Book of Jeremiah - Chapter 17 - Verse 13

The verse "O LORD, the hope of Israel, all that forsake thee shall be ashamed, and they that depart from me shall be written in the earth, because they have forsaken the LORD, the fountain of living waters." conveys a powerful message about the consequences of turning away from God. In this verse, the phrase "hope of Israel" refers to God as the ultimate source of hope and salvation for the people of Israel. Those who forsake God will ultimately face shame and disappointment, as they are separating themselves from the one true source of fulfillment and sustenance. The image of being "written in the earth" suggests a fleeting and temporary existence, as opposed to being inscribed in the eternal and unchanging presence of God. Ultimately, this verse serves as a reminder of the importance of remaining faithful to God and finding nourishment and sustenance in His presence, as He is the fountain of living waters that can truly quench our deepest longings and desires.

One theological interpretation of this verse focuses on the idea of the Lord being the hope of Israel. Throughout the Bible, God is portrayed as the source of hope and strength for His people. The phrase "fountain of living waters" signifies God’s life-giving and sustaining presence in the lives of those who trust in Him. Turning away from God leads to shame and being “written in the earth,” which implies being forgotten or cast aside. The imagery of writing in the earth emphasizes the temporary and fleeting nature of those who reject God. This verse serves as a warning to those who forsake the Lord and a reminder of the consequences of departing from His ways. It emphasizes the importance of staying connected to God as the ultimate source of hope and life.