Jeremiah 23:12

KJV

Wherefore their way shall be unto them as slippery [ways] in the darkness: they shall be driven on, and fall therein: for I will bring evil upon them, [even] the year of their visitation, saith the LORD.

KJV (with Strong's)

Wherefore their way {H1870} shall be unto them as slippery {H2519} ways in the darkness {H653}: they shall be driven on {H1760}, and fall {H5307} therein: for I will bring {H935} evil {H7451} upon them, even the year {H8141} of their visitation {H6486}, saith {H5002} the LORD {H3068}.

Complete Jewish Bible

"Therefore their way will be slippery for them; they will be driven into darkness and fall there. For I will bring disaster upon them, their year of punishment," says ADONAI.

Berean Standard Bible

“Therefore their path will become slick; they will be driven away into the darkness and fall into it. For I will bring disaster upon them in the year of their punishment,” declares the LORD.

American Standard Version

Wherefore their way shall be unto them as slippery places in the darkness: they shall be driven on, and fall therein; for I will bring evil upon them, even the year of their visitation, saith Jehovah.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Jeremiah 23:12 delivers a stark prophetic judgment from the LORD against the corrupt leaders and false prophets of Judah. It vividly portrays their inevitable downfall, describing their path as treacherous and dark, leading them to be driven into ruin and to fall irrevocably. This divine pronouncement underscores God's active role in bringing calamity and a decisive reckoning upon those who have willfully led His people astray through their deceit and wickedness, signifying a divinely appointed time of severe accountability.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is deeply embedded within Jeremiah's extensive condemnation of the false prophets and unfaithful "shepherds" (leaders) of Judah, primarily found in [Jeremiah 23](/jeremiah/23 "Jeremiah 23 - The True and False Shepherds"). The preceding verses (e.g., [Jeremiah 23:9-11](/jeremiah/23-9 "Jeremiah 23:9-11 - God's Grief Over False Prophets")) express God's profound sorrow and anger over the profanity, immorality, and deceptive practices of these spiritual guides. They have prophesied lies in God's name, profaned the land, and led the people into idolatry and sin. Verse 12 serves as the direct, inescapable consequence of their actions, a divine declaration of the severe judgment that will befall them for their spiritual corruption and their failure to lead the nation righteously. It contrasts sharply with the promise of true, righteous shepherds and the coming "Branch of Righteousness" in [Jeremiah 23:1-8](/jeremiah/23-1 "Jeremiah 23:1-8 - The Promise of a Righteous Branch"), highlighting the urgent need for divine intervention.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** Jeremiah's ministry spanned a tumultuous period in Judah's history, from the late 7th to early 6th century BCE, leading up to the Babylonian exile. The nation was plagued by political instability, moral decay, and rampant idolatry, often disguised by outward religious observance. False prophets, often motivated by self-interest or a desire for popularity, offered comforting but deceptive messages of peace and prosperity, directly contradicting Jeremiah's warnings of impending judgment and exile (e.g., [Jeremiah 6:13-15](/jeremiah/6-13 "Jeremiah 6:13-15 - False Peace and Shame")). Culturally, the role of a prophet was crucial as a direct messenger from God, and the corruption of this office was a grave offense, undermining the spiritual foundation of the nation. The "year of their visitation" would have resonated with the people as a familiar concept of a divinely appointed time of reckoning, often associated with national disaster or invasion, a common theme in prophetic literature (e.g., [Isaiah 10:3](/isaiah/10-3 "Isaiah 10:3 - The Day of Visitation")).
* **Key Themes:** Jeremiah 23:12 powerfully contributes to several overarching themes in the book of Jeremiah and the broader prophetic tradition. It emphasizes **Divine Judgment**, portraying God as actively bringing calamity upon the wicked, particularly those in positions of spiritual authority who abuse their trust. This judgment is a direct **Consequence of False Prophecy and Sin**, illustrating the severe and unavoidable repercussions for those who mislead others and live in rebellion against God's truth. The imagery of "slippery ways in the darkness" highlights **Spiritual Blindness and Instability**, depicting the perilous and ultimately destructive path of those who lack divine guidance and reject God's true word. Despite the chaos and deception wrought by human sin, the verse firmly asserts **God's Sovereignty**, demonstrating that He remains in control, orchestrating a precise "year of their visitation" or reckoning, ensuring that justice will ultimately prevail, as reiterated throughout [Jeremiah's prophecies](/jeremiah/1 "Jeremiah 1 - The Call of Jeremiah").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **way (Hebrew, _derek'_):** From H1870, this word signifies a road or path, but figuratively, it refers to a course of life or a mode of action. In this context, it describes the moral and spiritual trajectory of the false prophets, indicating that their chosen lifestyle and deceptive practices constitute a perilous and ultimately destructive "way."
* **slippery (Hebrew, _chălaqlaqqâh'_):** From H2519, this term denotes something very smooth, implying a treacherous or unstable spot. It vividly describes the inherent danger and lack of firm footing in the path chosen by the false prophets, emphasizing the deceptive and perilous nature of their spiritual and moral standing.
* **visitation (Hebrew, _pᵉquddâh'_):** From H6486, this feminine passive participle refers to an official inspection or reckoning. While it can sometimes denote a time of blessing, here it unequivocally signifies a time of punishment, accountability, and divine intervention for judgment. It marks a divinely appointed period when God will settle accounts with the unrighteous.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Wherefore their way shall be unto them as slippery [ways] in the darkness:"** This clause establishes the perilous nature of the false prophets' chosen path. Their "way" (their conduct, their teachings, their lives) is inherently unstable and dangerous, likened to a path that offers no secure footing. The addition of "in the darkness" intensifies the imagery, suggesting spiritual ignorance, moral blindness, and a complete lack of divine illumination, making their fall not just possible but inevitable.
* **"they shall be driven on, and fall therein:"** This depicts the active force of divine judgment propelling them towards their doom. They are not merely stumbling; they are "driven on," implying an irresistible, divinely orchestrated momentum towards their destruction. The consequence is explicit: they "fall therein," signifying a complete and irreversible collapse into the very ruin their "slippery ways" have prepared.
* **"for I will bring evil upon them, [even] the year of their visitation, saith the LORD."** This final clause provides the divine rationale and authority for the preceding imagery. The "evil" (Hebrew: _ra'_, H7451) here refers not to moral evil but to calamity, disaster, or misfortune brought about by God's judgment. It is not an accident but a deliberate act of God. The phrase "the year of their visitation" (Hebrew: _shâneh pᵉquddâh_, H8141, H6486) specifies a divinely appointed time of reckoning and punishment, a precise moment when God will intervene to execute justice. The concluding "saith the LORD" (Hebrew: _nᵉʼum Yᵉhôvâh_, H5002, H3068) serves as an authoritative divine stamp, guaranteeing the certainty and immutability of this prophecy.

