However, verses 14-15 introduce a "new exodus" where God will gather His people from all lands, signifying hope beyond judgment. Verses 19-20 present Jeremiah's personal lament and confession, acknowledging the futility of idols and affirming Yahweh as his strength. Verse 21 then directly follows this confession, providing God's response and ultimate purpose: to reveal Himself definitively, confirming Jeremiah's declaration and setting the stage for the broader implications of God's redemptive plan.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The prophet Jeremiah ministered during a tumultuous period in Judah's history, spanning the reigns of the last five kings before the Babylonian exile (c. 627-586 BC). The people of Judah were deeply entrenched in idolatry, adopting the worship of Baal, Asherah, and other foreign deities, often incorporating these practices into their worship of Yahweh. This syncretism was a direct violation of the Mosaic covenant, leading to moral decay and social injustice. The surrounding nations, such as Assyria and Babylon, were powerful empires that frequently threatened Judah's sovereignty. In this polytheistic environment, the declaration that "my name is The LORD" (Yahweh) was a radical assertion of monotheism and divine exclusivity, challenging the prevailing worldview that attributed power to numerous gods. God's demonstration of "His hand and His might" would be understood by the people of that era as a display of superior power, far surpassing the capabilities of any human king or pagan deity.
* **Key Themes:** Jeremiah 16:21 powerfully encapsulates several overarching themes prevalent in the book of Jeremiah and the broader prophetic literature. Firstly, it highlights **Divine Revelation**, emphasizing God's active initiative to make Himself known, not merely through abstract theology but through tangible acts of judgment and salvation. This revelation is not passive but an intentional, forceful disclosure of His character. Secondly, the verse underscores **God's Sovereign Power**, as expressed through "mine hand and my might," which refers to His omnipotent ability to execute His will in history, whether in bringing about judgment or orchestrating restoration. This power is absolute and unrivaled, demonstrating His control over all nations and circumstances, as seen in His judgment on Judah and the nations in [Jeremiah 25:1](/jeremiah/25 "Jeremiah 25 - Prophecy Against the Nations"). Thirdly, the verse champions the **Uniqueness of Yahweh**, asserting that His name, "The LORD" (YHWH), signifies His self-existent, eternal, and covenant-keeping nature, distinguishing Him definitively from all false gods. This theme is foundational to Israel's identity and mission, echoing God's self-revelation to Moses in [Exodus 3:14](/exodus/3-14 "Exodus 3:14 - God Reveals His Name 'I AM'"). Finally, there is a strong theme of **Universal Recognition**, implying that God's mighty acts, initially directed at Judah, will ultimately serve as a testimony to the entire world, leading to a global acknowledgment of His supreme authority and unique identity, a concept also found in [Isaiah 45:23](/isaiah/45-23 "Isaiah 45:23 - Every Knee Shall Bow").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **know (Hebrew, _yâdaʻ'_):** This primitive root signifies more than mere intellectual apprehension. It encompasses a deep, personal, and experiential knowledge, often gained through direct encounter, observation, or intimate relationship. In Jeremiah 16:21, the repeated use of this verb, particularly in its causative form ("cause them to know"), emphasizes God's active, intentional, and undeniable revelation of Himself, forcing an experiential understanding upon those who witness His deeds. It implies a recognition that transforms one's perspective and allegiance.
* **hand (Hebrew, _yâd'_):** A primitive word, "yâd" refers to the open hand, symbolizing power, means, direction, and action. Figuratively, it represents God's active involvement, His strength, authority, and the instrument through which He executes His will. When God speaks of His "hand" being known, it points to His direct, tangible intervention in human affairs, demonstrating His control and sovereignty through specific acts of judgment or deliverance.
* **might (Hebrew, _gᵉbûwrâh'_):** This feminine passive participle denotes force, valor, victory, and power. It refers to God's inherent strength, His omnipotence, and His ability to overcome all opposition. Coupled with "hand," "might" emphasizes the irresistible and overwhelming nature of God's power. The knowledge of God's "might" implies a recognition of His supreme capability to fulfill His purposes, whether in judgment or in salvation, leaving no doubt about His absolute dominion.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Therefore, behold, I will this once cause them to know,"**: The opening "Therefore" connects this declaration to the preceding context of judgment and the promise of restoration, indicating a logical consequence of God's ongoing work. "Behold" serves as an emphatic call to attention, signaling a significant divine pronouncement. "I will this once" (H6471, _paʻam_) suggests a decisive, conclusive, and perhaps unprecedented act of revelation. God is asserting His intention to make Himself known in a unique and impactful way, ensuring that this knowledge is not theoretical but experientially undeniable.
* **"I will cause them to know mine hand and my might;"**: This clause reiterates and specifies the nature of the knowledge God intends to impart. The repetition of "I will cause them to know" (H3045, _yâdaʻ_) underscores the certainty and divine initiative of this revelation. God is not waiting for humanity to discover Him; He is actively intervening to reveal His attributes. "Mine hand" (H3027, _yâd_) signifies His active power, His direct intervention in history, and the means by which He accomplishes His will. "My might" (H1369, _gᵉbûwrâh_) speaks to His inherent strength, omnipotence, and the irresistible force of His divine nature. Together, these phrases declare that God's power will be undeniably demonstrated through His actions.
* **"and they shall know that my name [is] The LORD."**: This final clause states the ultimate purpose and outcome of God's self-revelation. The knowledge of His "hand and might" will lead directly to the profound understanding that His "name" (H8034, _shêm_) "is The LORD" (H3068, _Yᵉhôvâh_). "The LORD" (YHWH) is the sacred covenant name of God, signifying His eternal, self-existent nature, His faithfulness to His promises, and His unique identity as the one true God. This knowledge is not merely intellectual recognition but a transformative acknowledgment of His exclusive deity and supreme authority, compelling worship and obedience.

