Jeremiah 22:15

KJV

Shalt thou reign, because thou closest [thyself] in cedar? did not thy father eat and drink, and do judgment and justice, [and] then [it was] well with him?

KJV (with Strong's)

Shalt thou reign {H4427}, because thou closest {H8474} thyself in cedar {H730}? did not thy father {H1} eat {H398} and drink {H8354}, and do {H6213} judgment {H4941} and justice {H6666}, and then it was well {H2896} with him?

Complete Jewish Bible

Your cedar may be excellent, but that doesn't make you a better king. True, your father ate and drank, but he also did what was right and just, so things went well with him.

Berean Standard Bible

Does it make you a king to excel in cedar? Did not your father have food and drink? He administered justice and righteousness, and so it went well with him.

American Standard Version

Shalt thou reign, because thou strivest to excel in cedar? Did not thy father eat and drink, and do justice and righteousness? then it was well with him.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Jeremiah 22:15 delivers a searing prophetic indictment against King Jehoiakim of Judah, challenging his superficial reign built on lavish indulgence and injustice. The prophet contrasts Jehoiakim's self-serving pursuit of power, symbolized by his opulent cedar palace, with the righteous and just rule of his father, King Josiah. This verse powerfully asserts that true kingship and genuine well-being are not found in material splendor or personal comfort, but in the faithful execution of God's standards of judgment and justice, leading to divine favor and national flourishing.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Jeremiah 22 is part of a series of oracles delivered by the prophet against the kings of Judah, specifically addressing the royal house. Following a general call for justice and righteousness in Jerusalem ([Jeremiah 22:1-5](/jeremiah/22-1-5 "Jeremiah 22:1-5 - Call for Justice")), the chapter narrows its focus to individual kings. Verses 6-9 pronounce judgment on the royal palace itself, foreshadowing its desolation due to the people's covenant breaking. Verses 10-12 lament King Shallum (Jehoahaz), who was exiled to Egypt. Jeremiah 22:13-19 then directly confronts King Jehoiakim, condemning his oppressive building practices and his ignominious end. Our verse, [Jeremiah 22:15](/jeremiah/22-15 "Jeremiah 22:15 - Jehoiakim's Unjust Reign"), stands as the rhetorical climax of this condemnation, directly contrasting Jehoiakim's unrighteousness with Josiah's exemplary reign, setting the stage for the pronouncement of Jehoiakim's shameful burial in [Jeremiah 22:19](/jeremiah/22-19 "Jeremiah 22:19 - Jehoiakim's Ignominious End").
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The prophet Jeremiah ministered during the final decades of the Kingdom of Judah (late 7th to early 6th century BCE), a period marked by political instability, moral decline, and the looming threat of Babylonian conquest. King Jehoiakim (reigned 609-598 BCE) was a vassal king installed by Pharaoh Neco II of Egypt. Unlike his father, King Josiah, who initiated significant religious reforms and sought to restore the covenant with God (as vividly described in [2 Kings 23](/2_kings/23 "2 Kings 23 - Josiah's Reforms")), Jehoiakim was characterized by his disregard for the Law, his oppressive policies, and his extravagant lifestyle. He famously burned Jeremiah's scroll of prophecy ([Jeremiah 36:23](/jeremiah/36-23 "Jeremiah 36:23 - Jehoiakim Burns the Scroll")), demonstrating his open defiance of God's word. His construction of a lavish palace, likely funded by forced labor and unpaid wages, was a direct violation of covenant principles and a stark contrast to the righteous governance expected of a king in Israel.
* **Key Themes:** This verse encapsulates several crucial themes prevalent throughout Jeremiah and the broader prophetic literature. Firstly, it highlights the theme of **righteous leadership versus corrupt governance**. The stark comparison between Josiah and Jehoiakim underscores God's demand for justice and righteousness from those in authority, rather than self-enrichment or oppression. Secondly, it emphasizes the **consequences of obedience and disobedience** to God's covenant. Josiah's "well-being" (Hebrew: *ṭôwb*) is directly linked to his adherence to "judgment and justice," while Jehoiakim's pursuit of luxury leads to divine condemnation. This reinforces the biblical principle that true prosperity and national security are contingent upon moral integrity and covenant faithfulness, not military strength or material wealth. Lastly, the passage touches on the theme of **true versus false security**, demonstrating that reliance on physical structures like a cedar palace offers no genuine protection or legitimacy in the eyes of God, as also seen in warnings against trusting in human strength in [Jeremiah 17:5-8](/jeremiah/17-5-8 "Jeremiah 17:5-8 - Trust in the Lord").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **reign (Hebrew, _mâlak'_):** From a primitive root meaning "to reign; inceptively, to ascend the throne; causatively, to induct into royalty." This word emphasizes the very act and authority of kingship. Jeremiah's question challenges Jehoiakim's legitimacy and fitness to rule, implying that his actions contradict the divine purpose of a king. It questions whether his claim to the throne is truly valid, given his unrighteous conduct.
* **judgment (Hebrew, _mishpâṭ'_):** Properly, "a verdict (favorable or unfavorable) pronounced judicially, especially a sentence or formal decree... abstractly, justice." This refers to the administration of law, the upholding of rights, and the protection of the vulnerable. It signifies legal and social justice, the equitable application of divine and human statutes.
* **justice (Hebrew, _tsᵉdâqâh'_):** From a root meaning "rightness (abstractly), subjectively (rectitude), objectively (justice), morally (virtue) or figuratively (prosperity)." This term encompasses ethical conduct, integrity, and living in right relationship with God and humanity. Together, *mishpâṭ* and *tsᵉdâqâh* form a comprehensive concept of social and moral righteousness, foundational to God's covenant and essential for a king's rule.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Shalt thou reign, because thou closest [thyself] in cedar?"**: This is a potent rhetorical question, serving as a sharp rebuke to King Jehoiakim. It challenges the very basis of his kingship. The phrase "closest [thyself] in cedar" vividly depicts his obsession with lavish palace construction, using expensive cedar wood, likely imported. The prophet implies that Jehoiakim believes his authority or success is derived from or validated by his material extravagance, rather than by divine appointment or righteous governance. The underlying Hebrew for "closest" (H8474, *tachârâh*) can carry the nuance of "contending" or "vying," suggesting Jehoiakim is striving for kingship through ostentatious display rather than just rule.
* **"did not thy father eat and drink, and do judgment and justice,"**: This clause introduces the powerful contrast with King Josiah, Jehoiakim's father. The simple acts of "eat and drink" highlight Josiah's contentment and sufficiency, implying a life lived without oppressive extravagance, yet with all necessary provisions. Crucially, Josiah "did judgment and justice" (*mishpâṭ* and *tsᵉdâqâh*). This refers to his unwavering commitment to upholding God's law, administering fair judgments, protecting the poor and vulnerable, and living righteously before God and man. This was the hallmark of his reign, distinguishing him as a king who prioritized God's will over personal luxury.
* **"[and] then [it was] well with him?"**: This concluding rhetorical question underscores the positive outcome of Josiah's righteous rule. The phrase "it was well with him" (Hebrew: *ṭôwb*, H2896) signifies not just personal comfort, but comprehensive well-being, prosperity, peace, and divine favor. It implies that Josiah's reign was blessed and successful precisely *because* he prioritized justice and righteousness, demonstrating God's principle that true flourishing for a king and his kingdom comes from obedience to divine standards, not from material accumulation or self-serving ambition.