#### Literary Devices
Jeremiah 23:12 is rich in literary devices that enhance its prophetic impact. The most prominent is **Simile**, where the "way" of the false prophets is explicitly compared to "slippery ways in the darkness." This vivid **Imagery** evokes a sense of extreme peril, instability, and inevitable downfall, painting a picture of someone losing their footing on a treacherous path in absolute obscurity. The phrase "they shall be driven on" employs **Passive Voice** to emphasize the irresistible force of divine judgment, suggesting that the prophets are not merely choosing to fall but are being propelled by an external, superior power. The declaration "for I will bring evil upon them" is a direct **Divine Pronouncement**, highlighting God's active agency and sovereignty in executing justice. The entire verse functions as a **Prophecy of Judgment**, delivering a solemn warning of the certain consequences for spiritual corruption and deception.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Jeremiah 23:12 powerfully articulates the biblical principle of divine accountability, particularly for those entrusted with spiritual leadership. It underscores that God is not indifferent to sin, especially when it involves misleading His people. The "slippery ways" symbolize the moral decay and spiritual instability that result from abandoning God's truth, while the "darkness" represents the absence of divine light and guidance, leading to inevitable ruin. This verse serves as a stark reminder that while God is patient, there is a divinely appointed "year of visitation" when judgment will be meted out. This concept reflects God's unchanging character as both merciful and just, ensuring that righteousness will ultimately prevail and that those who corrupt His flock will face severe consequences. It also highlights the profound danger of spiritual deception, emphasizing the need for discernment and adherence to God's authentic word.

* [Proverbs 4:19](/proverbs/4-19 "Proverbs 4:19 - The Way of the Wicked")
* [Psalm 73:18](/psalms/73-18 "Psalm 73:18 - God Sets Them in Slippery Places")
* [Isaiah 10:3](/isaiah/10-3 "The Day of Visitation")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Jeremiah 23:12 offers profound lessons for believers today, particularly concerning spiritual leadership and personal integrity. It calls us to a rigorous discernment, urging us to test all teachings against the clear light of God's Word, rather than blindly following those who offer comforting but unbiblical messages. The imagery of "slippery ways in the darkness" is a timeless metaphor for any life lived without the firm foundation of God's truth and guidance, inevitably leading to moral compromise and spiritual collapse. For those in positions of influence, this verse serves as a sober warning: accountability is certain, and the impact of one's actions, whether for good or ill, will be met with divine reckoning. It compels us to walk in humility, seeking God's wisdom and upholding righteousness, trusting that His justice will ultimately prevail, even when evil seems to prosper.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does the imagery of "slippery ways in the darkness" challenge my own walk with God? Am I seeking God's light to guide my path, or am I prone to spiritual compromise?**
* **In what ways might I be susceptible to "false prophets" or deceptive messages in today's world, and how can I cultivate greater discernment?**
* **If I am in a leadership position, how does this verse impress upon me the weight of my responsibility and the certainty of divine accountability?**
* **How does the concept of a "year of visitation" strengthen my faith in God's ultimate justice, even when I observe injustice in the world?**

