Jeremiah 31:4

KJV

Again I will build thee, and thou shalt be built, O virgin of Israel: thou shalt again be adorned with thy tabrets, and shalt go forth in the dances of them that make merry.

KJV (with Strong's)

Again I will build {H1129} thee, and thou shalt be built {H1129}, O virgin {H1330} of Israel {H3478}: thou shalt again be adorned {H5710} with thy tabrets {H8596}, and shalt go forth {H3318} in the dances {H4234} of them that make merry {H7832}.

Complete Jewish Bible

Once again, I will build you; you will be rebuilt, virgin of Isra'el. Once again, equipped with your tambourines, you will go out and dance with the merrymakers.

Berean Standard Bible

Again I will build you, and you will be rebuilt, O Virgin Israel. Again you will take up your tambourines and go out in joyful dancing.

American Standard Version

Again will I build thee, and thou shalt be built, O virgin of Israel: again shalt thou be adorned with thy tabrets, and shalt go forth in the dances of them that make merry.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Jeremiah 31:4 delivers a powerful prophetic message of hope and divine restoration to a disheartened Israel, envisioning a future where the nation, personified as a pure "virgin," will be rebuilt and re-established by God. Far from their present state of exile and devastation, this verse promises a return to vibrant communal life, marked by joyous celebration, music, and dancing, signifying a complete reversal of their fortunes and a renewal of their covenant relationship with Yahweh.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Jeremiah 31:4 is situated within the "Book of Consolation" (Jeremiah chapters 30-33), a section of Jeremiah's prophecy that dramatically shifts from pronouncements of judgment to declarations of future hope and restoration for Israel and Judah. While the preceding chapters largely detail the consequences of Israel's covenant unfaithfulness and the impending Babylonian exile, this segment offers a profound counter-narrative of divine grace. Verse 4 specifically initiates a series of promises regarding the physical and spiritual rebuilding of the nation, setting the stage for the climactic revelation of the [New Covenant](/jeremiah/31-31 "Jeremiah 31:31 - The New Covenant") later in the chapter, which promises an internal, heart-level transformation. This verse, therefore, serves as an immediate and vivid picture of the joyful outcome of God's redemptive plan, contrasting sharply with the sorrow and desolation described earlier in the book (e.g., [Jeremiah 9:10-11](/jeremiah/9-10 "Jeremiah 9:10-11 - Desolation of Judah")).
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The prophecy of Jeremiah was delivered during a tumultuous period in Judah's history, leading up to and during the Babylonian exile (late 7th to early 6th centuries BCE). Jerusalem had been destroyed, the Temple desecrated, and a significant portion of the population deported to Babylon. This experience was profoundly traumatic, leading to despair and a sense of abandonment by God. In this context, the imagery of rebuilding and joyous celebration was revolutionary. "Virgin of Israel" is a tender, affectionate, and often idealized poetic epithet for the nation, suggesting a return to a state of purity, innocence, and renewed covenant fidelity, free from the defilement of idolatry that led to their downfall. The use of "tabrets" (tambourines) and "dances" points to deeply ingrained cultural practices of celebration in ancient Israel, often associated with religious festivals, victories, and expressions of profound joy (e.g., [Exodus 15:20](/exodus/15-20 "Exodus 15:20 - Miriam's Song of Triumph") after the Red Sea crossing, or [Judges 11:34](/judges/11-34 "Judges 11:34 - Jephthah's Daughter with Timbrels and Dances")). The promise here is that such expressions of unbridled joy, which had been silenced by national catastrophe, would return.
