Jeremiah 17:24

KJV

And it shall come to pass, if ye diligently hearken unto me, saith the LORD, to bring in no burden through the gates of this city on the sabbath day, but hallow the sabbath day, to do no work therein;

KJV (with Strong's)

And it shall come to pass, if ye diligently {H8085} hearken {H8085} unto me, saith {H5002} the LORD {H3068}, to bring {H935} in no burden {H4853} through the gates {H8179} of this city {H5892} on the sabbath {H7676} day {H3117}, but hallow {H6942} the sabbath {H7676} day {H3117}, to do {H6213} no {H1115} work {H4399} therein;

Complete Jewish Bible

However, if you will pay careful heed to me," says ADONAI "and carry nothing through the gates of this city on Shabbat, but instead make Shabbat a day which is holy and not for doing work;

Berean Standard Bible

If, however, you listen carefully to Me, says the LORD, and bring no load through the gates of this city on the Sabbath day, and keep the Sabbath day holy, and do no work on it,

American Standard Version

And it shall come to pass, if ye diligently hearken unto me, saith Jehovah, to bring in no burden through the gates of this city on the sabbath day, but to hallow the sabbath day, to do no work therein;

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Jeremiah 17:24 delivers a pivotal message from the Lord to the people of Judah, specifically addressing their adherence to the Sabbath day. It presents a conditional promise of enduring prosperity and the continued existence of Jerusalem if they diligently obey God's command to refrain from commercial activity and labor on the Sabbath, thereby hallowing the day. This divine injunction underscores the profound link between national well-being and covenant faithfulness, serving as both a warning against prevailing disobedience and an invitation to receive God's blessings through obedience.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Jeremiah 17:24 is embedded within a direct prophetic oracle delivered by Jeremiah at the gates of Jerusalem (Jeremiah 17:19-27). This particular section serves as a climactic appeal within Jeremiah's broader ministry, which is characterized by urgent calls to repentance, warnings of impending judgment, and glimpses of future restoration. The placement of this message at the city gates is highly significant, as these were the primary hubs for commerce, legal proceedings, and public assembly. By addressing the people at this strategic location, the Lord emphasizes that their public and economic life must be consecrated to Him, particularly through Sabbath observance. This oracle stands in stark contrast to the preceding verses that lament Judah's deep-seated idolatry and hardened hearts (e.g., [Jeremiah 17:1-11](/jeremiah/17-1 "Jeremiah 17:1-11 - Judah's Sin and Punishment")). The conditional promise of blessing in verses 24-26 is immediately followed by a severe warning of destruction in [Jeremiah 17:27](/jeremiah/17-27 "Jeremiah 17:27 - Consequences of Sabbath Disobedience") should they fail to comply, highlighting the gravity of the command.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** Jeremiah prophesied during a turbulent period in Judah's history, spanning the reigns of several kings leading up to the Babylonian exile (late 7th to early 6th century BCE). The nation was in spiritual decline, marked by widespread idolatry, social injustice, and a general disregard for God's covenant laws. The Sabbath, a foundational element of the Mosaic covenant and a sign of God's unique relationship with Israel (as seen in [Exodus 31:13](/exodus/31-13 "Exodus 31:13 - The Sabbath as a Sign of the Covenant")), was increasingly profaned. Commercial activities, such as bringing goods and burdens through the city gates, were commonplace on the Sabbath, signifying a profound spiritual apathy and a prioritization of worldly gain over divine command. The city gates were not merely entry points but bustling marketplaces where trade flourished. Therefore, the command to cease bringing "burdens" through them directly targeted the economic heart of their Sabbath desecration. This disregard for the Sabbath was symptomatic of a deeper spiritual rebellion against the Lord, contributing to the conditions that would ultimately lead to Jerusalem's destruction and the people's exile.

