Jeremiah 30:5

KJV

For thus saith the LORD; We have heard a voice of trembling, of fear, and not of peace.

KJV (with Strong's)

For thus saith {H559} the LORD {H3068}; We have heard {H8085} a voice {H6963} of trembling {H2731}, of fear {H6343}, and not of peace {H7965}.

Complete Jewish Bible

Here is what ADONAI says: "We have heard a cry of terror, of fear and not of peace.

Berean Standard Bible

Yes, this is what the LORD says: “A cry of panic is heard— a cry of terror, not of peace.

American Standard Version

For thus saith Jehovah: We have heard a voice of trembling, of fear, and not of peace.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Jeremiah 30:5 delivers a stark and authoritative divine declaration from the LORD, unveiling a future for the people of Israel and Judah marked by profound distress, pervasive fear, and the complete absence of holistic well-being. This verse serves as a chilling and essential prelude to the "Book of Consolation" (Jeremiah 30-33), emphasizing the severe judgment and widespread terror that would necessarily precede God's ultimate restoration and the establishment of a new covenant, thereby underscoring the gravity of their rebellion and the certainty of divine discipline.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Jeremiah 30:5 is strategically positioned at the very threshold of what biblical scholars often term the "Book of Consolation" (chapters 30-33), a section celebrated for its profound promises of future restoration, hope, and the eventual New Covenant. However, before the glorious promises of return and renewal can be fully appreciated, the text first confronts the harsh reality of impending judgment. This verse immediately follows a divine command to Jeremiah to meticulously record all the words spoken to him in a book ([Jeremiah 30:2](/jeremiah/30-2 "Jeremiah 30:2 - Command to Write")), signaling the immense prophetic weight and enduring significance of the message. It sets a somber, almost terrifying, tone, indicating the profound suffering and fear that would be experienced by Jacob (Israel) before the promised deliverance. This serves as a direct foreshadowing of the "time of Jacob's trouble" explicitly mentioned just two verses later in [Jeremiah 30:7](/jeremiah/30-7 "Jeremiah 30:7 - The Time of Jacob's Trouble"). The initial declaration of widespread fear and the utter lack of peace thus functions as a necessary dark backdrop against which the future light of God's grace and redemptive work will shine with even greater brilliance and poignancy.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** Jeremiah's prophetic ministry unfolded during one of the most tumultuous and pivotal periods in Judah's history, spanning the reigns of several kings from Josiah to Zedekiah, culminating in the devastating Babylonian exile. This era was characterized by severe political instability, rampant spiritual apostasy, and the overwhelming geopolitical threat posed by ascendant empires like Assyria and, most notably, Babylon. The people of Judah had repeatedly and flagrantly violated their covenant with Yahweh, engaging in widespread idolatry, egregious social injustice, and a superficial, ritualistic religiosity devoid of true heart devotion. The "voice of trembling, of fear, and not of peace" directly reflects the existential dread and national crisis that would engulf Judah as Babylon besieged and ultimately destroyed Jerusalem in 586 BC, leading to the forced deportation of its inhabitants. Culturally, the concept of "peace" (Hebrew: _shalom_) was not merely the absence of conflict but a foundational and comprehensive term encompassing holistic well-being, prosperity, security, and right relationships—both human and divine. The divine declaration that there would be "not of peace" was, therefore, a devastating indictment, signifying a complete breakdown of societal order, divine favor, and personal security, a direct and just consequence of their persistent covenant unfaithfulness.
* **Key Themes:** This verse powerfully contributes to several overarching themes that permeate the book of Jeremiah and the broader prophetic corpus. Firstly, it highlights the theme of **Divine Judgment and Consequence**, emphasizing that God's justice is unwavering and that rebellion against His covenant leads to severe, inevitable repercussions. The widespread fear and the profound absence of peace are presented as direct and righteous outcomes of Judah's deep-seated sin. Secondly, it underscores the theme of the **Sovereignty of God**, as the authoritative phrase "thus saith the LORD" asserts God's ultimate control over all historical events, even those involving profound suffering and destruction. He is not a passive observer but an active declarant and orchestrator of these circumstances. Thirdly, by