What is the meaning of Jeremiah 17:3? O My mountain in the countryside • God tenderly yet firmly addresses Judah—especially Jerusalem on Mount Zion—as “My mountain,” asserting ownership and covenant relationship (Psalm 48:1-2; Isaiah 57:13). • “In the countryside” stretches the scene beyond city walls, reminding the people that the whole land lies under His authority (Deuteronomy 11:29). I will give over your wealth and all your treasures as plunder • The Lord Himself will hand Judah’s riches to invaders; nothing will be spared—temple gold, royal coffers, even personal stores (Jeremiah 20:5; 2 Kings 24:13). • Because all provision ultimately belongs to Him (Proverbs 3:9-10), He can withdraw it when covenant faithfulness collapses. because of the sin of your high places • Idolatrous worship on the hills violated the first commandment (Exodus 20:3-5; 1 Kings 14:23). • God links judgment directly to this specific sin, underscoring His holiness (Ezekiel 6:3-6; Numbers 23:19). within all your borders • The corruption was nationwide; every corner of Judah embraced idolatry (Jeremiah 6:13; Amos 3:2). • Therefore, the coming judgment would be just as comprehensive, sweeping across every boundary originally set for blessing (Numbers 34). summary Jeremiah 17:3 warns that the covenant God will strip His own mountain-people of wealth and security because they filled the land with idolatry. Possessions and protection flow from obedience; when hearts ascend other “high places,” the Lord Himself hands treasures to plunderers, proving that what He grants He can justly reclaim. |
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