17:9 17:9

Jeremiah 17:10

17:11 17:11

Bible Versions

I the LORD search the heart, [I] try the reins, even to give every man according to his ways, [and] according to the fruit of his doings.
I the LORD {H3068} search {H2713} the heart {H3820}, I try {H974} the reins {H3629}, even to give {H5414} every man {H376} according to his ways {H1870}, and according to the fruit {H6529} of his doings {H4611}.
I, ADONAI, search the heart; I test inner motivations; in order to give to everyone what his actions and conduct deserve."
I, the LORD, search the heart; I examine the mind to reward a man according to his way, by what his deeds deserve.
I, Jehovah, search the mind, I try the heart, even to give every man according to his ways, according to the fruit of his doings.

This powerful verse from Jeremiah highlights a core truth about God's nature and His relationship with humanity: His absolute knowledge of our inner lives and His righteous judgment based on both our intentions and our actions.

Context

Jeremiah chapter 17 contrasts those who trust in human strength or resources (cursed, like a bush in the desert, Jeremiah 17:5-6) with those who trust in the LORD (blessed, like a tree by water, Jeremiah 17:7-8). Verse 9 speaks of the deceitfulness of the human heart, setting the stage for verse 10, which reveals that despite the heart's hidden nature, God fully comprehends it.

Key Themes

  • Divine Omniscience: God's perfect and complete knowledge extends to the deepest parts of human beings.
  • Inner vs. Outer Life: The verse emphasizes that God sees beyond outward appearance; He knows our motives and true character.
  • Righteous Judgment: God's judgment is fair and is based on both our inner state ("heart," "reins") and our external conduct ("ways," "doings").
  • Accountability: Every person is accountable to God for their innermost thoughts and their outward actions.

Linguistic Insights

The King James Version uses potent terms. "Heart" translates the Hebrew word leb (or lev), which in the Bible refers not just to emotions but to the entire inner person – the mind, will, conscience, and motives. "Reins" translates kilyah, literally meaning kidneys, but used idiomatically in Hebrew thought to represent the deepest feelings, desires, and innermost being, sometimes considered the seat of emotions and thought. To "search" (chaqar) and "try" (bachan) implies a thorough examination, like testing metal for purity. This underscores that God's knowledge is not superficial but penetrates to the core.

Reflection and Application

This verse is both challenging and comforting. It challenges us because it means there is no hiding our true selves or our motives from God. Our actions are not judged in isolation but in light of the heart from which they spring. This aligns with the idea that the LORD searches all hearts and understands every intent of the thoughts.

It is comforting because for those seeking to live righteously, it means God knows their sincere efforts and struggles, even when others don't understand or when outward circumstances are difficult. Ultimately, God promises to give every man according to his ways, and according to the fruit of his doings, ensuring perfect justice.

For believers, this verse is a call to sincerity and authenticity, striving for purity of heart knowing that God sees and values truth in the inward parts (Psalm 51:6).

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.

  • 1 Samuel 16:7

    But the LORD said unto Samuel, Look not on his countenance, or on the height of his stature; because I have refused him: for [the LORD seeth] not as man seeth; for man looketh on the outward appearance, but the LORD looketh on the heart.

  • Romans 8:27

    And he that searcheth the hearts knoweth what [is] the mind of the Spirit, because he maketh intercession for the saints according to [the will of] God.

  • Revelation 2:23

    And I will kill her children with death; and all the churches shall know that I am he which searcheth the reins and hearts: and I will give unto every one of you according to your works.

  • Psalms 139:23

    Search me, O God, and know my heart: try me, and know my thoughts:

  • Psalms 139:24

    And see if [there be any] wicked way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting.

  • Hebrews 4:12

    For the word of God [is] quick, and powerful, and sharper than any twoedged sword, piercing even to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit, and of the joints and marrow, and [is] a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart.

  • Hebrews 4:13

    Neither is there any creature that is not manifest in his sight: but all things [are] naked and opened unto the eyes of him with whom we have to do.
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