Topical Bible: Jeremiah: The Prophet: Purchases a Field

◄ Jeremiah: The Prophet: Purchases a Field ►

Topical Encyclopedia

Jeremiah, one of the major prophets of the Old Testament, is renowned for his prophecies concerning the impending judgment upon Judah and Jerusalem due to their persistent idolatry and disobedience to God. Among the many symbolic acts performed by Jeremiah, the purchase of a field in Anathoth stands out as a profound demonstration of faith and hope in God's promises.

Context and Background

The event of Jeremiah purchasing a field is recorded in Jeremiah 32. This chapter is set during a tumultuous period in Judah's history, specifically during the siege of Jerusalem by the Babylonian army under King Nebuchadnezzar. The city was on the brink of destruction, and Jeremiah himself was confined in the courtyard of the guard in the royal palace of Judah (Jeremiah 32:2).

The Command to Purchase the Field

In the midst of this dire situation, the word of the LORD came to Jeremiah, instructing him to buy a field from his cousin Hanamel. The field was located in Anathoth, Jeremiah's hometown, in the territory of Benjamin. This command was unusual, given the circumstances, as the land was about to fall into enemy hands. Nevertheless, Jeremiah obeyed the divine instruction.

Jeremiah 32:6-7 states: "Jeremiah replied, 'The word of the LORD came to me, saying: Behold, Hanamel son of Shallum your uncle will come to you and say, ‘Buy for yourself my field in Anathoth, for you have the right of redemption to buy it.’"

The Act of Purchase

Jeremiah's obedience to God's command is detailed in Jeremiah 32:9-12 : "So I bought the field in Anathoth from my cousin Hanamel, and I weighed out for him seventeen shekels of silver. I signed and sealed the deed, called in witnesses, and weighed out the silver on the scales. Then I took the deed of purchase—the sealed copy with its terms and conditions, as well as the open copy—and I gave this deed to Baruch son of Neriah, the son of Mahseiah, in the sight of my cousin Hanamel and of the witnesses who had signed the deed and of all the Jews sitting in the courtyard of the guard."

This transaction was conducted with meticulous care, following the legal customs of the time, and was witnessed by many, ensuring its legitimacy.

Symbolism and Significance

The purchase of the field by Jeremiah was a prophetic act symbolizing hope and restoration. Despite the imminent destruction and exile, God promised that fields and vineyards would once again be bought and sold in the land. This act was a tangible sign of God's covenant faithfulness and His assurance that the people of Israel would return to their land.

Jeremiah 32:15 declares: "For this is what the LORD of Hosts, the God of Israel, says: Houses, fields, and vineyards will again be bought in this land."

Theological Implications

Jeremiah's purchase of the field serves as a powerful testament to the themes of faith, obedience, and hope in the promises of God. It underscores the belief that God's plans for His people extend beyond immediate circumstances, pointing to a future restoration and blessing. This act of faith by Jeremiah encourages believers to trust in God's sovereignty and His ultimate plan for redemption, even in the face of adversity and uncertainty.

Nave's Topical Index

Jeremiah 32:7-10
Behold, Hanameel the son of Shallum your uncle shall come to you saying, Buy you my field that is in Anathoth: for the right of redemption is your to buy it.
Nave's Topical Index