Jeremiah 21:12 Meaning and Explanation
“O house of David, thus saith the LORD; Execute judgment in the morning, and deliver him that is spoiled out of the hand of the oppressor, lest my fury go out like fire, and burn that none can quench it, because of the evil of your doings.”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →God urges David's house to execute justice and rescue the oppressed, or face unquenchable wrath.
The Context of Jeremiah 21:12
God holds the monarchy accountable for justice before judgment arrives.
What Does Jeremiah 21:12 Mean?
This call echoes the foundational covenant requirement: the throne must rule with justice and protect the vulnerable. 'In the morning' suggests immediate, urgent action—there is still time to turn aside judgment.
The warning is stark: if the royal house fails to act justly, God's anger will ignite like unquenchable fire. The judgment already announced for the city is traced, in part, to the evil deeds and injustice of those who rule.
Jeremiah 21:12 in the Original Language
שׁוֹפְטִים (shoftim), 'judges' — the king is called to act as God's steward of justice, executing righteous judgment for the oppressed.
Frequently Asked Questions About Jeremiah 21:12
What does Jeremiah 21:12 mean?
God urges David's house to execute justice and rescue the oppressed, or face unquenchable wrath.
What is the context of Jeremiah 21:12?
God holds the monarchy accountable for justice before judgment arrives.