Jeremiah 22:16 Meaning and Explanation
“He judged the cause of the poor and needy; then it was well with him: was not this to know me? saith the LORD.”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →Josiah's blessing came from his active justice for the poor; knowing God is expressed through such acts.
The Context of Jeremiah 22:16
Knowing God is expressed through the practice of justice for the poor.
What Does Jeremiah 22:16 Mean?
The verse expands on Josiah's excellence: he did not merely have righteous intentions but actively 'judged the cause'—meaning he heard cases, rendered decisions, and ensured justice for those without resources. This active defense of the poor and needy is presented as the essence of 'knowing God.'
'To know God' is not intellectual assent or religious ritual, but relational engagement demonstrated through concrete acts of justice. The Lord links intimate knowledge of him to the practice of protecting the vulnerable.
Jeremiah 22:16 in the Original Language
yada (יָדַע), 'to know me'—intimate relationship with God; not mere intellectual knowledge.
Frequently Asked Questions About Jeremiah 22:16
What does Jeremiah 22:16 mean?
Josiah's blessing came from his active justice for the poor; knowing God is expressed through such acts.
What is the context of Jeremiah 22:16?
Knowing God is expressed through the practice of justice for the poor.