Jeremiah 31:23

KJV

Thus saith the LORD of hosts, the God of Israel; As yet they shall use this speech in the land of Judah and in the cities thereof, when I shall bring again their captivity; The LORD bless thee, O habitation of justice, [and] mountain of holiness.

KJV (with Strong's)

Thus saith {H559} the LORD {H3068} of hosts {H6635}, the God {H430} of Israel {H3478}; As yet they shall use {H559} this speech {H1697} in the land {H776} of Judah {H3063} and in the cities {H5892} thereof, when I shall bring again {H7725} their captivity {H7622}; The LORD {H3068} bless {H1288} thee, O habitation {H5116} of justice {H6664}, and mountain {H2022} of holiness {H6944}.

Complete Jewish Bible

Here is what ADONAI-Tzva'ot, the God of Isra'el, says: "This expression will be used again in the land of Y'hudah and its cities after I have returned their exiles: 'May ADONAI bless you, home of justice, holy mountain!'

Berean Standard Bible

This is what the LORD of Hosts, the God of Israel, says: “When I restore them from captivity, they will once again speak this word in the land of Judah and in its cities: ‘May the LORD bless you, O righteous dwelling place, O holy mountain.’

American Standard Version

Thus saith Jehovah of hosts, the God of Israel, Yet again shall they use this speech in the land of Judah and in the cities thereof, when I shall bring again their captivity: Jehovah bless thee, O habitation of righteousness, O mountain of holiness.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Jeremiah 31:23 stands as a profound prophecy within the "Book of Consolation," foretelling a future of divine restoration and spiritual renewal for the exiled people of Judah. It anticipates a time, subsequent to their return from Babylonian captivity, when the land and its cities, particularly Jerusalem, will be so profoundly transformed by God's grace that the inhabitants will spontaneously utter a blessing, recognizing Judah as a "habitation of justice" and a "mountain of holiness." This verse serves as a powerful beacon of hope, underscoring God's unwavering faithfulness to His covenant promises, even in the wake of His people's disobedience and subsequent judgment.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is strategically placed within Jeremiah's "Book of Consolation" (chapters 30-33), a pivotal section that marks a dramatic shift from prophecies of impending judgment and destruction to glorious promises of future restoration for both the northern kingdom of Israel and the southern kingdom of Judah. Preceding chapters vividly detail the reasons for God's wrath and the inevitability of exile, culminating in the destruction of Jerusalem. However, chapters 30-33 unveil a vision of hope, a new covenant, and the re-establishment of God's people in their land. Jeremiah 31 specifically elaborates on the restoration, with verses like [Jeremiah 31:10](/jeremiah/31-10 "Jeremiah 31:10 - Hear the Word of the LORD") speaking of God gathering His scattered flock and [Jeremiah 31:12](/jeremiah/31-12 "Jeremiah 31:12 - Abundant Blessings") promising abundant joy and flourishing. Verse 23, therefore, serves as a concrete manifestation of this promised renewal, illustrating the profound spiritual and moral transformation that will accompany their physical return to the land.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The prophetic ministry of Jeremiah unfolded during one of the most tumultuous periods in Judah's history, leading up to and encompassing the Babylonian exile (605-586 BC). The people of Judah had consistently violated their covenant obligations, leading to escalating divine judgment that culminated in the siege and destruction of Jerusalem, the Temple, and the forced deportation of its inhabitants to Babylon. Culturally, the exile was a catastrophic blow, deeply challenging their understanding of God's faithfulness, their identity as His chosen people, and the very concept of their land being a secure dwelling. The land itself lay desolate. Jeremiah 31:23 directly addresses this profound despair, promising a complete reversal of fortunes. The reference to "the land of Judah and in the cities thereof" directly acknowledges the devastated landscape, while the phrase "when I shall bring again their captivity" explicitly points to the post-exilic return, a historical event that would fundamentally reshape their national and religious life, signifying God's sovereign intervention to restore His people.

