Jeremiah 32:14
Thus saith the LORD of hosts, the God of Israel; Take these evidences, this evidence of the purchase, both which is sealed, and this evidence which is open; and put them in an earthen vessel, that they may continue many days.
Jeremiah 32:14 · King James Version
Meaning
In this verse from the book of Jeremiah, the Lord of hosts instructs the people of Israel to gather evidence of a purchase and store it in an earthen vessel for safekeeping. This symbolic act serves as a reminder of the covenant between God and His people, emphasizing the importance of faithfulness, truth, and accountability. By sealing the evidence in a vessel, it is kept secure and preserved for generations to come, ensuring that the terms of the agreement are upheld and honored. The physical act of placing the evidence in an earthen vessel signifies the humility and fragility of humanity, as well as the divine power and strength of God. This verse serves as a powerful lesson on the significance of trust, obedience, and commitment in maintaining a close relationship with the Lord. As readers reflect on these words, they are encouraged to remain faithful and steadfast in their own walk with God, knowing that His promises endure for all eternity.
Theological Overview
In this verse from the book of Jeremiah, the prophet is instructed by the LORD to take the evidences of a purchase and place them in an earthen vessel for safekeeping. The term "evidences" here can also be translated as "deeds" or "contracts", indicating a legal transaction that needed to be preserved. The act of sealing these documents in an earthen vessel has theological implications. The earthen vessel represents fragility and impermanence, highlighting the limitations of human power and the need for divine protection. By placing the evidences in the vessel, the LORD ensures that they will be kept safe for many days, emphasizing the importance of preserving these documents for future generations. This verse can also be interpreted metaphorically, suggesting that God's promises and covenants are securely kept and protected by His divine power, even in the midst of human frailty and uncertainty.
Jeremiah 32:14 in other translations
American Standard Version
Thus saith Jehovah of hosts, the God of Israel: Take these deeds, this deed of the purchase which is sealed, and this deed which is open, and put them in an earthen vessel; that they may continue many days.
World English Bible
Thus says Yahweh of Armies, the God of Israel: Take these deeds, this deed of the purchase which is sealed, and this deed which is open, and put them in an earthen vessel; that they may continue many days.
Douay-Rheims
Thus saith the Lord of hosts the God of Israel: Take these writings, this deed of the purchase that is sealed up, and this deed that is open: and put them in an earthen vessel, that they may continue many days.
Geneva Bible (1599)
Thus saith the Lord of hostes, the God of Israel, Take the writings, euen this booke of the possession, both that is sealed, and this booke that is open, and put them in an earthen vessell, that they may continue a long time.