* **Key Themes:** Jeremiah 31:4 contributes significantly to several overarching themes within the book of Jeremiah and the broader prophetic corpus. Firstly, it underscores the theme of **Divine Restoration**, emphasizing God's sovereign initiative and power to reverse even the most catastrophic national devastation. The repeated "I will build" highlights God's active role as the architect of their future. Secondly, the address "O virgin of Israel" introduces the theme of **Renewed Purity and Covenant Fidelity**. It signifies a spiritual cleansing and a fresh start, where Israel is restored to a favored status, shedding the shame of past unfaithfulness. Thirdly, the vivid imagery of "tabrets" and "dances" powerfully conveys the theme of **Joy and Celebration** as the ultimate outcome of God's redemptive work. This joy is not merely superficial but a deep, communal gladness that replaces mourning and sorrow, echoing the transformation described in [Psalm 30:11](/psalms/30-11 "Psalm 30:11 - Turning Mourning into Dancing"). Finally, underlying these promises is the unwavering theme of **God's Covenant Faithfulness**. Despite Israel's repeated failures, God remains true to His promises, demonstrating His steadfast love and commitment to His chosen people, ensuring their ultimate restoration and blessing.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **build (Hebrew, _bânâh'_):** (H1129) This primitive root means "to build" in both a literal and figurative sense. In Jeremiah 31:4, its repetition ("I will build thee, and thou shalt be built") emphasizes God's comprehensive and active role in the restoration of Israel. It signifies not just physical reconstruction of cities and homes, but also the re-establishment of the nation's social, political, and spiritual fabric. It implies a divine act of creation and establishment, bringing order and flourishing out of chaos and ruin.
* **virgin (Hebrew, _bᵉthûwlâh'_):** (H1330) This feminine passive participle refers to a "virgin," implying purity, intactness, and often, privacy. Figuratively, it can refer to a city or state. When applied to "Israel," it is a tender, affectionate, and idealized term. It suggests a renewed state of innocence and purity, free from the spiritual defilement of idolatry and sin that led to their exile. It also carries connotations of a bride, implying a renewed, intimate, and exclusive covenant relationship with God, akin to a marriage.
* **tabrets (Hebrew, _tôph'_):** (H8596) Derived from a root meaning "to tap" or "to beat," this word refers to a "tambourine" or "hand-drum." The _toph_ was a common percussive instrument used in ancient Israelite culture for celebrations, festive processions, and expressions of great joy, triumph, and worship. Its inclusion here is highly symbolic, signifying the complete reversal of fortune from mourning and lamentation (where such instruments would be silent) to unbridled public rejoicing and communal festivity.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Again I will build thee, and thou shalt be built":** This opening phrase powerfully declares God's sovereign initiative and determination to restore Israel. The active voice "I will build" highlights God as the primary agent of reconstruction, while the passive "thou shalt be built" emphasizes that Israel will be the recipient and beneficiary of this divine work. The repetition underscores the certainty and comprehensiveness of this rebuilding, extending beyond mere physical structures to the very fabric of national identity and well-being.
* **"O virgin of Israel":** This tender and deeply significant appellation addresses the nation of Israel directly. Calling Israel a "virgin" signifies a return to a state of purity, innocence, and renewed covenant fidelity, free from the spiritual adultery of idolatry that had defiled them. It implies a fresh start, a restoration to a favored and undefiled relationship with God, akin to a bride preparing for her groom.
* **"thou shalt again be adorned with thy tabrets":** This clause paints a vivid picture of renewed joy and celebration. "Adorned" (from _ʻâdâh_) suggests being decked out or beautified, implying a return to dignity and splendor. The "tabrets" (tambourines) are instruments of festivity, symbolizing the end of mourning and the beginning of public, uninhibited rejoicing. This imagery contrasts sharply with the sorrow and silence of exile, promising a time when music and merriment will once again fill the land.
* **"and shalt go forth in the dances of them that make merry":** This final phrase completes the picture of exuberant celebration. "Go forth" (from _yâtsâʼ_) implies public movement and participation. "Dances" (from _mâchôwl_) refer to communal, often circular, dances performed in times of great joy and triumph. "Them that make merry" (from _sâchaq_) indicates a people filled with laughter, play, and delight. Together, these images promise a complete restoration of communal life, characterized by unbridled joy, spontaneous celebration, and a deep sense of well-being and contentment.