* **Key Themes:** Jeremiah 31:23 powerfully contributes to several overarching themes pervasive within the book of Jeremiah and broader biblical theology. The most prominent theme is **Divine Restoration**, emphasizing God's sovereign power to reverse even the most dire circumstances and bring His people back from exile, as vividly promised in [Jeremiah 29:10-14](/jeremiah/29-10-14 "Jeremiah 29:10-14 - God's Plans for Hope and a Future"). This restoration is not merely physical but encompasses a profound **Spiritual Transformation and Renewal**, where Judah, once marred by injustice and idolatry, will be transformed into a "habitation of justice" and a "mountain of holiness." This points to a deep moral and spiritual cleansing, a theme further developed in the promise of a [new covenant](/jeremiah/31-31-34 "Jeremiah 31:31-34 - The New Covenant") within the same chapter. The spontaneous "speech" of blessing highlights the theme of **Renewed Relationship and Worship**, signifying that the people's hearts will be turned back to God in genuine gratitude and adoration, indicative of a fully restored covenant relationship. Finally, the verse powerfully underscores God's **Unwavering Faithfulness** to His promises, demonstrating that even when His people are unfaithful, His ultimate purpose for their flourishing and His glory will prevail.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **speech (Hebrew, _dâbâr'_):** From H1697, meaning "a word; by implication, a matter (as spoken of) or thing." In this context, _dâbâr_ refers to the specific utterance or saying that the people will use. The emphasis on "speech" highlights that the blessing is not merely an internal thought but an active, public declaration, signifying a profound shift in the collective spiritual atmosphere and public discourse of the land. It denotes a return to God-honoring language and a communal affirmation of His blessing and presence.
* **habitation (Hebrew, _nâveh'_):** From H5116, meaning "(adjectively) at home; hence (by implication of satisfaction) lovely; also (noun) a home, of God (temple), men (residence), flocks (pasture), or wild animals (den)." Here, _nâveh_ denotes a secure, settled dwelling place or a flourishing pasture. When applied to Judah, "habitation of justice" suggests that the land and its cities will become a place where righteousness genuinely dwells, where justice is consistently practiced, and where people live in peace and contentment under God's divine favor.
* **holiness (Hebrew, _qôdesh'_):** From H6944, meaning "a sacred place or thing; rarely abstract, sanctity." This word denotes separation to God, consecration, and purity. "Mountain of holiness" specifically refers to Jerusalem, particularly Mount Zion, where the Temple stood. This phrase indicates that Jerusalem will not only be physically rebuilt but will be restored to its sacred status as a city set apart for God, characterized by His manifest presence and the pure worship of His people. It signifies a profound spiritual cleansing and re-dedication to divine purposes.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Thus saith the LORD of hosts, the God of Israel;"**: This opening prophetic formula establishes the absolute divine authority and unwavering certainty of the declaration that follows. "The LORD of hosts" (YHWH Sabaoth) emphasizes God's supreme power and sovereignty over all creation, including heavenly armies, while "the God of Israel" reaffirms His unique and unbreakable covenant relationship and steadfast faithfulness to His chosen people, despite their current state of judgment and exile.
* **"As yet they shall use this speech in the land of Judah and in the cities thereof, when I shall bring again their captivity;"**: This clause precisely sets the conditions and timing for the prophecy's fulfillment. "As yet" implies a future time, standing in stark contrast to the present desolation. The phrase "when I shall bring again their captivity" explicitly points to the divine initiative of returning the exiles from Babylon, marking the pivotal historical moment when this promised transformation will commence. The "speech" refers to the spontaneous blessing that follows, indicating a profound spiritual vitality and public acknowledgment of God's redemptive work throughout the land.
* **"The LORD bless thee, O habitation of justice, [and] mountain of holiness."**: This is the specific "speech" or blessing that the returned people will utter. It is a heartfelt benediction directed towards Judah and Jerusalem, personifying them as a "habitation of justice" and a "mountain of holiness." "Habitation of justice" signifies a land and society where righteousness, moral uprightness, and equitable dealings prevail. "Mountain of holiness" (referring to Jerusalem/Zion) denotes a city consecrated entirely to God, purified from idolatry and sin, and set apart for His sacred presence and pure worship. This dual description encapsulates the comprehensive spiritual, moral, and physical renewal of the land and its people.