starkly contrasting the present state of terror with the glorious future promises of restoration found in the subsequent verses of the "Book of Consolation," it subtly yet powerfully introduces the theme of **Hope Through Discipline**. The suffering described here, while undeniably severe, is not depicted as the final word; rather, it is presented as a necessary crucible through which God refines and purifies His people, preparing them for a renewed and deeper relationship, as vividly seen in the promise of a new covenant in [Jeremiah 31:31](/jeremiah/31-31 "Jeremiah 31:31 - The New Covenant"). The experience of profound fear and the utter lack of _shalom_ serves a redemptive purpose: to humble the people, expose their idolatry, and ultimately turn their hearts back to the only true source of peace and security.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **trembling (Hebrew, _chărâdâh'_):** This feminine noun (H2731), derived from the root meaning to tremble or quake, denotes a deep, unsettling fear, anxiety, or even a physical quaking. It speaks to an internal agitation and terror that grips an individual or, as in this context, an entire nation. The use of this word emphasizes a visceral, almost physical response to dread, indicating a profound sense of insecurity and impending doom that permeates the very being of the people.
* **fear (Hebrew, _pachad'_):** From a root meaning to dread or be terrified, _pachad_ (H6343) refers to a sudden alarm, the object that causes such dread, or the overwhelming feeling of terror itself. While _chărâdâh_ might describe the internal state of agitation, _pachad_ often points more directly to the external cause or the intense, sudden onset of terror. Its inclusion alongside "trembling" creates a powerful rhetorical doubling, intensifying the description of widespread panic and existential dread that would seize the people.
* **peace (Hebrew, _shâlôwm'_):** This highly significant Hebrew term (H7965), often translated simply as "peace," carries a much broader and richer meaning than its English equivalent. Derived from a root meaning to be complete or whole, _shâlôwm_ encompasses holistic well-being, prosperity, health, safety, security, contentment, and harmonious relationships with God and others. Its stated absence ("not of peace") signifies a complete breakdown of all these elements—a state of utter desolation, insecurity, and divine disfavor, where wholeness and flourishing are utterly shattered.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"For thus saith the LORD":** This opening phrase is a powerful and frequently used prophetic formula, known as a "messenger formula." It immediately establishes the divine origin and absolute authoritative nature of the message that follows. This is not merely Jeremiah's personal opinion, observation, or human speculation, but a direct, unadulterated word from Yahweh, the covenant God of Israel. It underscores the certainty, inevitability, and divine decree behind what is about to be declared, leaving no room for doubt regarding its truth or fulfillment.
* **"We have heard a voice of trembling":** The plural "We" here refers to the divine council or God speaking in the majestic plural, emphasizing the collective divine awareness, decree, and unified resolve regarding the impending judgment. The "voice" is not necessarily an audible sound emanating from the people but a profound metaphorical representation of the pervasive atmosphere and collective experience of the nation. This "voice of trembling" signifies a widespread, palpable sense of deep agitation, fear, and internal quaking that would characterize the people's state. It speaks to a profound national anxiety, dread, and a deeply unsettling internal turmoil.
* **"of fear":** This phrase serves to intensify and amplify the preceding "trembling." The repetition and deliberate juxtaposition of these two strong terms ("trembling" and "fear") function as a powerful rhetorical device, designed to underscore the overwhelming, inescapable, and pervasive nature of the terror that would grip the people. It is not a fleeting or minor emotion but a pervasive, all-consuming condition of dread and panic that would define their experience.
* **"and not of peace":** This is the stark, devastating concluding contrast. The explicit negation of _shâlôwm_ is a declaration of profound judgment. It means far more than just the absence of war or conflict; it signifies a complete lack of wholeness, well-being, security, prosperity, and harmonious relationship with God. This phrase encapsulates the full extent of the divine judgment: a state of utter brokenness, profound insecurity, and divine disfavor, where all elements of true flourishing and contentment are conspicuously and tragically absent.