* **Key Themes:** Jeremiah 17:24 powerfully encapsulates several key themes central to the book of Jeremiah and the broader Old Testament. Firstly, it underscores the theme of **Obedience and Divine Blessing**, presenting a clear "if-then" scenario where national prosperity and the continuity of Jerusalem are directly contingent upon diligent obedience to God's commands, particularly the Sabbath. Secondly, the verse emphasizes the **Sanctity of the Sabbath**, highlighting its divine designation as a day set apart for rest and worship, distinct from ordinary labor and commercial pursuits. This hallowing of the day was not merely a legalistic requirement but a spiritual discipline intended to foster trust in God's provision and a focus on Him. Thirdly, the passage reinforces the **Covenant Relationship** between God and Israel. The Sabbath was a perpetual sign of this covenant (cf. [Ezekiel 20:12](/ekiel/20-12 "Ezekiel 20:12 - The Sabbath as a Sign of Sanctification")), and its faithful observance was a tangible expression of their commitment to the Lord. Disregard for the Sabbath was, therefore, a breach of covenant and an affront to God's holiness, inviting divine judgment. This passage also touches on the theme of **National Destiny**, illustrating how the spiritual health and obedience of the people directly impacted the future of their capital city and their very existence as a nation.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **hearken (Hebrew, _shâmaʻ'_):** From H8085, this primitive root means "to hear intelligently," often implying "attention, obedience, etc." When used with "diligently" (a doubling of the root, as in the KJV "diligently hearken"), it signifies a focused, attentive, and obedient listening that leads to action. It's more than just hearing; it's hearing to obey, indicating a responsiveness to God's word that is crucial for covenant faithfulness.
* **burden (Hebrew, _massâʼ'_):** From H4853, this term literally means "a burden," "load," or "tribute." In this context, it specifically refers to goods, merchandise, or any load carried for commercial purposes. The prohibition against bringing burdens through the gates on the Sabbath directly targets the economic activities and trade that desecrated the holy day, making it indistinguishable from any other day of the week.
* **hallow (Hebrew, _qâdash'_):** From H6942, this primitive root means "to be (causatively, make, pronounce or observe as) clean (ceremonially or morally)," "to consecrate," or "to set apart as holy." To "hallow the Sabbath day" means to treat it as sacred, to distinguish it from common days, and to dedicate it to God's purposes, which primarily involved rest from labor and devotion to Him. It implies a recognition of the day's divine origin and its special status.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And it shall come to pass, if ye diligently hearken unto me, saith the LORD":** This opening clause establishes a clear conditional promise, emphasizing divine authority ("saith the LORD"). The phrase "diligently hearken" (a Hebrew idiom for intense listening and obedience) highlights that the blessing is contingent upon a profound and active responsiveness to God's specific instructions, not merely passive hearing.
* **"to bring in no burden through the gates of this city on the sabbath day":** This is the first, negative command. It specifies the forbidden action: the transportation of commercial goods or any heavy loads associated with work or trade. The mention of "gates of this city" (Jerusalem) underscores the public and economic nature of the Sabbath desecration, as these gates were vital arteries of commerce. This prohibition aimed to halt all business activities that would profane the sacred rest.
* **"but hallow the sabbath day, to do no work therein;":** This is the second, positive command, followed by a reinforcing negative. "Hallow the sabbath day" articulates the spiritual essence of the command: to consecrate the day, setting it apart as holy to the Lord. The subsequent phrase, "to do no work therein," clarifies the practical implication of hallowing – refraining from one's ordinary labor and occupational pursuits, thereby dedicating the day to rest, worship, and spiritual renewal.

