Jeremiah 5:11 Meaning and Explanation
“For the house of Israel and the house of Judah have dealt very treacherously against me, saith the LORD.”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →God indicts both Israel and Judah for treacherous betrayal of their covenant relationship with Him.
The Context of Jeremiah 5:11
Both Israel and Judah stand charged by God with deliberate, conscious betrayal of their covenant.
What Does Jeremiah 5:11 Mean?
This verse formally charges Israel and Judah—the divided kingdoms—with 'treachery' (Hebrew bagad). This is not mere disobedience but deliberate betrayal of a relationship. Israel (the northern kingdom, already fallen by Jeremiah's time) and Judah (the southern kingdom, to whom the prophecy now speaks) both share the same charge: they have acted with treachery against God. The emphasis on 'very treacherously' stresses the depth and deliberation of their covenant breaking.
Treachery implies a relationship that was established and then violated. Israel and Judah know God's covenant; they have experienced His protection and provision. Yet they have chosen to betray that relationship by serving other gods and living unjustly. This is not passive failure but active rebellion. God's use of both kingdoms' names encompasses the full scope of His people, showing that the charge applies to all.
Jeremiah 5:11 in the Original Language
bagad (בָּגַד), 'dealt treacherously' — to deal falsely, to betray; implies breaking a relationship of trust intentionally.
Frequently Asked Questions About Jeremiah 5:11
What does Jeremiah 5:11 mean?
God indicts both Israel and Judah for treacherous betrayal of their covenant relationship with Him.
What is the context of Jeremiah 5:11?
Both Israel and Judah stand charged by God with deliberate, conscious betrayal of their covenant.