#### Literary Devices
Jeremiah 16:21 employs several powerful literary devices to convey its profound message. The most prominent is **Repetition**, specifically the phrase "I will cause them to know," which appears twice. This emphatic reiteration highlights the certainty, divine initiative, and the profound importance of this experiential revelation. It underscores that God's self-disclosure is not accidental but a deliberate act of His will. Another device is **Metonymy**, where "mine hand" stands for God's active power and intervention. The hand is a part of the body, but here it represents the entirety of God's working and His direct involvement in human affairs. The phrase "my might" functions as a **Parallelism** with "mine hand," reinforcing the idea of God's overwhelming power and ability. Finally, the verse culminates in a powerful **Declaration of Divine Identity**, where God explicitly states His name, "The LORD" (YHWH). This is not just a name but a statement of His unique, self-existent, and covenantal nature, setting Him apart from all other gods and demanding exclusive allegiance.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Jeremiah 16:21 stands as a pivotal theological statement, articulating God's unwavering commitment to self-revelation and the universal acknowledgment of His unique sovereignty. It asserts that God is not a hidden deity but one who actively intervenes in history to display His power and identity. This divine initiative ensures that humanity, whether through judgment or salvation, will ultimately come to an experiential knowledge of His supreme authority and the exclusive nature of His name, Yahweh. This revelation serves not only to vindicate His justice and faithfulness but also to call all people to repentance and worship, recognizing Him as the one true God above all false idols. The verse thus connects to the broader biblical narrative of God's progressive self-disclosure, culminating in the ultimate revelation of His character and plan.

* [Psalm 46:10](/psalm/46-10 "Psalm 46:10 - Be Still, and Know That I Am God")
* [Isaiah 45:6](/isaiah/45-6 "Isaiah 45:6 - That They May Know There Is None Besides Me")
* [Ezekiel 36:23](/ekekiel/36-23 "Ezekiel 36:23 - God's Name Sanctified Among the Nations")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Jeremiah 16:21 offers profound insights for contemporary believers, reminding us that God is perpetually at work in the world, orchestrating events to reveal His "hand and His might" and to make His name known. In a world increasingly prone to secularism, pluralism, and the worship of created things, this verse serves as a powerful anchor, affirming God's active sovereignty over all circumstances. For those who trust in Him, it inspires confidence that even amidst chaos and uncertainty, God is moving purposefully to bring about His ultimate design, ensuring His glory is recognized. For those who do not yet know Him, it stands as a divine invitation and a solemn warning: God *will* make Himself known, and His revelation demands a response. Our call, then, is to live in light of this truth, trusting in His power, proclaiming His unique name, and allowing His active presence to shape our understanding of reality and our daily walk. We are to be instruments through which others can encounter the living God and come to know His hand and His might.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How have I personally experienced God's "hand and might" in my life, leading me to a deeper knowledge of His name?**
* **In what ways might God be revealing His power and identity in the world today, even through challenging or difficult circumstances?**
* **How can I, as a believer, more intentionally participate in God's mission to make His name, "The LORD," known to those around me?**
* **What false "gods" or idols in my own life or culture might need to be exposed by the revelation of Yahweh's unique power and authority?**