#### Literary Devices
Jeremiah 22:15 masterfully employs several literary devices to convey its powerful message. The most prominent is the **Rhetorical Question**, used twice ("Shalt thou reign...?" and "did not thy father...?"), which serves not to elicit an answer but to make a forceful assertion and condemnation. These questions highlight the absurdity of Jehoiakim's priorities and the self-evident truth of Josiah's righteous legacy. **Contrast** is central to the verse's structure, juxtaposing Jehoiakim's self-indulgent reign ("closest in cedar") with Josiah's just and righteous rule ("eat and drink, and do judgment and justice"). This stark comparison emphasizes the moral and spiritual chasm between the two kings. **Symbolism** is evident in "cedar," which represents not just a building material, but the epitome of luxury, extravagance, and misplaced values. It symbolizes Jehoiakim's focus on outward show rather than inward character. Finally, there is an element of **Irony**, as Jehoiakim's pursuit of security and grandeur through his cedar palace ultimately leads to his downfall, while Josiah's humble and just rule brought true "well-being."

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Jeremiah 22:15 powerfully articulates the biblical theology of righteous governance, asserting that true authority and prosperity are rooted not in material wealth or outward display, but in the unwavering commitment to God's standards of justice and righteousness. It underscores the divine expectation that leaders, particularly kings, are to be agents of God's justice, defending the oppressed and upholding the law, rather than exploiting their position for personal gain. This passage serves as a timeless reminder that national and individual well-being (the "it was well with him" of Josiah) is a direct consequence of aligning with God's moral order, demonstrating that divine favor is contingent upon ethical conduct and spiritual integrity. The prophet challenges the superficiality of human power, redirecting focus to the enduring principles of God's kingdom.

* [Deuteronomy 17:18-20](/deuteronomy/17-18-20 "Deuteronomy 17:18-20 - Laws for the King")
* [Micah 6:8](/micah/6-8 "Micah 6:8 - What the Lord Requires")
* [Proverbs 29:4](/proverbs/29-4 "Proverbs 29:4 - Righteousness and Justice in Rulers")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Jeremiah 22:15 challenges us to critically examine the foundations of our own lives, our leadership, and our society. For those in positions of authority—whether in government, business, church, or family—this verse serves as a potent warning against prioritizing personal gain, outward appearances, or material accumulation over the welfare of those entrusted to our care. True leadership, as exemplified by Josiah, is characterized by integrity, a commitment to justice for the vulnerable, and a humble submission to divine principles. For individuals, the passage prompts introspection: Are we building our lives on a "cedar palace" of fleeting external success, consumerism, or self-indulgence, or are we cultivating a life marked by "judgment and justice"—righteousness in our dealings, compassion for others, and a deep walk with God? Our genuine well-being, both individually and collectively, is not found in what we accumulate or display, but in how faithfully we reflect God's character and live out His purposes in the world.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **What "cedar palaces" might I be building in my own life, focusing on outward appearances or material gain rather than inner character and righteous living?**
* **In what ways can I, in my sphere of influence, emulate Josiah's commitment to "judgment and justice" in my daily interactions and decisions?**
* **How does this verse challenge my understanding of true prosperity and well-being, both for myself and for my community?**
* **What are the practical steps I can take to prioritize ethical conduct and compassion over self-interest in my personal and professional life?**