#### Literary Devices
Jeremiah 31:23 masterfully employs several potent literary devices to convey its profound message of hope and divine transformation. **Personification** is strikingly evident as Judah and Jerusalem are directly addressed as a "habitation of justice" and a "mountain of holiness," imbuing the land and its capital with moral and spiritual attributes as if they were living entities capable of receiving a blessing. **Metaphor** is central to these descriptive phrases, where "habitation of justice" serves as a powerful metaphor for a society characterized by pervasive righteousness and equity, and "mountain of holiness" metaphorically represents Jerusalem as a purified, consecrated center of divine presence and worship. The stark contrast between Judah's current desolate, judged state and its prophesied future state of blessing, justice, and holiness creates a powerful sense of **Antithesis**, highlighting the magnitude of God's redemptive power and fostering profound **Hope**. The entire verse functions as a direct **Prophecy**, a divinely inspired declaration of future events and their profound spiritual significance, offering an unwavering assurance of God's ultimate restorative plan for His people.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
This prophecy in Jeremiah 31:23 stands as a powerful testament to God's unwavering commitment to His covenant people and His ultimate plan for their comprehensive restoration and sanctification. It profoundly underscores the biblical theme that God's judgment, while severe, is never His final word, but rather a corrective means to bring about repentance and lead His people into a deeper, more profound relationship with Him. The promised transformation of Judah into a "habitation of justice" and "mountain of holiness" speaks to God's desire not merely for a physical return, but for a radical spiritual renewal that impacts every facet of life, mirroring His own righteous and holy character. This vision of a purified people dwelling in a consecrated land powerfully foreshadows the ultimate redemption and the establishment of God's kingdom, where righteousness and holiness will fully and eternally dwell.

* [Isaiah 60:1-3](/isaiah/60-1-3 "Isaiah 60:1-3 - The Glory of Zion's Future")
* [Ezekiel 36:33-36](/ezekiel/36-33-36 "Ezekiel 36:33-36 - God's Promise of Israel's Restoration and Renewal")
* [Zechariah 8:3](/zechariah/8-3 "Zechariah 8:3 - Jerusalem, the Holy City of Truth")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Jeremiah 31:23 offers profound encouragement for believers navigating periods of desolation, whether personal, communal, or societal. Just as God promised to transform a devastated Judah into a beacon of righteousness and holiness, He promises to work profound transformation in our individual lives and in our communities. This verse serves as a powerful reminder that even when circumstances seem bleak, and we feel "exiled" from God's favor due to our failings or overwhelming external pressures, God's ultimate plan is for restoration, flourishing, and sanctification. Our hope is anchored not in our performance or present circumstances, but in God's steadfast faithfulness and His sovereign power to make all things new. The vision of a "habitation of justice" and "mountain of holiness" challenges us to live out our faith authentically, striving for righteousness and purity in our daily lives, and actively seeking to be agents of God's justice and holiness in the world around us. It calls us to trust implicitly that God is always at work, even behind the scenes, meticulously bringing about His good and perfect purposes.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what specific areas of your life or community do you most deeply long for God's transforming power to bring forth justice and holiness?**
* **How does the promise of God bringing "again their captivity" provide encouragement and hope in your own personal struggles or periods of spiritual dryness?**
* **What does it practically mean for your life, your home, and your sphere of influence to become a "habitation of justice" and a "mountain of holiness" in a tangible, everyday sense?**
* **Considering this prophecy, how can you, through your words, actions, and prayers, actively contribute to your community becoming more reflective of God's righteousness and holiness?**

### FAQ
**What is the "Book of Consolation" within Jeremiah?**

Answer: The "Book of Consolation" refers to Jeremiah chapters 30-33. This significant section stands in stark contrast to the preceding chapters, which are largely dominated by prophecies of severe judgment and impending exile for Judah. In these four chapters, Jeremiah's prophetic message shifts dramatically to delivering profound messages of hope, restoration, and a future return for both the northern kingdom of Israel and the southern kingdom of Judah. It notably includes the famous prophecy of the [New Covenant](/jeremiah/31-31-34 "Jeremiah 31:31-34 - The New Covenant"), promising a deeper, internalized relationship with God where His law is written on hearts. This section envisions a time when God will gather His scattered people and re-establish them securely in their land, characterized by peace, justice, and profound holiness.

