Jeremiah 22:9

KJV

Then they shall answer, Because they have forsaken the covenant of the LORD their God, and worshipped other gods, and served them.

KJV (with Strong's)

Then they shall answer {H559}, Because they have forsaken {H5800} the covenant {H1285} of the LORD {H3068} their God {H430}, and worshipped {H7812} other {H312} gods {H430}, and served {H5647} them.

Complete Jewish Bible

The answer will be, 'Because they abandoned the covenant of ADONAI their God and worshipped other gods, serving them.'"

Berean Standard Bible

Then people will reply, ‘Because they have forsaken the covenant of the LORD their God and have worshiped and served other gods.’”

American Standard Version

Then they shall answer, Because they forsook the covenant of Jehovah their God, and worshipped other gods, and served them.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Jeremiah 22:9 serves as the definitive divine pronouncement explaining the catastrophic judgment descending upon Judah, unequivocally attributing the nation's impending desolation to their profound spiritual apostasy. It succinctly articulates that their doom is a direct consequence of their deliberate abandonment of the sacred covenant established with the LORD their God, coupled with their pervasive and persistent worship and service of foreign deities, thereby underscoring the immutable principles of divine justice and the severe repercussions of national unfaithfulness.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Jeremiah 22:9 provides the direct and divinely authoritative answer to the rhetorical question posed in the preceding verse, [Jeremiah 22:8](/jeremiah/22-8 "Jeremiah 22:8 - The Question of Judgment"), which anticipates the inquiry of "many nations": "Wherefore hath the LORD done thus unto this great city?" This immediate literary placement frames verse 9 as the theological rationale for Jerusalem's impending destruction and the exile of its people, revealing that the calamity is not arbitrary but a just recompense. The broader discourse in [Jeremiah 22](/jeremiah/22 "Jeremiah 22 - Prophecies Against Judah's Kings") is a series of prophetic pronouncements against the unrighteous kings of Judah—specifically Shallum (Jehoahaz), Jehoiakim, and Coniah (Jehoiachin)—condemning their injustice, oppression, and rampant idolatry. The chapter contrasts their wicked rule with the righteous reign of a future Davidic king, making verse 9 integral to Jeremiah's sustained theme of warning and judgment, underscoring that Judah's suffering is a direct result of their profound covenant infidelity.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** Jeremiah prophesied during the tumultuous final decades of the Kingdom of Judah (late 7th to early 6th century BCE), a period characterized by intense political instability, shifting allegiances between regional superpowers (Egypt and Babylon), and profound spiritual decline. Following the brief but significant reforms under King Josiah, Judah quickly reverted to widespread idolatry and social injustice under his successors, particularly Jehoiakim, who is a primary target of condemnation in [Jeremiah 22](/jeremiah/22 "Jeremiah 22 - Prophecies Against Judah's Kings"). Despite their unique covenant relationship with Yahweh, the people had adopted the religious practices of surrounding nations, engaging in the worship of pagan gods like Baal and Asherah, and even abhorrent practices such as child sacrifice. Culturally, this was a direct violation of the foundational principles of the Mosaic Law, which demanded exclusive allegiance to the LORD and strictly prohibited syncretism. The looming threat of the Babylonian Empire, which would eventually lead to the destruction of Jerusalem and the exile, provides the grim backdrop against which Jeremiah's words of judgment resonate with urgent prophetic authority.
* **Key Themes:** The central theme in [Jeremiah 22:9](/jeremiah/22-9 "Jeremiah 22:9 - The Reason for Judah's Judgment") is the **breach of covenant**, specifically the [Mosaic Covenant](/exodus/24-8 "Exodus 24:8 - The Ratification of the Covenant at Sinai"). This sacred agreement, established at Mount Sinai, stipulated blessings for obedience and severe curses for disobedience, as vividly detailed in [Deuteronomy 28](/deuteronomy/28 "Deuteronomy 28 - Blessings and Curses"). Judah's actions, particularly their "forsaking" of this covenant, represent a deliberate and profound betrayal of their unique relationship with God. Closely intertwined is the theme of **idolatry and spiritual apostasy**, as the verse explicitly states they "worshipped other gods, and served them." This highlights the pervasive turning away from the one true God, a direct violation of the [First Commandment](/exodus/20-3 "Exodus 20:3 - The First Commandment"). Finally, the verse powerfully conveys the theme of **divine justice and consequences**. It demonstrates that God is faithful to His word, not only in blessing but also in bringing forth the promised consequences for sustained rebellion. The suffering and exile of Judah were thus not arbitrary acts but a just and righteous response to their persistent unfaithfulness.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **covenant (Hebrew, _bᵉrîyth'_):** From H1285, this term refers to a solemn, binding agreement or treaty, often established by "cutting" (referencing the ancient practice of cutting animals in half and parties walking between them). In the context of Israel, it signifies the unique and sacred relationship God initiated with His people at Mount Sinai, based on His promises and their required obedience. To forsake this covenant was to abandon the very foundation of their national and spiritual identity, severing the bond with the LORD.
* **forsaken (Hebrew, _ʻâzab'_):** From H5800, this primitive root means "to loosen, i.e. relinquish, permit, etc." It implies a deliberate and conscious abandonment, a turning away from, or a leaving behind. In Jeremiah 22:9, it denotes Judah's active and intentional rejection of their foundational commitment to the LORD, rather than a passive or accidental lapse. This was a willful act of disloyalty.
* **worshipped (Hebrew, _shâchâh'_):** From H7812, this root means "to depress, i.e. prostrate (especially reflexive, in homage to royalty or God)." It describes the act of bowing down or prostrating oneself in reverence, homage, or adoration. When applied to "other gods," it signifies the ultimate act of betrayal against the LORD, transferring the exclusive devotion due to Him to false deities, an act of spiritual adultery.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Then they shall answer":** This phrase anticipates the response given by "many nations" (mentioned in [Jeremiah 22:8](/jeremiah/22-8 "Jeremiah 22:8 - The Question of Judgment")) who will inquire why the great city of Jerusalem has been so devastated. It signifies that the reason for Judah's judgment will be universally known and understood, not a mystery. The answer is direct and unequivocal, coming from a divine perspective, revealing God's just cause.
* **"Because they have forsaken the covenant of the LORD their God":** This is the primary and foundational reason for Judah's downfall. The "covenant" refers specifically to the Mosaic Covenant, which established Israel's unique relationship with Yahweh and outlined the terms of their obedience and the consequences of their disobedience. To "forsake" this covenant means a deliberate and active abandonment of their loyalty and commitment to God, rejecting the very basis of their existence as His chosen people. This was not a minor transgression but a fundamental betrayal of their identity and purpose.
* **"and worshipped other gods, and served them":** This clause specifies the practical manifestation of their covenant breach. Their forsaking of the LORD was directly evidenced by their turning to idolatry. "Worshipped" (prostrating themselves before) and "served" (devoting their lives, resources, and allegiance to) other gods indicates a full and active allegiance to pagan deities, which were explicitly forbidden by the covenant. This highlights the pervasive nature of their spiritual adultery and the depth of their rebellion against the one true God, demonstrating a complete transfer of devotion.

