Jeremiah 18:20 Meaning and Explanation
“Shall evil be recompensed for good? for they have digged a pit for my soul. Remember that I stood before thee to speak good for them, and to turn away thy wrath from them.”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →Jeremiah reminds God that he suffered for interceding on the people's behalf, yet they repay him with evil plots.
The Context of Jeremiah 18:20
Jeremiah appeals to God over his unfair persecution.
What Does Jeremiah 18:20 Mean?
Jeremiah appeals to God's sense of justice: 'Shall evil be recompensed for good?' He has done good—standing before God to speak on their behalf and intercede to turn away God's wrath. Yet they respond by digging 'a pit for my soul,' plotting his destruction. The irony is stark: the prophet who labored for their salvation is targeted for death.
'They have digged a pit for my soul'—this is not mere slander but an active plot to destroy him. Jeremiah reminds God that his suffering is not deserved but is inflicted upon him for his faithful service. His prayer calls God to witness the profound injustice: the messenger is persecuted for delivering the message, and his intercession is repaid with enmity.
Frequently Asked Questions About Jeremiah 18:20
What does Jeremiah 18:20 mean?
Jeremiah reminds God that he suffered for interceding on the people's behalf, yet they repay him with evil plots.
What is the context of Jeremiah 18:20?
Jeremiah appeals to God over his unfair persecution.