#### Literary Devices
Jeremiah 17:24 employs several potent **literary devices** to convey its urgent message. The most prominent is the **Conditional Clause** ("if ye diligently hearken... then it shall come to pass..."), which structures the entire oracle as a divine covenant proposal. This rhetorical device clearly links human obedience to divine blessing, making the consequences of action or inaction explicit. The phrase "saith the LORD" functions as a **Direct Address** and an **Authoritative Declaration**, lending immense weight and solemnity to the command, emphasizing that these are not merely human suggestions but divine imperatives. There is also a form of **Merism** or **Contrast** at play: the negative command ("bring in no burden... do no work") is paired with the positive command ("but hallow the sabbath day"). This dual approach comprehensively defines Sabbath observance, not just as an avoidance of certain actions but as a positive consecration of time. Finally, the "gates of this city" serve as powerful **Symbolism**, representing the economic life, public sphere, and very identity of Jerusalem. By commanding a cessation of commercial activity at these gates, God symbolically calls for the entire public and national life to be brought under the sanctity of the Sabbath.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Jeremiah 17:24 is deeply rooted in the theological framework of the Old Covenant, where national prosperity and divine favor were inextricably linked to Israel's obedience to God's laws. The Sabbath, given at creation and codified at Sinai, was not merely a legalistic observance but a profound theological statement about God's sovereignty, provision, and the rhythm of life He designed for humanity. It was a tangible sign of the covenant, reminding Israel of their unique relationship with the Lord and His sanctifying presence among them. By commanding them to "hallow the Sabbath," God was calling them to trust in His ability to sustain them even when they ceased their labor, fostering a dependence on Him rather than on their own efforts or commercial pursuits. The failure to observe the Sabbath, as seen in Judah's time, was a symptom of a deeper spiritual malaise—a lack of trust, a preference for worldly gain over divine command, and a disregard for God's holiness. Thus, the command in Jeremiah is a final, urgent plea for the nation to return to covenant faithfulness, with their destiny hanging in the balance.

* [Exodus 20:8-11](/exodus/20-8 "Exodus 20:8-11 - The Fourth Commandment")
* [Deuteronomy 5:12-15](/deuteronomy/5-12 "Deuteronomy 5:12-15 - Reiteration of the Sabbath Command")
* [Nehemiah 13:15-22](/nehemiah/13-15 "Nehemiah 13:15-22 - Nehemiah's Enforcement of Sabbath Laws")
* [Isaiah 58:13-14](/isaiah/58-13 "Isaiah 58:13-14 - Blessings for Honoring the Sabbath")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
While the specific legalistic requirements of the Mosaic Sabbath law are understood differently by Christians under the New Covenant, the enduring principles embedded in Jeremiah 17:24 remain profoundly relevant for believers today. This verse calls us to consider how we "hallow" time for God in a world that often demands ceaseless activity and productivity. It challenges us to examine what "burdens" we carry into our sacred spaces and times—whether they are anxieties, distractions, or the relentless pursuit of worldly gain—that prevent us from truly resting in and focusing on God. The command to "do no work" invites us to cultivate intentional rhythms of rest, worship, and spiritual renewal, recognizing that our ultimate security and well-being come from God, not from our own labor. It encourages a life of trust and dependence, where we prioritize our relationship with the Lord above all else, allowing Him to sanctify our time and our pursuits. Our obedience, even in seemingly small acts of setting apart time for Him, reflects our love and trust, and has profound implications for our spiritual flourishing and our witness to the world.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what practical ways can I "hallow" a day or specific times for the Lord in my contemporary life, distinct from my usual routines and responsibilities?**
* **What "burdens" (e.g., worries, tasks, digital distractions) do I need to intentionally lay down to truly rest in God's presence and provision?**
* **How does my personal commitment to spiritual rest and worship reflect my trust in God's sovereignty and provision over my life?**

### FAQ
**What was the significance of "bringing in no burden through the gates" on the Sabbath?**

Answer: The "gates of this city" (Jerusalem) were not just entry points but bustling centers of commerce, trade, and legal proceedings. Merchants would bring goods and merchandise ("burdens") through these gates to sell in the markets. The prohibition against bringing in burdens on the Sabbath was a direct command to cease all commercial and economic activity on that day. This was crucial because it distinguished the Sabbath as a sacred day, set apart from the ordinary pursuit of profit and labor. It was a tangible way to demonstrate trust in God's provision and to honor His command for a day of rest and worship, preventing the sacred day from being profaned by worldly business. This command underscored that the entire public life of the city, not just individual households, was to observe the sanctity of the Sabbath.

