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Jeremiah 31:9

They shall come with weeping, and with supplications will I lead them: I will cause them to walk by the rivers of waters in a straight way, wherein they shall not stumble: for I am a father to Israel, and Ephraim is my firstborn.

Jeremiah 31:9 · King James Version

Meaning

This verse from the book of Jeremiah speaks to the restoration and redemption of the people of Israel. The mention of weeping and supplications indicates the sorrow and repentance of the people as they turn back to God. The imagery of walking by the rivers of waters in a straight way symbolizes a new path of righteousness and guidance that God provides for them. This verse reinforces the idea that God is a nurturing and caring father to the people of Israel, treating them with love and compassion. The mention of Ephraim being God's firstborn signifies the special place this tribe holds in God's eyes, highlighting the importance of all the tribes of Israel in God's plan of salvation. Overall, this verse is a testament to God's mercy, guidance, and paternal love for his people, emphasizing the themes of repentance, restoration, and divine protection throughout the Bible.

Theological Overview

One theological interpretation of this verse is that it highlights God's love and care for His people. The imagery of leading them with weeping and supplications suggests a tender and compassionate approach. God promises to guide His people in a straight path by the rivers of water, symbolizing refreshment, guidance, and provision. The mention of being a father to Israel and Ephraim as His firstborn emphasizes God's role as a nurturing and protective parent to His chosen people. This verse emphasizes the intimate relationship between God and His children, portraying Him as a loving and attentive Father who guides them with care and compassion. The mention of leading His people in a straight way without stumbling conveys God's desire for His children to walk in obedience and trust in His guidance.

Jeremiah 31:9 in other translations

American Standard Version

They shall come with weeping; and with supplications will I lead them: I will cause them to walk by rivers of waters, in a straight way wherein they shall not stumble; for I am a father to Israel, and Ephraim is my first-born.

World English Bible

They shall come with weeping; and with petitions will I lead them: I will cause them to walk by rivers of waters, in a straight way in which they shall not stumble; for I am a father to Israel, and Ephraim is my firstborn.

Douay-Rheims

They shall come with weeping: and I will bring them back in mercy: and I will bring them through the torrents of waters in a right way, and they shall not stumble in it: for I am a father to Israel, and Ephraim is my firstborn.

Geneva Bible (1599)

They shall come weeping, and with mercie will I bring them againe: I will lead them by the riuers of water in a straight way, wherein they shall not stumble: for I am a father to Israel, and Ephraim is my first borne.