Jeremiah 3:19
But I said, How shall I put thee among the children, and give thee a pleasant land, a goodly heritage of the hosts of nations? and I said, Thou shalt call me, My father; and shalt not turn away from me.
Jeremiah 3:19 · King James Version
Meaning
In this verse, the speaker expresses their desire to establish a close relationship with the recipient, symbolized by the imagery of a parent-child bond. The speaker contemplates how to place the recipient among the children and grant them a pleasant land and a heritage among the nations. By referring to themselves as "My father," the speaker seeks intimacy and closeness, indicating a desire for a familial connection. The recipient is encouraged not to turn away from the speaker, emphasizing the importance of maintaining this relationship. This verse conveys a message of love, guidance, and the hope for a strong bond between the speaker and the recipient, illustrating the nurturing and protective qualities associated with a parent-child relationship.
Theological Overview
In this verse from the book of Jeremiah, the prophet is speaking on behalf of God, expressing God's deep desire for a close and loving relationship with His people. The word 'father' used in this context signifies a relationship of intimacy, care, and authority. It conveys the idea of God desiring to be recognized as the ultimate provider and protector, much like a father would be to his children. The mention of a 'pleasant land' and a 'goodly heritage' highlights God's intention to bless His people abundantly and provide for their needs. This verse emphasizes the importance of not turning away from God, but rather embracing Him as a loving Father. The theological interpretation of this verse underscores God's desire for a personal and close relationship with His children, where they can find security, provision, and love in Him.
Jeremiah 3:19 in other translations
American Standard Version
But I said, How I will put thee among the children, and give thee a pleasant land, a goodly heritage of the hosts of the nations! and I said, Ye shall call me My Father, and shall not turn away from following me.
World English Bible
“But I said, ‘How I would put you among the children, and give you a pleasant land, a goodly heritage of the armies of the nations!’ and I said, ‘You shall call me “My Father”, and shall not turn away from following me.’
Douay-Rheims
But I said: How shall I put thee among the children, and give thee a lovely land, the goodly inheritance of the armies of the Gentiles? And I said: Thou shalt call me father and shalt not cease to walk after me.
Geneva Bible (1599)
But I sayde, Howe did I take thee for children and giue thee a pleasant lande, euen the glorious heritage of the armies of the heathen, and saide, Thou shalt call mee, saying, My father, and shalt not turne from me?