#### Literary Devices
Jeremiah 31:4 is rich in **Imagery**, painting a vivid picture of restoration. The act of "building" evokes concrete images of reconstruction and stability, while "adorned with tabrets" and "dances of them that make merry" conjure scenes of vibrant, joyful celebration. The verse also employs **Personification**, addressing the nation of Israel as a "virgin," thereby endowing the collective entity with human qualities of purity, beauty, and emotional expression. The use of **Repetition** in "I will build thee, and thou shalt be built" serves to emphasize the certainty and divine initiative of the promised restoration. Furthermore, the entire verse functions as a powerful **Metaphor** for spiritual and national renewal, where physical rebuilding and outward celebration symbolize a deeper, internal transformation and reconciliation with God after a period of brokenness and judgment.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Jeremiah 31:4 is a cornerstone of biblical prophecy regarding divine restoration, illustrating God's unwavering commitment to His covenant people despite their failures. It underscores the truth that God is not only a God of judgment but also of profound grace and renewal, capable of bringing life and joy out of death and despair. This promise of rebuilding and celebration points forward to the ultimate spiritual restoration found in the New Covenant, where God writes His law on the hearts of His people, enabling genuine purity and sustained fellowship. It prefigures the eschatological hope of a new heaven and new earth, where all sorrow and suffering will be replaced by eternal joy in God's presence.

* [Isaiah 61:3](/isaiah/61-3 "Isaiah 61:3 - Garment of Praise for Spirit of Heaviness")
* [Psalm 30:11](/psalms/30-11 "Psalm 30:11 - Turning Mourning into Dancing")
* [Ezekiel 36:26-27](/ezekiel/36-26-27 "Ezekiel 36:26-27 - A New Heart and Spirit")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Jeremiah 31:4 offers profound encouragement for believers facing periods of personal or communal brokenness. It reminds us that God is the ultimate restorer, capable of rebuilding what seems irrevocably shattered—whether it's a broken spirit, a fractured relationship, or a sense of lost purpose. This verse invites us to cling to hope even in the deepest valleys of "exile," trusting that God's plan for us culminates in joy, celebration, and renewed intimacy with Him. It challenges us to anticipate and actively participate in the "dances of them that make merry," recognizing that true, lasting joy is found in God's redemptive work. Our present difficulties are not the final word; God's faithfulness ensures a future where mourning is turned into dancing, and desolation into delight.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **What areas of your life or community feel "broken" or "in exile" today, and how does the promise of God as a "builder" bring you hope?**
* **In what ways can you actively anticipate and embrace the "joy and celebration" that God promises, even amidst current challenges?**
* **How does the imagery of Israel as a "virgin" challenge or encourage your understanding of purity and renewed relationship with God?**

### FAQ

**Why is Israel referred to as "virgin" in this prophecy?**

Answer: The term "virgin of Israel" (Hebrew: _bᵉthûwlâh_) is a tender and poetic epithet used to describe the nation. It signifies a return to a state of purity, innocence, and renewed covenant fidelity after a period of spiritual defilement through idolatry and unfaithfulness. Just as a virgin is undefiled, this imagery suggests that God will cleanse Israel and restore them to a pristine, exclusive relationship with Him, akin to a bride preparing for her groom. It emphasizes a fresh start, free from the shame and consequences of past sins, and a renewed commitment to their covenant with Yahweh, as promised in [Jeremiah 31:33](/jeremiah/31-33 "Jeremiah 31:33 - God's Law on the Heart").