### FAQ
**Who are "they" in Jeremiah 23:12?**

Answer: "They" primarily refers to the false prophets and unfaithful "shepherds" or leaders of Judah whom Jeremiah condemns throughout [Jeremiah 23](/jeremiah/23 "Jeremiah 23 - The True and False Shepherds"). These individuals were entrusted with guiding God's people but instead led them astray through their lies, immorality, and self-serving prophecies. They are contrasted with the true shepherds whom God promises to raise up (e.g., [Jeremiah 23:4](/jeremiah/23-4 "Jeremiah 23:4 - God Will Appoint True Shepherds")).

**What does "slippery ways in the darkness" signify?**

Answer: This powerful metaphor describes the perilous and unstable spiritual and moral condition of the false prophets. "Slippery ways" (Hebrew: _chălaqlaqqâh_) indicates a path that offers no secure footing, leading to an inevitable fall. "In the darkness" (Hebrew: _ʼăphêlâh_) signifies spiritual blindness, ignorance of God's truth, and a lack of divine guidance. Together, they illustrate a life and ministry devoid of God's light and truth, characterized by deception and moral corruption, which naturally leads to ruin and judgment. This imagery is also used elsewhere in scripture to describe the perilous path of the wicked, as seen in [Psalm 73:18](/psalms/73-18 "Psalm 73:18 - God Sets Them in Slippery Places").

**What is "the year of their visitation"?**

Answer: "The year of their visitation" (Hebrew: _shâneh pᵉquddâh_) refers to a divinely appointed time of reckoning, inspection, and punishment. While "visitation" can sometimes imply blessing, in this context, it unequivocally signifies a season of divine judgment and accountability for the false prophets' wickedness. It is the time when God will intervene to settle accounts and bring about the promised calamity (Hebrew: _ra'_) upon them, demonstrating His sovereignty and justice. This concept of a "day of visitation" is a recurring theme in prophetic literature, signifying a time when God's justice is revealed, as in [Isaiah 10:3](/isaiah/10-3 "The Day of Visitation").

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Jeremiah 23:12, with its stark warning against false shepherds and their "slippery ways in the darkness," finds its ultimate fulfillment and counterpoint in Jesus Christ. While the Old Testament prophets warned of a coming "visitation" of judgment, Christ's first coming was primarily a "visitation" of grace and salvation, offering a way out of the darkness. Jesus Himself warned against false prophets, describing them by their fruits, much like Jeremiah ([Matthew 7:15-20](/matthew/7-15 "Matthew 7:15-20 - Beware of False Prophets")). He is the **True Shepherd** who lays down His life for the sheep, in stark contrast to the unfaithful shepherds who scattered and devoured the flock ([John 10:11-18](/john/10-11 "John 10:11-18 - The Good Shepherd")). Furthermore, Jesus declared, "I am the way, the truth, and the life" ([John 14:6](/john/14-6 "John 14:6 - Jesus, the Way, the Truth, and the Life")), presenting Himself as the firm, unshakeable path out of the "slippery ways in the darkness" that lead to destruction. Through His atoning sacrifice, He offers forgiveness and a secure footing for all who believe, delivering them from the "evil" of God's righteous judgment. His return will mark the ultimate "year of visitation," bringing final judgment upon all who reject Him and ushering in His eternal kingdom.

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

Jeremiah 13:16

Give glory to the LORD your God, before he cause darkness, and before your feet stumble upon the dark mountains, and, while ye look for light, he turn it into the shadow of death, [and] make [it] gross darkness.

Psalms 35:6

Let their way be dark and slippery: and let the angel of the LORD persecute them.

Proverbs 4:19

The way of the wicked [is] as darkness: they know not at what they stumble.

Jeremiah 11:23

And there shall be no remnant of them: for I will bring evil upon the men of Anathoth, [even] the year of their visitation.

Psalms 73:18

Surely thou didst set them in slippery places: thou castedst them down into destruction.

Exodus 32:34

Therefore now go, lead the people unto [the place] of which I have spoken unto thee: behold, mine Angel shall go before thee: nevertheless in the day when I visit I will visit their sin upon them.

Isaiah 8:22

And they shall look unto the earth; and behold trouble and darkness, dimness of anguish; and [they shall be] driven to darkness.