Jeremiah 10:16 Meaning and Explanation
“The portion of Jacob is not like them: for he is the former of all things; and Israel is the rod of his inheritance: The LORD of hosts is his name.”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →God, Jacob's portion, is not like idols; He formed all things and claims Israel as His own.
The Context of Jeremiah 10:16
Jacob's God is the Creator; Israel is His treasured possession.
What Does Jeremiah 10:16 Mean?
Jacob (and by extension, Israel) has a different portion—a different God. Their God is the former of all things, the one who shapes and creates. He stands in absolute contrast to the powerless idols just condemned. To have such a God as one's portion is to have an inheritance beyond measure.
Israel is described as the rod of His inheritance—the staff or tool of His inheritance. This suggests Israel belongs to God, is precious to Him, and serves His purposes. The Lord of hosts—commander of all armies and powers—is His name, revealing that He rules over all creation and all nations.
Jeremiah 10:16 in the Original Language
portion (חֵלֶק, chelek) — share, allotment, inheritance; what one receives or possesses
Frequently Asked Questions About Jeremiah 10:16
What does Jeremiah 10:16 mean?
God, Jacob's portion, is not like idols; He formed all things and claims Israel as His own.
What is the context of Jeremiah 10:16?
Jacob's God is the Creator; Israel is His treasured possession.