Jeremiah 35:7

Nor are you ever to build a house or sow seed or plant a vineyard. Those things are not for you. Instead, you must live in tents all your lives, so that you may live a long time in the land where you wander.'

Study Bible

Nor are you ever to build a house
This command reflects the lifestyle of the Rechabites, a nomadic tribe descended from Jonadab son of Rechab. Their way of life was a deliberate choice to avoid the settled lifestyle of the Canaanites, which often led to idolatry and moral decay. The Rechabites' commitment to not building houses symbolizes a rejection of the materialism and permanence associated with urban life, emphasizing a reliance on God rather than on human structures.

or sow seed
The prohibition against sowing seed indicates a rejection of agricultural practices that would tie them to a specific land. This lifestyle choice aligns with the nomadic traditions of the patriarchs like Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, who also lived as sojourners in the land. It reflects a trust in God's provision rather than in human efforts to cultivate and control the land.

or plant a vineyard
Vineyards in ancient Israel were symbols of wealth and stability, often associated with the blessings of the Promised Land. By abstaining from planting vineyards, the Rechabites distanced themselves from the potential for excess and the temptations that come with prosperity. This choice echoes the Nazarite vow, which also included abstaining from wine, symbolizing a life set apart for God.

Those things are not for you
This phrase underscores the distinct identity and calling of the Rechabites. Their lifestyle was a counter-cultural witness to the Israelites, who were often tempted by the practices of surrounding nations. It serves as a reminder of the call to holiness and separation from worldly influences, a theme prevalent throughout Scripture.

Instead, you must live in tents all your lives
Living in tents signifies a transient lifestyle, reminiscent of Israel's wilderness wanderings. It highlights a dependence on God for guidance and provision, as well as a readiness to move at His command. This way of life is a physical manifestation of spiritual truths, emphasizing the temporary nature of earthly life and the eternal perspective believers are called to maintain.

so that you may live a long time in the land where you wander.
This promise of longevity in the land is conditional upon obedience to the commands given. It reflects the covenantal blessings associated with faithfulness to God's instructions. The Rechabites' adherence to their ancestor's commands serves as a model of obedience and faith, contrasting with the disobedience of Judah, which ultimately led to exile. This phrase also echoes the blessings promised in the Mosaic Covenant for those who follow God's laws.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Rechabites
A nomadic group descended from Rechab, known for their obedience to their ancestor Jonadab's command to live a simple, nomadic lifestyle without permanent dwellings or agriculture.

2. Jonadab son of Rechab
An ancestor of the Rechabites who commanded his descendants to abstain from wine and live a nomadic lifestyle, emphasizing obedience and separation from the practices of surrounding nations.

3. Jeremiah
The prophet who uses the Rechabites' obedience as an object lesson for the people of Judah, highlighting their faithfulness in contrast to Judah's disobedience to God.

4. Judah
The southern kingdom of Israel, which was often disobedient to God's commands, leading to prophetic warnings and eventual exile.

5. Jerusalem
The city where Jeremiah brought the Rechabites to test their obedience, serving as a backdrop for the lesson on faithfulness.

Teaching Points

Obedience to Godly Heritage
The Rechabites' adherence to Jonadab's command demonstrates the importance of honoring and maintaining a godly heritage. Christians are encouraged to uphold biblical teachings passed down through generations.

Living as Sojourners
The Rechabites' lifestyle reminds believers of their temporary status on earth. Christians are called to live with an eternal perspective, prioritizing spiritual over material pursuits.

Faithfulness in a Faithless World
The Rechabites' faithfulness contrasts with Judah's disobedience. Believers are challenged to remain faithful to God's commands, even when surrounded by a culture that does not.

Simplicity and Contentment
The Rechabites' simple lifestyle encourages Christians to find contentment in God's provision and avoid the distractions of materialism.

The Power of Example
Jeremiah uses the Rechabites as an example to teach Judah. Believers are reminded of the impact their lives can have as a testimony to others.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the lifestyle of the Rechabites challenge our modern understanding of success and security?

2. In what ways can we honor the godly heritage and teachings passed down to us, similar to the Rechabites' obedience to Jonadab?

3. How can we apply the principle of living as "sojourners" in our daily lives, as seen in the Rechabites' example?

4. What are some practical steps we can take to cultivate contentment and simplicity in a materialistic society?

5. How can our faithfulness to God's commands serve as a testimony to those around us, similar to the Rechabites' example to Judah?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Numbers 6
The Nazirite vow, which also involves abstaining from wine, parallels the Rechabites' commitment to a lifestyle of separation and dedication.

Hebrews 11
The faith chapter, which includes examples of those who lived as "strangers and exiles on the earth," similar to the Rechabites' nomadic lifestyle.

1 Peter 2:11
Christians are called to live as "aliens and strangers" in the world, echoing the Rechabites' separation from worldly practices.