**What do "tabrets" and "dances" symbolize in this context?**

Answer: "Tabrets" (Hebrew: _tôph_) are tambourines or hand-drums, instruments commonly used in ancient Israel for celebrations, festivals, and expressions of great joy and triumph (e.g., [1 Samuel 18:6](/1_samuel/18-6 "1 Samuel 18:6 - Women with Timbrels and Dances")). "Dances" (Hebrew: _mâchôwl_) refer to communal, often circular, dances performed during times of festivity and rejoicing. Together, these symbols represent the complete reversal of Israel's fortunes. They signify the end of mourning, sorrow, and lamentation associated with exile and destruction, and the beginning of uninhibited public celebration, communal well-being, and spiritual delight in God's presence. It's a picture of life returning to its vibrant, joyful rhythm.

**Is this prophecy only for ancient Israel, or does it have relevance for believers today?**

Answer: While the immediate historical context of Jeremiah 31:4 is the restoration of ancient Israel from Babylonian exile, its theological principles and spiritual promises extend far beyond that specific event. The core message of divine restoration, renewed purity, and ultimate joy is universally applicable. For believers today, this verse serves as a powerful reminder of God's unchanging character as a God who rebuilds, renews, and brings joy out of brokenness. It points to the spiritual restoration offered through Christ, the new covenant established in His blood, and the ultimate hope of a future where all sorrow will cease and eternal joy will reign, as described in [Revelation 21:4](/revelation/21-4 "Revelation 21:4 - No More Tears or Pain"). It assures us that God's faithfulness extends to all who trust in Him, promising personal and communal renewal.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Jeremiah 31:4, with its vibrant promise of rebuilding, renewed purity, and joyous celebration for the "virgin of Israel," finds its ultimate and most profound fulfillment in Jesus Christ. While initially pointing to the physical return from Babylonian exile, the deeper spiritual restoration it anticipates is fully realized in the [New Covenant](/jeremiah/31-31 "Jeremiah 31:31 - The New Covenant") inaugurated by Christ. Jesus is the divine Builder who constructs His Church, the spiritual Israel, out of those who believe in Him, transforming broken lives and bringing them into a living relationship with God (cf. [Matthew 16:18](/matthew/16-18 "Matthew 16:18 - Christ Builds His Church")). Through His atoning sacrifice, He purifies His people, making them a "virgin bride" presented to God without blemish (cf. [Ephesians 5:27](/ephesians/5-27 "Ephesians 5:27 - Christ's Bride Without Blemish") and [2 Corinthians 11:2](/2_corinthians/11-2 "2 Corinthians 11:2 - A Pure Virgin to Christ")). The "tabrets" and "dances" of merriment foreshadow the unbridled joy and spiritual celebration that characterize the redeemed life in Christ, a joy that is a fruit of the Spirit (cf. [Galatians 5:22](/galatians/5-22 "Galatians 5:22 - Fruit of the Spirit")) and a foretaste of the eternal rejoicing in God's presence, where all tears will be wiped away and sorrow will be no more (cf. [Revelation 21:4](/revelation/21-4 "Revelation 21:4 - No More Tears")). Thus, Jeremiah's vision of restoration culminates in the person and work of Christ, who brings about the ultimate rebuilding of humanity and the establishment of an everlasting kingdom of joy.

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 33:7

And I will cause the captivity of Judah and the captivity of Israel to return, and will build them, as at the first.

Jeremiah 31:13

Then shall the virgin rejoice in the dance, both young men and old together: for I will turn their mourning into joy, and will comfort them, and make them rejoice from their sorrow.

Amos 5:2

The virgin of Israel is fallen; she shall no more rise: she is forsaken upon her land; [there is] none to raise her up.

Acts 15:16

After this I will return, and will build again the tabernacle of David, which is fallen down; and I will build again the ruins thereof, and I will set it up:

Revelation 21:10

And he carried me away in the spirit to a great and high mountain, and shewed me that great city, the holy Jerusalem, descending out of heaven from God,

Revelation 21:27

And there shall in no wise enter into it any thing that defileth, neither [whatsoever] worketh abomination, or [maketh] a lie: but they which are written in the Lamb's book of life.

Psalms 149:3

Let them praise his name in the dance: let them sing praises unto him with the timbrel and harp.