Jeremiah 31:10
Hear the word of the LORD, O ye nations, and declare it in the isles afar off, and say, He that scattered Israel will gather him, and keep him, as a shepherd doth his flock.
Jeremiah 31:10 · King James Version
Meaning
This verse from Jeremiah 31:10 is a powerful declaration to the nations to listen to the word of the LORD and proclaim it to far-off lands. It speaks of the promise of God to gather and protect his people Israel, just as a shepherd cares for his flock. This passage is a reminder of God's faithfulness and his commitment to his chosen people, even in times of scattering and exile. It serves as a message of hope and assurance that no matter how far we may wander, God will always be there to gather us back into his loving care. The imagery of a shepherd tending to his flock conveys a sense of intimacy, protection, and provision that God offers to his people. As believers, we can take comfort in knowing that God is our faithful shepherd who will not abandon us, but will gather and keep us close to him.
Theological Overview
This verse from the book of Jeremiah speaks to the promise of restoration and redemption for the nation of Israel. The theological interpretation of this passage emphasizes God's faithfulness to His chosen people. Despite their scattering and exile, God promises to gather them back together and protect them like a shepherd caring for his flock. This imagery of God as a shepherd highlights His loving and protective nature towards His people. The word study of the phrase "scatter" and "gather" here reveals the idea of God's sovereign power over the destiny of His people. In the context of this verse, it signifies God's ability to bring together what has been broken apart, to restore what has been lost. The call for nations to hear and declare this message emphasizes the universality of God's redemptive plan, extending beyond the borders of Israel to the ends of the earth. Overall, this verse conveys a message of hope, assurance, and the unchanging nature of God's divine promises.
Jeremiah 31:10 in other translations
American Standard Version
Hear the word of Jehovah, O ye nations, and declare it in the isles afar off; and say, He that scattered Israel will gather him, and keep him, as a shepherd doth his flock.
World English Bible
Hear Yahweh’s word, you nations, and declare it in the islands afar off; and say, He who scattered Israel will gather him, and keep him, as a shepherd does his flock.
Douay-Rheims
Hear the word of the Lord, O ye nations, and declare it in the islands that are afar off, and say: He that scattered Israel will gather him: and he will keep him as the shepherd doth his flock.
Geneva Bible (1599)
Heare the worde of the Lord, O ye Gentiles, and declare in the yles afarre off, and say, Hee that scattered Israel, wil gather him and wil keepe him, as a shepheard doeth his flocke.