Jeremiah 31:35
Thus saith the LORD, which giveth the sun for a light by day, and the ordinances of the moon and of the stars for a light by night, which divideth the sea when the waves thereof roar; The LORD of hosts is his name:
Jeremiah 31:35 · King James Version
Meaning
This verse from the book of Jeremiah is a declaration from the Lord, emphasizing His power and authority over creation. By stating that He is the one who gives light to the sun by day, ordinances to the moon and stars by night, and who controls the roaring waves of the sea, the Lord is reminding His people of His sovereignty over all aspects of the natural world. The phrase "The LORD of hosts is his name" further solidifies His position as the supreme ruler of the universe, with hosts referring to the heavenly beings who serve Him. This verse serves as a powerful reminder of God's omnipotence and serves to inspire awe and reverence in those who read it. It is a call to acknowledge and submit to the authority of the Lord of hosts, who controls the forces of nature and governs the universe with wisdom and power.
Theological Overview
One theological interpretation of this verse focuses on the power and sovereignty of the LORD as the Creator and Sustainer of the universe. The passage highlights the LORD's control over the natural elements and celestial bodies, such as the sun, moon, and stars. By giving the sun for light by day and the moon and stars for light by night, the LORD demonstrates his provision for his creation and his faithfulness in ensuring the orderly function of the cosmos. The mention of God dividing the sea when its waves roar further emphasizes his supreme authority over the forces of nature. The phrase "The LORD of hosts is his name" reinforces the idea that the LORD is the commander of angelic armies and is deserving of reverence and worship. Overall, this verse serves as a reminder of the LORD's power, wisdom, and majesty as the sovereign ruler of the universe.
Jeremiah 31:35 in other translations
American Standard Version
Thus saith Jehovah, who giveth the sun for a light by day, and the ordinances of the moon and of the stars for a light by night, who stirreth up the sea, so that the waves thereof roar; Jehovah of hosts is his name:
World English Bible
Thus says Yahweh, who gives the sun for a light by day, and the ordinances of the moon and of the stars for a light by night, who stirs up the sea, so that its waves roar; Yahweh of Armies is his name:
Douay-Rheims
Thus saith the Lord, who giveth the sun for the light of the day, the order of the moon and of the stars, for the light of the night: who stirreth up the sea, and the waves thereof roar, the Lord of hosts is his name.
Geneva Bible (1599)
Thus saith the Lord, which giueth the sunne for a light to the day, and the courses of the moone and of the starres for a light to the night, which breaketh the sea, when the waues thereof roare: his Name is the Lord of hostes.