Jeremiah 31:18 Meaning and Explanation
“I have surely heard Ephraim bemoaning himself thus; Thou hast chastised me, and I was chastised, as a bullock unaccustomed to the yoke: turn thou me, and I shall be turned; for thou art the LORD my God.”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →Ephraim confesses that God's discipline was just and asks to be restored.
The Context of Jeremiah 31:18
A confession of God's just correction and request for restoration.
What Does Jeremiah 31:18 Mean?
The northern kingdom of Ephraim speaks in genuine repentance, acknowledging God's correction. The image of an untamed bullock accepting the yoke portrays both the severity of discipline and its purpose: to bring obedience and order. This is discipline with intent, not mere punishment.
'Turn thou me, and I shall be turned'—Ephraim recognizes that repentance depends on God's grace. Without divine turning, human turning is impossible. The confession affirms God's sovereignty while expressing Ephraim's willingness to be transformed. The address 'thou art the LORD my God' restores intimacy and covenant language.
Jeremiah 31:18 in the Original Language
ayom (איום), 'chastised'—disciplined with purpose and authority.
Frequently Asked Questions About Jeremiah 31:18
What does Jeremiah 31:18 mean?
Ephraim confesses that God's discipline was just and asks to be restored.
What is the context of Jeremiah 31:18?
A confession of God's just correction and request for restoration.