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Book of Jeremiah - Chapter 12 - Verse 1

12:1
Righteous art thou, O LORD, when I plead with thee: yet let me talk with thee of thy judgments: Wherefore doth the way of the wicked prosper? wherefore are all they happy that deal very treacherously?

Meaning

Within this verse, the speaker is expressing a profound understanding and belief in the righteousness of the Lord, even in the midst of questioning His ways. The speaker is acknowledging God's perfect character while also seeking to understand why the wicked seem to prosper and those who act treacherously find happiness. This verse reflects a common struggle that many people face - grappling with the apparent injustice and inequality in the world. The speaker's plea to engage with God about His judgments demonstrates a deep desire to understand His ways and seek clarity in the face of adversity.

By questioning why the way of the wicked appears to lead to prosperity and why those who act treacherously find happiness, the speaker is ultimately expressing a longing for justice and fairness in the world. This verse reminds us that it is natural to seek understanding and insight from God, even in the face of difficult and perplexing circumstances. It encourages us to have faith in God's righteousness and to trust that He is just, even when we may not fully comprehend His ways.

Theological Overview

Within this verse from the book of Jeremiah, the prophet questions why the wicked seem to prosper while the righteous suffer. This questioning of God's judgment is a common theme throughout the Bible, as individuals struggle to understand the ways of the Lord. The theological interpretation of this passage delves into the complexities of divine justice and the moral order of the universe. It raises important questions about the nature of righteousness and the apparent success of those who act in a treacherous manner. The word "righteous" in this context refers to God's moral perfection and justice, highlighting the contrast between His character and the actions of the wicked. By exploring the nuances of this verse and engaging in word studies on terms like "judgments," we can gain a deeper understanding of the theological implications and philosophical challenges presented in this passage.

American Standard Version

Righteous art thou, O Jehovah, when I contend with thee; yet would I reason the cause with thee: wherefore doth the way of the wicked prosper? wherefore are all they at ease that deal very treacherously?
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