Jeremiah 17:4 Meaning and Explanation
“And thou, even thyself, shalt discontinue from thine heritage that I gave thee; and I will cause thee to serve thine enemies in the land which thou knowest not: for ye have kindled a fire in mine anger, which shall burn for ever.”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →Judah will lose the land God gave them and serve enemies in a foreign land because they have provoked God's lasting anger.
The Context of Jeremiah 17:4
Exile follows as the consequence of Judah's rebellion against God's covenant.
What Does Jeremiah 17:4 Mean?
The covenant inheritance—the land promised to Abraham and given to Judah—will be forfeited. The verb 'discontinue' captures both loss and separation: Judah will be cut off from the heritage that defined their identity and security as God's people. This is exile: to serve enemies in an unknown land where they have no home or footing.
The phrase 'fire in mine anger' speaks of God's judgment as a consuming force, kindled by Judah's persistent rebellion. Unlike temporary anger that passes, this fire 'shall burn for ever,' indicating a judgment whose consequences extend beyond immediate punishment into lasting separation from the promised land.
Jeremiah 17:4 in the Original Language
קִדַּלְתִּי (qiddal), 'kindled' — to ignite or set ablaze, expressing the active provocation of divine judgment.
Frequently Asked Questions About Jeremiah 17:4
What does Jeremiah 17:4 mean?
Judah will lose the land God gave them and serve enemies in a foreign land because they have provoked God's lasting anger.
What is the context of Jeremiah 17:4?
Exile follows as the consequence of Judah's rebellion against God's covenant.