#### Literary Devices
Jeremiah 30:5 employs several potent literary devices to convey its message with maximum impact and theological weight. **Divine Speech** is paramount, immediately signaled by the authoritative "thus saith the LORD," which elevates the pronouncement beyond human conjecture to an infallible divine decree. The phrase "voice of trembling, of fear" utilizes **Metonymy**, where the "voice" stands for the collective experience or pervasive manifestation of these intense emotions. It is not a literal sound but the palpable, all-encompassing atmosphere of dread that would grip the nation. The repetition of "trembling" and "fear" creates powerful **Emphasis** through **Synonymous Parallelism**, intensifying the depiction of national anguish and ensuring the reader grasps the profound depth and inescapable nature of the impending terror. Finally, the concluding "and not of peace" provides a stark **Antithesis** or **Contrast** to what is desired, what should ideally be present, and what God ultimately desires for His people. This explicit negation of _shalom_ powerfully highlights the severity of the judgment and the complete absence of well-being, making the future promises of peace and restoration in later verses all the more poignant and desperately longed for.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Jeremiah 30:5 serves as a profound theological statement on the inexorable consequences of covenant unfaithfulness and the just nature of divine judgment. It underscores the fundamental truth that true peace (_shalom_) is ultimately a sovereign gift from God, and its absence is a direct and inevitable result of turning away from Him. The vivid imagery of a "voice of trembling, of fear, and not of peace" powerfully portrays the spiritual and existential bankruptcy that inevitably ensues when a nation, or indeed an individual, persistently rebels against divine truth and righteousness. This state of profound distress is not arbitrary or capricious but a just and necessary consequence, often intended by God to bring about deep repentance and a transformative return to the Lord. Yet, within the broader, redemptive context of the "Book of Consolation," this judgment is presented not as an ultimate end but as a painful, necessary prelude to a glorious restoration. It highlights God's unwavering commitment to His covenant people, even through the crucible of discipline, ultimately leading to a deeper, more profound peace rooted in a renewed and purified relationship with Him.

* [Leviticus 26:36](/leviticus/26-36 "Leviticus 26:36 - Consequences of Disobedience")
* [Deuteronomy 28:65-67](/deuteronomy/28-65-67 "Deuteronomy 28:65-67 - Curses for Disobedience")
* [Isaiah 57:21](/isaiah/57-21 "Isaiah 57:21 - No Peace for the Wicked")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Jeremiah 30:5 stands as a powerful and timeless reminder that turning away from God's righteous ways inevitably leads to a profound loss of true peace and an increase in fear, anxiety, and internal turmoil. While this verse primarily describes a specific historical judgment upon ancient Israel, its underlying spiritual principles resonate deeply with the human experience across all generations. When individuals or societies reject divine wisdom, moral order, and the covenant relationship with their Creator, they often find themselves adrift in a sea of uncertainty, fear, and internal disquiet, lacking the comprehensive, holistic well-being that God intends. This verse challenges us to consider where our true security and lasting peace are found. Are we building our lives on foundations that can withstand the inevitable storms of life, or are we pursuing paths that ultimately lead to spiritual emptiness, dread, and a shattered _shalom_? It calls us to a sober and honest assessment of our own lives, our priorities, and our allegiances, urging us to diligently seek God's presence, obey His commands, and align our hearts with His will, for only in Him can genuine, enduring _shalom_ be found amidst the world's anxieties.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what areas of your life do you personally experience a "voice of trembling" or "fear," and how might these relate to your current relationship with God?**
* **What does "peace" (_shalom_) truly mean to you in its fullest biblical sense, and how does its absence manifest in your personal life or within your community?**
* **How does understanding God's judgment, as described here, as a painful but ultimately redemptive pathway to greater restoration change your perspective on difficult times and suffering?**
* **Considering the world's pervasive anxieties, what practical, intentional steps can you take to cultivate a deeper, more abiding sense of God's peace in your daily life?**

### FAQ
**What is the "voice of trembling, of fear" referring to in this verse?**

Answer: The "voice of trembling, of fear" is a powerful metaphorical expression referring to the pervasive atmosphere and collective experience of profound dread, anxiety, and panic that would grip the people of Judah. It signifies a widespread national crisis, a deep internal agitation, and an overwhelming sense of terror that would precede and accompany the Babylonian exile. It's not a literal audible voice, but rather the palpable manifestation of a nation consumed by fear and insecurity due to divine judgment. This premonition of anguish is further elaborated in [Jeremiah 30:7](/jeremiah/30-7 "Jeremiah 30:7 - The Time of Jacob's Trouble"), which speaks of the "time of Jacob's trouble."