**How does the Christian understanding of "Sabbath" relate to this Old Testament command?**

Answer: For Christians, the Old Testament Sabbath laws, including those in Jeremiah 17:24, are understood through the lens of Christ's fulfillment. Jesus declared Himself "Lord of the Sabbath" ([Mark 2:27-28](/mark/2-27 "Mark 2:27-28 - Jesus, Lord of the Sabbath")), indicating that He is the ultimate reality to which the Sabbath pointed. The New Testament emphasizes that believers enter into a spiritual rest in Christ, ceasing from their own works to achieve righteousness ([Hebrews 4:9-10](/hebrews/4-9 "Hebrews 4:9-10 - The Sabbath Rest for the People of God")). While Christians are not typically bound by the specific legalistic observances of the Mosaic Sabbath (such as refraining from all work on a Saturday), the underlying principles remain vital: the importance of regular rest, the prioritization of worship and spiritual renewal, and demonstrating trust in God's provision. Many Christians observe Sunday as the "Lord's Day" in honor of Christ's resurrection, dedicating it to corporate worship and spiritual reflection, embodying the spirit of setting apart time for God.

**Was this a conditional promise for Jerusalem only?**

Answer: Yes, the immediate context and specific language ("this city") indicate that the promise in Jeremiah 17:24-26 was directly addressed to Jerusalem and the kingdom of Judah. It was a specific conditional promise concerning the geopolitical fate of their capital city and the continuity of their Davidic monarchy. However, the underlying theological principle—that obedience to God's commands leads to blessing, and disobedience to judgment—is a pervasive theme throughout Scripture and applies universally to God's dealings with His people, both individually and corporately. While the specific outcomes (e.g., kings sitting on David's throne) were unique to Israel's covenant, the principle of God honoring those who honor Him is timeless.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Jeremiah 17:24, with its emphasis on hallowing the Sabbath and refraining from "burdens" and "work," finds its ultimate and profound fulfillment in Jesus Christ. The Old Testament Sabbath was a shadow, pointing forward to the true rest found in Him. Jesus Himself declared, "Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest" ([Matthew 11:28](/matthew/11-28 "Matthew 11:28 - Jesus' Invitation to Rest")). He is the one who lifts the ultimate "burden" of sin and the impossible "work" of earning righteousness, offering a rest that the Mosaic law could not provide. As the "Lord of the Sabbath" ([Mark 2:28](/mark/2-28 "Mark 2:28 - Jesus, Lord of the Sabbath")), Jesus demonstrated that the Sabbath was made for humanity's benefit, not as a legalistic yoke, and that true rest is found in Him, not merely in abstaining from physical labor. His finished work on the cross provides the perfect "cessation" from striving, fulfilling the spiritual essence of the Sabbath. Believers in Christ enter into this eternal Sabbath rest, not by adhering to a specific day or a list of prohibitions, but by trusting in His complete atonement and finished work. This "hallowing" of time now extends to all of life, as believers are called to live lives consecrated to God, finding their rest and identity in Christ, who has taken away the "burden" of the world's sin ([John 1:29](/john/1-29 "John 1:29 - Jesus, the Lamb of God")). The promise of an enduring kingdom, conditional upon Sabbath observance in Jeremiah, is ultimately fulfilled in Christ's eternal, unshakable kingdom, where His people experience perfect and perpetual rest.

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

Deuteronomy 11:13

And it shall come to pass, if ye shall hearken diligently unto my commandments which I command you this day, to love the LORD your God, and to serve him with all your heart and with all your soul,

Jeremiah 17:21

Thus saith the LORD; Take heed to yourselves, and bear no burden on the sabbath day, nor bring [it] in by the gates of Jerusalem;

Jeremiah 17:22

Neither carry forth a burden out of your houses on the sabbath day, neither do ye any work, but hallow ye the sabbath day, as I commanded your fathers.

2 Peter 1:5

¶ And beside this, giving all diligence, add to your faith virtue; and to virtue knowledge;

2 Peter 1:10

Wherefore the rather, brethren, give diligence to make your calling and election sure: for if ye do these things, ye shall never fall:

Exodus 15:26

And said, If thou wilt diligently hearken to the voice of the LORD thy God, and wilt do that which is right in his sight, and wilt give ear to his commandments, and keep all his statutes, I will put none of these diseases upon thee, which I have brought upon the Egyptians: for I [am] the LORD that healeth thee.

Deuteronomy 11:22

For if ye shall diligently keep all these commandments which I command you, to do them, to love the LORD your God, to walk in all his ways, and to cleave unto him;