Jeremiah 12:2 Meaning and Explanation
“Thou hast planted them, yea, they have taken root: they grow, yea, they bring forth fruit: thou art near in their mouth, and far from their reins.”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →Though God has planted the wicked and they thrive, their words honor Him while their hearts remain distant from Him.
The Context of Jeremiah 12:2
Jeremiah grieves that the wicked seem secure in God's care while remaining spiritually distant from Him.
What Does Jeremiah 12:2 Mean?
Jeremiah observes a paradox: God has established the wicked (using horticultural language of planting), and they have flourished and borne fruit. Yet this prosperity comes under God's sovereignty, not despite it. The image suggests these people grow deeply rooted and stable in their lives.
The people speak God's name and appear devout in their mouths, but their reins (inner being, affections, will) are far from Him. There is a radical split between outward profession and inward reality, making their prosperity all the more painful to witness.
Jeremiah 12:2 in the Original Language
reins (קרב), inner self or affections — the seat of intention and loyalty; in Jeremiah's view, their inner orientation is removed from God's presence.
Frequently Asked Questions About Jeremiah 12:2
What does Jeremiah 12:2 mean?
Though God has planted the wicked and they thrive, their words honor Him while their hearts remain distant from Him.
What is the context of Jeremiah 12:2?
Jeremiah grieves that the wicked seem secure in God's care while remaining spiritually distant from Him.