**What does "bring again their captivity" mean in this context?**

Answer: The phrase "bring again their captivity" (often translated as "restore their fortunes" in modern versions) refers specifically to God's sovereign act of reversing the Babylonian exile. It signifies the divine initiative to gather the people of Judah and Israel who had been forcibly deported to Babylon and to miraculously bring them back to their homeland. This was a literal, historical event that occurred after the seventy years of exile prophesied by Jeremiah (cf. [Jeremiah 29:10](/jeremiah/29-10 "Jeremiah 29:10 - God's Promise of Return")). Beyond the physical return, it also profoundly implies a restoration of their national identity, their land, their spiritual relationship with God, and a transformation of their desolate state into one of abundant blessing and flourishing.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Jeremiah 31:23 finds its ultimate and most profound fulfillment not merely in the historical return from Babylonian exile, but in the person and work of Jesus Christ. The prophecy of Judah becoming a "habitation of justice" and a "mountain of holiness" points beyond a physical restoration and spiritual reform of ancient Israel to the new spiritual reality inaugurated by Christ. Jesus, as the incarnate Word, is the perfect embodiment of God's justice and holiness. Through His atoning work on the cross, He not only brings an end to the spiritual captivity of sin but also establishes a new people, the Church, which is the true "habitation of justice" and "mountain of holiness" in the spiritual realm. Believers, united with Christ, are made righteous by His perfect sacrifice and are called to live holy lives, becoming living stones in a spiritual house, built on Christ the cornerstone (cf. [1 Peter 2:5](/1_peter/2-5 "1 Peter 2:5 - Living Stones for a Spiritual House")). The "speech" of blessing, "The LORD bless thee," is realized in the overflowing spiritual blessings of the [New Covenant](/jeremiah/31-31-34 "Jeremiah 31:31-34 - The New Covenant") established in Christ's blood, where God's Spirit indwells His people, writing His law on their hearts and minds (cf. [Hebrews 8:10](/hebrews/8-10 "Hebrews 8:10 - The New Covenant Law Written on Hearts")). Ultimately, this glorious vision culminates in the new heavens and new earth, where the [New Jerusalem](/revelation/21-2 "Revelation 21:2 - The New Jerusalem Descending") descends from heaven, a truly holy city where God Himself dwells eternally with His redeemed people, and perfect righteousness reigns forevermore (cf. [Revelation 21:3-4](/revelation/21-3-4 "Revelation 21:3-4 - God Dwells with His People")).

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

Zechariah 8:3

Thus saith the LORD; I am returned unto Zion, and will dwell in the midst of Jerusalem: and Jerusalem shall be called a city of truth; and the mountain of the LORD of hosts the holy mountain.

Isaiah 1:26

And I will restore thy judges as at the first, and thy counsellors as at the beginning: afterward thou shalt be called, The city of righteousness, the faithful city.

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.

Jeremiah 30:18

¶ Thus saith the LORD; Behold, I will bring again the captivity of Jacob's tents, and have mercy on his dwellingplaces; and the city shall be builded upon her own heap, and the palace shall remain after the manner thereof.

Micah 4:1

¶ But in the last days it shall come to pass, [that] the mountain of the house of the LORD shall be established in the top of the mountains, and it shall be exalted above the hills; and people shall flow unto it.

Psalms 128:5

The LORD shall bless thee out of Zion: and thou shalt see the good of Jerusalem all the days of thy life.

Obadiah 1:17

¶ But upon mount Zion shall be deliverance, and there shall be holiness; and the house of Jacob shall possess their possessions.