### FAQ

**What is the significance of "cedar" in this verse?**

Answer: "Cedar" (Hebrew: *ʼerez*, H730) in Jeremiah 22:15 symbolizes extreme luxury, extravagance, and misplaced priorities. Cedar wood, particularly from Lebanon, was highly prized, expensive, and often used for grand royal palaces and temples (e.g., Solomon's palace and the Temple, as mentioned in [1 Kings 7:2-3](/1_kings/7-2-3 "1 Kings 7:2-3 - Solomon's Palace of the Forest of Lebanon")). By "closing himself in cedar," King Jehoiakim was demonstrating his self-indulgent lifestyle and his oppressive use of resources, likely through forced labor, to build a lavish residence, directly condemned in [Jeremiah 22:13](/jeremiah/22-13 "Jeremiah 22:13 - Jehoiakim's Unjust Practices"). It stands in stark contrast to the simple, just life of his father, Josiah, and represents a king who valued his own comfort and status above the welfare of his people and the commands of God.

**How does King Josiah serve as a positive example in this passage?**

Answer: King Josiah serves as the ultimate positive foil to Jehoiakim. The verse highlights that Josiah "did eat and drink, and do judgment and justice, and then it was well with him." This paints a picture of a king who was content with basic provisions, did not oppress his people for personal luxury, and most importantly, governed with integrity and righteousness. His reign was marked by a deep commitment to God's Law, leading to significant spiritual reforms and national repentance ([2 Kings 23:25](/2_kings/23-25 "2 Kings 23:25 - Josiah's Righteousness")). His "well-being" (Hebrew: *ṭôwb*, H2896) was a direct result of his faithful and just rule, demonstrating that true prosperity and divine favor come from obedience to God's moral standards, not from material accumulation or power displays. Josiah's life illustrates the profound connection between righteous leadership and divine blessing.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Jeremiah 22:15, with its sharp contrast between a self-serving, materialistic king and a righteous, just ruler, finds its ultimate fulfillment and resolution in Jesus Christ. Jehoiakim represents the fallen, earthly kings who seek their own glory and build kingdoms of fleeting splendor, often at the expense of justice and the poor. In stark contrast, Jesus is the King who did not "close Himself in cedar" but "had nowhere to lay His head" ([Matthew 8:20](/matthew/8-20 "Matthew 8:20 - Jesus Has Nowhere to Lay His Head")). He is the true Son of David, the perfect embodiment of the righteous King prophesied throughout the Old Testament. While Josiah "did judgment and justice," Jesus *is* justice and righteousness personified ([1 Corinthians 1:30](/1_corinthians/1-30 "1 Corinthians 1:30 - Christ Our Righteousness")). His kingdom is not of this world, built on material wealth or earthly power, but is a spiritual kingdom founded on truth, love, and justice ([John 18:36](/john/18-36 "John 18:36 - My Kingdom Is Not of This World")). He came not to be served, but to serve, and to give His life as a ransom for many ([Mark 10:45](/mark/10-45 "Mark 10:45 - The Son of Man Came to Serve")). Through His perfect life, atoning death, and glorious resurrection, Jesus established a reign where true "well-being" is offered to all who believe—a spiritual prosperity and peace that transcends earthly circumstances, leading to eternal life and a restored relationship with God ([John 3:16](/john/3-16 "John 3:16 - God So Loved the World")). He is the King who truly brings justice and righteousness to His people, not through oppressive building projects, but through His sacrificial love and the establishment of His eternal kingdom, fulfilling the longing for a just ruler found throughout the prophetic books, such as [Isaiah 9:6-7](/isaiah/9-6-7 "Isaiah 9:6-7 - The Prince of Peace").

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

2 Kings 23:25

¶ And like unto him was there no king before him, that turned to the LORD with all his heart, and with all his soul, and with all his might, according to all the law of Moses; neither after him arose there [any] like him.

Isaiah 3:10

Say ye to the righteous, that [it shall be] well [with him]: for they shall eat the fruit of their doings.

Ecclesiastes 10:17

Blessed [art] thou, O land, when thy king [is] the son of nobles, and thy princes eat in due season, for strength, and not for drunkenness!

Proverbs 25:5

Take away the wicked [from] before the king, and his throne shall be established in righteousness.

Proverbs 29:4

¶ The king by judgment establisheth the land: but he that receiveth gifts overthroweth it.

Psalms 128:1

¶ A Song of degrees. Blessed [is] every one that feareth the LORD; that walketh in his ways.

Psalms 128:2

For thou shalt eat the labour of thine hands: happy [shalt] thou [be], and [it shall be] well with thee.