#### Literary Devices
Jeremiah 22:9 employs several potent literary devices to convey its message of judgment with clarity and force. The verse functions as a direct **answer** to the rhetorical question posed in the preceding verse, creating a powerful **cause-and-effect** relationship: the desolation is the effect, and Judah's unfaithfulness is the cause. This structure emphasizes divine justice and the logical consequences of disobedience. The repetition of actions related to false worship – "worshipped other gods, and served them" – creates a form of **parallelism** or **hendiadys**, underscoring the comprehensive nature of their idolatry, encompassing both ritualistic homage (worship) and practical devotion (service). The phrase "the covenant of the LORD their God" uses **apposition** to clarify the specific nature of the forsaken agreement, highlighting the intimate and personal relationship that was betrayed. The entire verse serves as a concise **summary statement** of Judah's guilt, functioning as a theological explanation for the national catastrophe and reinforcing the prophetic message of impending doom.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Jeremiah 22:9 profoundly underscores the gravity of covenant faithfulness and the severe consequences of spiritual apostasy. It reveals God's unwavering commitment to His covenant, not only in its promises of blessing but also in its warnings of judgment. The nation's deliberate choice to abandon the LORD and embrace idolatry demonstrates a fundamental misunderstanding of God's exclusive claim on His people and His holiness. This verse serves as a timeless reminder that true worship demands undivided allegiance and that turning to "other gods"—whether literal idols or contemporary substitutes like materialism, power, self-reliance, or even comfort—inevitably leads to spiritual desolation and divine discipline. It reflects God's character as both loving and just, upholding the integrity of His word and demonstrating that His warnings are not idle threats but expressions of His righteous governance.

