Jeremiah 29:8
For thus saith the LORD of hosts, the God of Israel; Let not your prophets and your diviners, that be in the midst of you, deceive you, neither hearken to your dreams which ye cause to be dreamed.
Jeremiah 29:8 · King James Version
Meaning
In this verse from the book of Jeremiah, the Lord is warning the people of Israel to be cautious of false prophets and deceitful diviners in their midst. The Lord specifically instructs the people not to be swayed by these individuals or to put their trust in the dreams that they claim to have. This cautionary message serves as a reminder to the Israelites to rely solely on the word of the Lord and not be led astray by those who may seek to deceive them. By staying true to their faith and listening to the true word of the Lord, the people of Israel can avoid falling victim to false teachings and misleading visions. This verse encourages believers to prioritize their relationship with God and to discern the truth from falsehood, ensuring that they remain steadfast in their faith and obedience to the one true God.
Theological Overview
The theological interpretation of this verse emphasizes the importance of discernment and reliance on the true Word of God. It warns against following false prophets and relying on dreams that are not from God. The verse underscores the idea that believers should not be deceived by individuals claiming to have special spiritual insights or supernatural knowledge. Instead, it urges the people of Israel to trust in the Lord of hosts, the God of Israel, as the ultimate source of truth and guidance. By heeding this admonition, believers are encouraged to seek discernment through prayer, study of scripture, and reliance on the Holy Spirit for true prophetic guidance.
Jeremiah 29:8 in other translations
American Standard Version
For thus saith Jehovah of hosts, the God of Israel: Let not your prophets that are in the midst of you, and your diviners, deceive you; neither hearken ye to your dreams which ye cause to be dreamed.
World English Bible
For thus says Yahweh of Armies, the God of Israel: Don’t let your prophets who are in your midst, and your diviners, deceive you; neither listen to your dreams which you cause to be dreamed.
Douay-Rheims
For thus saith the Lord of hosts the God of Israel: Let not your prophets that are in the midst of you, and your diviners deceive you: and give no heed to your dreams which you dream:
Geneva Bible (1599)
For thus saith the Lord of hostes the God of Israel, Let not your prophets, and your southsayers that bee among you, deceiue you, neither giue eare to your dreames, which you dreame.