**Why is it explicitly stated "and not of peace"? What does "peace" mean here?**

Answer: The phrase "and not of peace" is a crucial and devastating negation. The Hebrew word for peace, _shâlôwm_ (H7965), is far more comprehensive than the English "peace." It denotes holistic well-being, encompassing health, prosperity, safety, security, contentment, and harmonious relationships with God and others. Therefore, "not of peace" signifies a complete breakdown of all these elements. It means the absence of true wholeness—a state of utter desolation, insecurity, and divine disfavor, where all aspects of flourishing are shattered. This highlights the severity of God's judgment and the devastating consequences of Israel's rebellion against Him.

**Is this verse only about historical judgment, or does it have relevance for today?**

Answer: While Jeremiah 30:5 primarily describes a specific historical judgment upon ancient Judah leading to the Babylonian exile, its underlying theological principles have profound and enduring relevance for all times. It teaches that disobedience and turning away from God inevitably lead to a loss of true peace and an increase in fear and anxiety. Spiritually, when individuals or communities reject God's truth and commands, they often experience an internal "voice of trembling" and a lack of _shalom_. The verse serves as a timeless warning about the consequences of sin and a powerful reminder that genuine, lasting peace is ultimately found only in a right relationship with God, as promised by Jesus in [John 14:27](/john/14-27 "John 14:27 - Jesus' Promise of Peace").

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Jeremiah 30:5, with its stark pronouncement of a "voice of trembling, of fear, and not of peace," vividly portrays humanity's fallen condition and the devastating consequences of sin—a world alienated from God, gripped by anxiety, and utterly devoid of true _shalom_. This desperate state, however, finds its ultimate answer and glorious fulfillment in the person and work of Jesus Christ. He is the one through whom God definitively addresses the very issues of fear, divine judgment, and the profound absence of peace that plague humanity. While the Old Testament prophets foretold a time of divine wrath, they also pointed with unwavering hope to a coming Messiah who would bring everlasting peace. Jesus, the promised [Prince of Peace](/isaiah/9-6 "Isaiah 9:6 - Prophecy of the Prince of Peace"), entered a world consumed by fear and offered a peace that the world cannot give, declaring, "[Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. Not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your hearts be troubled, neither let them be afraid](/john/14-27 "John 14:27 - Jesus' Promise of Peace")." Through His atoning sacrifice on the cross, Christ bore the judgment and absorbed the fear that humanity deserved, becoming our ultimate _shalom_. He perfectly reconciled us to God, breaking down the dividing wall of hostility ([Ephesians 2:14](/ephesians/2-14 "Ephesians 2:14 - Christ Our Peace")), and offering complete forgiveness that liberates us from the fear of condemnation ([Romans 8:1](/romans/8-1 "Romans 8:1 - No Condemnation in Christ Jesus")). In Him, the trembling ceases, the fear dissipates, and the true, holistic peace of God, which surpasses all human understanding, guards our hearts and minds through Christ Jesus ([Philippians 4:7](/ philippians/4-7 "The Peace of God")). Thus, the "not of peace" described in Jeremiah finds its glorious reversal and eternal fulfillment in the person and redemptive work of Jesus Christ, the one who brings reconciliation, healing, and everlasting _shalom_ to all who believe.

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

Luke 19:41

¶ And when he was come near, he beheld the city, and wept over it,

Luke 19:44

And shall lay thee even with the ground, and thy children within thee; and they shall not leave in thee one stone upon another; because thou knewest not the time of thy visitation.

Isaiah 5:30

And in that day they shall roar against them like the roaring of the sea: and if [one] look unto the land, behold darkness [and] sorrow, and the light is darkened in the heavens thereof.

Amos 8:10

And I will turn your feasts into mourning, and all your songs into lamentation; and I will bring up sackcloth upon all loins, and baldness upon every head; and I will make it as the mourning of an only [son], and the end thereof as a bitter day.

Zephaniah 1:10

And it shall come to pass in that day, saith the LORD, [that there shall be] the noise of a cry from the fish gate, and an howling from the second, and a great crashing from the hills.

Zephaniah 1:11

Howl, ye inhabitants of Maktesh, for all the merchant people are cut down; all they that bear silver are cut off.

Jeremiah 8:19

Behold the voice of the cry of the daughter of my people because of them that dwell in a far country: [Is] not the LORD in Zion? [is] not her king in her? Why have they provoked me to anger with their graven images, [and] with strange vanities?