Jeremiah 2:20
For of old time I have broken thy yoke, and burst thy bands; and thou saidst, I will not transgress; when upon every high hill and under every green tree thou wanderest, playing the harlot.
Jeremiah 2:20 · King James Version
Meaning
This verse serves as a powerful reminder from the book of Jeremiah in the Old Testament. It speaks to the idea of God releasing his people from bondage and setting them free. However, despite being freed from their yoke and bands, the people still choose to wander and engage in sinful behavior. The imagery of playing the harlot under every high hill and green tree symbolizes the people turning away from God and seeking fulfillment in worldly pleasures. The verse highlights the faithlessness of the people, as they promise not to transgress but continue to stray from God's path. Ultimately, this verse serves as a cautionary tale about the consequences of turning away from God even after being rescued and set free. It is a poignant reminder of the importance of staying faithful and obedient to God's commands, even in the face of temptation and worldly distractions.
Theological Overview
Within this verse, there is a theological interpretation that delves into the nature of the relationship between God and His people. The imagery of breaking the yoke and bursting the bands symbolizes God freeing His people from the bondage of sin and idolatry. However, the people's response is troubling as they claim they will not transgress, yet they continue to engage in behaviors that go against God's commands. This highlights a recurrent theme in the Bible where humans struggle with obedience despite God's grace and deliverance. The term "playing the harlot" carries a deep theological meaning, suggesting that the people are unfaithful to God by turning to foreign gods and practices. This verse serves as a powerful reminder of the constant need for repentance and fidelity in our relationship with God, even when we are prone to wander and stray from His path.
Jeremiah 2:20 in other translations
American Standard Version
For of old time I have broken thy yoke, and burst thy bonds; and thou saidst, I will not serve; for upon every high hill and under every green tree thou didst bow thyself, playing the harlot.
World English Bible
“For of old time I have broken your yoke, and burst your bonds; and you said, ‘I will not serve;’ for on every high hill and under every green tree you bowed yourself, playing the prostitute.
Douay-Rheims
Of old time thou hast broken my yoke, thou hast burst my bands, and thou saidst: I will not serve. For on every high hill, and under every green tree thou didst prostitute thyself.
Geneva Bible (1599)
For of olde time I haue broken thy yoke, and burst thy bondes, and thou saidest, I will no more transgresse, but like an harlot thou runnest about vpon al hie hilles, and vnder all greene trees.