* [Deuteronomy 28:15](/deuteronomy/28-15 "Consequences of Disobedience")
* [Joshua 24:20](/joshua/24-20 "Consequences of Forsaking God")
* [1 Kings 11:9-11](/1_kings/11-9-11 "1 Kings 11:9-11 - Solomon's Idolatry and Its Consequences")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Jeremiah 22:9, though rooted in ancient Judah's historical context, resonates with profound relevance for believers today. It serves as a stark warning against spiritual complacency and the insidious nature of idolatry. While we may not bow before physical statues, modern "gods" often manifest as anything that displaces God from the supreme position in our hearts and lives—be it career, comfort, relationships, wealth, technology, or even self-image and personal ambition. This verse calls us to a radical self-examination, prompting us to identify and dismantle any idols that have subtly crept into our lives, demanding our time, energy, and devotion more than God Himself. It reminds us that our relationship with God is a covenant, a sacred commitment requiring exclusive allegiance and obedience, and that straying from this commitment carries spiritual consequences, hindering our flourishing and fellowship with Him. Ultimately, it calls us to an undivided devotion to the LORD, recognizing Him as the sole source of true life, lasting joy, and eternal blessing, and to actively choose His ways over the fleeting allure of the world.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **What "other gods" might I be worshipping or serving in my life, even subtly, that detract from my devotion to the LORD?**
* **In what ways might I be "forsaking the covenant" with God in my daily choices or priorities, perhaps unknowingly?**
* **How does understanding God's justice in Jeremiah 22:9 deepen my appreciation for His mercy and grace in my own life, particularly through Christ?**
* **What practical steps can I take to cultivate a more undivided devotion to the LORD and guard against modern forms of idolatry in my thoughts, words, and actions?**

### FAQ

**What does "forsaken the covenant of the LORD their God" mean in practical terms for ancient Judah?**

Answer: For ancient Judah, "forsaking the covenant" meant a comprehensive abandonment of the terms and spirit of the Mosaic Covenant established at Mount Sinai. Practically, this involved several key aspects: They turned away from exclusive worship of Yahweh and actively engaged in the worship of pagan deities like Baal, Asherah, and Molech, often incorporating their practices into daily life and even temple rituals (e.g., [2 Kings 21:3-7](/2_kings/21-3-7 "2 Kings 21:3-7 - Manasseh's Idolatry")). The covenant also mandated social justice, care for the poor, and righteous governance. Jeremiah's prophecies are replete with condemnations of the kings and people for oppression, corruption, and exploitation of the vulnerable (e.g., [Jeremiah 22:3](/jeremiah/22-3 "Jeremiah 22:3 - Do Justice and Righteousness")). God repeatedly sent prophets like Jeremiah to call them back to the covenant, but their persistent refusal to repent demonstrated their deliberate forsaking of His word and will (e.g., [Jeremiah 7:25-26](/jeremiah/7-25-26 "Jeremiah 7:25-26 - Disobedience to the Prophets")). In essence, it meant a national spiritual rebellion that permeated all aspects of their society, leading to the severe consequences outlined in the covenant itself (e.g., [Deuteronomy 28:15-68](/deuteronomy/28-15-68 "Deuteronomy 28 - Curses for Disobedience")).