### FAQ
**What does "this once" mean in Jeremiah 16:21?**

Answer: The phrase "this once" (Hebrew: *paʻam*) in Jeremiah 16:21 signifies a decisive, singular, and impactful event or series of events through which God intends to reveal Himself. It implies that this revelation will be so profound and undeniable that it will serve as a definitive demonstration of His power and identity. While God has revealed Himself throughout history, this particular instance refers to the impending judgments and subsequent restoration that will leave no doubt about His unique sovereignty over Judah and the nations, making His name, "The LORD," known in an unprecedented way. It's a declaration of a climactic, conclusive act of divine self-disclosure.

**How does God "cause them to know" His hand and might?**

Answer: God causes people to know His "hand" (His active power and intervention) and "might" (His inherent strength) primarily through His mighty acts in history. In the context of Jeremiah, this includes both the severe judgments brought upon Judah due to their idolatry and disobedience, leading to exile, and the subsequent miraculous restoration and gathering of His people from dispersion. These events serve as undeniable proofs of His supreme authority and control over nations and circumstances. Beyond the immediate context, God continues to reveal His hand and might through His providential care, answered prayers, and the unfolding of His redemptive plan throughout history, compelling recognition of His unique identity as "The LORD."

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Jeremiah 16:21, with its declaration of God's intent to make His "hand and might" known so that all "shall know that my name is The LORD," finds its ultimate and most profound fulfillment in the person and work of Jesus Christ. The Old Testament consistently points to a future, definitive revelation of God's glory and power, and this climactic unveiling occurs at the incarnation. In Jesus, God's "hand" (His active power) is perfectly manifested, for He is the one through whom all things were created and sustained ([Colossians 1:16-17](/colossians/1-16 "Colossians 1:16-17 - Christ as Creator and Sustainer")). His "might" (His inherent strength and authority) is demonstrated through His miracles, His victory over sin and death on the cross, and His glorious resurrection ([Romans 1:4](/romans/1-4 "Romans 1:4 - Declared Son of God with Power by Resurrection")). The very "name" of "The LORD" (YHWH), which God promised to make known, is supremely revealed in Jesus, for He is "God with us" (Immanuel, [Matthew 1:23](/matthew/1-23 "Matthew 1:23 - Immanuel, God With Us")) and the very "image of the invisible God" ([Colossians 1:15](/colossians/1-15 "Colossians 1:15 - Christ, the Image of God")). Through Christ, humanity is given the opportunity to experientially "know" God in a way previously unimaginable, leading to salvation and eternal life, for "this is eternal life, that they know you, the only true God, and Jesus Christ whom you have sent" ([John 17:3](/john/17-3 "John 17:3 - Eternal Life is Knowing God and Jesus Christ")). Thus, Jeremiah's prophecy anticipates the ultimate revelation of God's identity and power in the person of His Son, Jesus, who perfectly embodies the hand, might, and name of The LORD.

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

Psalms 9:16

The LORD is known [by] the judgment [which] he executeth: the wicked is snared in the work of his own hands. Higgaion. Selah.

Jeremiah 33:2

Thus saith the LORD the maker thereof, the LORD that formed it, to establish it; the LORD [is] his name;

Psalms 83:18

That [men] may know that thou, whose name alone [is] JEHOVAH, [art] the most high over all the earth.

Amos 5:8

[Seek him] that maketh the seven stars and Orion, and turneth the shadow of death into the morning, and maketh the day dark with night: that calleth for the waters of the sea, and poureth them out upon the face of the earth: The LORD [is] his name:

Exodus 15:3

The LORD [is] a man of war: the LORD [is] his name.

Isaiah 43:3

For I [am] the LORD thy God, the Holy One of Israel, thy Saviour: I gave Egypt [for] thy ransom, Ethiopia and Seba for thee.

Exodus 9:14

For I will at this time send all my plagues upon thine heart, and upon thy servants, and upon thy people; that thou mayest know that [there is] none like me in all the earth.