Jeremiah 32:23 Meaning and Explanation
“And they came in, and possessed it; but they obeyed not thy voice, neither walked in thy law; they have done nothing of all that thou commandedst them to do: therefore thou hast caused all this evil to come upon them:”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →The people received the land but disobeyed God's voice and law, so God has brought judgment.
The Context of Jeremiah 32:23
Israel's disobedience explains the judgment.
What Does Jeremiah 32:23 Mean?
Jeremiah acknowledges the full history: possession followed by disobedience. Despite inheriting the land of blessing, the people refused to obey God's voice or walk in His law. This was not ignorance but rebellion. Therefore, the 'evil' that has come upon them—exile, siege, destruction—flows logically from their refusal.
Jeremiah confesses the justice of the judgment. He is not pleading innocence but admitting culpability. Yet even as he acknowledges God's justice in judgment, he is about to plead for restoration. Both can be true: judgment is deserved, and restoration is still promised.
Frequently Asked Questions About Jeremiah 32:23
What does Jeremiah 32:23 mean?
The people received the land but disobeyed God's voice and law, so God has brought judgment.
What is the context of Jeremiah 32:23?
Israel's disobedience explains the judgment.