**Why is "worshipping other gods and serving them" highlighted as a key reason for judgment?**

Answer: The worship and service of "other gods" were highlighted as a key reason for judgment because it represented the ultimate act of spiritual treason and a direct violation of the foundational principles of the Mosaic Covenant. The covenant was predicated on Israel's exclusive relationship with Yahweh, who had delivered them from slavery in Egypt (e.g., [Exodus 20:2](/exodus/20-2 "Exodus 20:2 - I Am the LORD Your God")). To worship other gods was to deny His unique sovereignty, power, and faithfulness. It was a rejection of the very identity God had given them as His chosen people, a spiritual adultery that broke the most sacred bond. Furthermore, the pagan practices often involved immoral rituals, child sacrifice, and social injustices that were anathema to God's holy character and His moral law (e.g., [Leviticus 18:21](/leviticus/18-21 "Leviticus 18:21 - Prohibition of Child Sacrifice")). Thus, this act was not merely a religious transgression but a comprehensive moral and relational betrayal that necessitated divine judgment, demonstrating a complete abandonment of God's rightful claim.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Jeremiah 22:9, with its stark declaration of judgment for a broken covenant and pervasive idolatry, finds its ultimate Christ-centered fulfillment in the person and redemptive work of Jesus Christ. The Old Covenant, which Judah so grievously forsook, revealed humanity's inherent inability to perfectly keep God's law and maintain a righteous standing before a holy God. Jesus, however, perfectly fulfilled the Law and inaugurated a [New Covenant](/jeremiah/31-31 "Jeremiah 31:31 - The New Covenant Promised"), not based on human obedience to external commands, but on His atoning sacrifice and the indwelling of the Holy Spirit. Through His death on the cross, Jesus bore the full judgment for humanity's forsaking of God and their idolatry, becoming the [Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world](/john/1-29 "John 1:29 - Jesus, the Lamb of God"). He addresses the problem of idolatry by revealing the true God in His person, drawing all people to Himself as the rightful object of worship and service (e.g., [John 14:6](/john/14-6 "John 14:6 - Jesus is the Way, the Truth, and the Life")). In Christ, believers are not merely forgiven for their past idolatry but are empowered by the Holy Spirit to live lives of true worship, serving the living God rather than the "other gods" of this world (e.g., [Romans 6:11-14](/romans/6-11-14 "Romans 6:11-14 - Dead to Sin, Alive in Christ")). The judgment pronounced in Jeremiah 22:9 for covenant breaking is fully satisfied in Christ, offering reconciliation and a renewed, eternal covenant relationship to all who believe (e.g., [Hebrews 8:6-13](/hebrews/8-6-13 "Hebrews 8:6-13 - A Superior Covenant")).

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 22:17

Because they have forsaken me, and have burned incense unto other gods, that they might provoke me to anger with all the works of their hands; therefore my wrath shall be kindled against this place, and shall not be quenched.

2 Chronicles 34:25

Because they have forsaken me, and have burned incense unto other gods, that they might provoke me to anger with all the works of their hands; therefore my wrath shall be poured out upon this place, and shall not be quenched.

Deuteronomy 29:25

Then men shall say, Because they have forsaken the covenant of the LORD God of their fathers, which he made with them when he brought them forth out of the land of Egypt:

Deuteronomy 29:28

And the LORD rooted them out of their land in anger, and in wrath, and in great indignation, and cast them into another land, as [it is] this day.

Jeremiah 40:2

And the captain of the guard took Jeremiah, and said unto him, The LORD thy God hath pronounced this evil upon this place.

Jeremiah 40:3

Now the LORD hath brought [it], and done according as he hath said: because ye have sinned against the LORD, and have not obeyed his voice, therefore this thing is come upon you.

Jeremiah 50:7

All that found them have devoured them: and their adversaries said, We offend not, because they have sinned against the LORD, the habitation of justice, even the LORD, the hope of their fathers.