Jeremiah 24:5

Thus saith the LORD, the God of Israel; Like these good figs, so will I acknowledge them that are carried away captive of Judah, whom I have sent out of this place into the land of the Chaldeans for [their] good.

Thus saith {H559} the LORD {H3068}, the God {H430} of Israel {H3478}; Like these good {H2896} figs {H8384}, so will I acknowledge {H5234} them that are carried away captive {H1546} of Judah {H3063}, whom I have sent {H7971} out of this place {H4725} into the land {H776} of the Chaldeans {H3778} for their good {H2896}.

"Here is what ADONAI the God of Isra'el says: 'I will regard the exiles from Y'hudah, whom I sent away from this place to the land of the Kasdim, as good, just as I do these good figs.

“This is what the LORD, the God of Israel, says: ‘Like these good figs, so I regard as good the exiles from Judah, whom I have sent away from this place to the land of the Chaldeans.

Thus saith Jehovah, the God of Israel: Like these good figs, so will I regard the captives of Judah, whom I have sent out of this place into the land of the Chaldeans, for good.

Commentary

Jeremiah 24:5 presents a profound and comforting declaration from the Lord, following the prophet Jeremiah's vision of two baskets of figs. This verse specifically addresses those Judeans who were already taken captive to Babylon, identifying them as the "good figs" in God's eyes, destined for a beneficial purpose despite their suffering.

Context

This verse is part of the "Parable of the Good and Bad Figs" in Jeremiah chapter 24. The vision occurred after Nebuchadnezzar's first deportation of Judeans to Babylon in 597 BC, which included King Jehoiachin, nobles, and skilled craftsmen. Jeremiah remained in Jerusalem. The "good figs" represent this initial group of exiles, whom God viewed with favor and intention for future restoration. In stark contrast, the "bad figs" (Jeremiah 24:8-10) represent those left behind in Jerusalem, including King Zedekiah, and those who fled to Egypt, whose fate would be far worse.

Key Themes

  • God's Sovereign Purpose in Suffering: The most striking theme is God's declaration that He Himself "sent" them into exile "for their good." This challenges human understanding of suffering, revealing that even national calamity can be part of a divine plan for purification and ultimate blessing. It emphasizes God's control over historical events and the sovereignty of God over all nations.
  • Divine Favor for the Exiles: While exile was a punishment for sin, this verse distinguishes between groups, showing God's specific favor and future plans for those who went into captivity. They were not abandoned but were the recipients of God's redemptive purpose, highlighting His covenant faithfulness.
  • Hope Amidst Despair: For those in Babylonian captivity, this message from God, delivered through Jeremiah, would have been a beacon of hope. It transformed their seemingly hopeless situation into an experience with a divine, positive purpose, foreshadowing a future return and renewal of God's people.

Linguistic Insights

The Hebrew word for "good" (טוֹב, tov) here signifies not merely moral goodness but also something that is pleasing, beneficial, and ultimately leads to a positive outcome. It emphasizes that the exile, though painful, was not arbitrary but purposeful and ultimately for their well-being and spiritual formation. The phrase "acknowledge them" (הִכַּרְתִּי, hikkarti) implies a deep, personal recognition and care from God, confirming His intimate involvement in their lives and circumstances, even in a foreign land.

Practical Application

Jeremiah 24:5 offers timeless reassurance that God works all things, even adverse circumstances, for the good of those who are His. Like the Judean exiles, we may find ourselves in difficult situations that seem like punishment or misfortune. This verse reminds us to look beyond immediate appearances and trust in God's overarching plan and His promise that He works all things together for good for those who love Him. It encourages resilience, faith, and a search for God's redemptive purpose in our trials, knowing that He has a future and a hope for us, as He promised in Jeremiah 29:11.

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Please note that only the commentary section is AI-generated — the main Scripture and cross-references are stored on the site and are from trusted and verified sources.

Cross-References

  • Zechariah 13:9 (4 votes)

    And I will bring the third part through the fire, and will refine them as silver is refined, and will try them as gold is tried: they shall call on my name, and I will hear them: I will say, It [is] my people: and they shall say, The LORD [is] my God.

  • Nahum 1:7 (3 votes)

    The LORD [is] good, a strong hold in the day of trouble; and he knoweth them that trust in him.

  • 1 Corinthians 8:3 (2 votes)

    But if any man love God, the same is known of him.

  • Matthew 25:12 (2 votes)

    But he answered and said, Verily I say unto you, I know you not.

  • Galatians 4:9 (2 votes)

    But now, after that ye have known God, or rather are known of God, how turn ye again to the weak and beggarly elements, whereunto ye desire again to be in bondage?

  • Psalms 119:67 (2 votes)

    ¶ Before I was afflicted I went astray: but now have I kept thy word.

  • Psalms 94:12 (2 votes)

    ¶ Blessed [is] the man whom thou chastenest, O LORD, and teachest him out of thy law;