Jeremiah 23:23 Meaning and Explanation
“Am I a God at hand, saith the LORD, and not a God afar off?”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →God's presence is universal; He cannot be limited to a location.
The Context of Jeremiah 23:23
God asserts His attributes in response to false prophets who may imagine limited divine awareness.
What Does Jeremiah 23:23 Mean?
The question 'Am I a God at hand, saith the LORD, and not a God afar off?' uses spatial language to address omnipresence. 'At hand' (close) and 'afar off' (distant) both apply to God. He is not limited by geography or distance. This matters because false prophets might think they can act in some place where God is not looking, or that distance from judgment is possible.
For a people who will be exiled far from their land, this is crucial assurance: God is not left behind in Jerusalem. Wherever they are scattered, God's presence and awareness accompany them. Omnipresence becomes a comfort and a warning: no one can hide from God, and no exile is beyond His reach.
Frequently Asked Questions About Jeremiah 23:23
What does Jeremiah 23:23 mean?
God's presence is universal; He cannot be limited to a location.
What is the context of Jeremiah 23:23?
God asserts His attributes in response to false prophets who may imagine limited divine awareness.