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Book of Jeremiah - Chapter 2 - Verse 21

2:21
Yet I had planted thee a noble vine, wholly a right seed: how then art thou turned into the degenerate plant of a strange vine unto me?

Meaning

This verse from the book of Jeremiah in the Old Testament of the Bible uses the metaphor of a vine to illustrate a powerful message. In this verse, God is likened to a vineyard owner who planted a noble vine, symbolizing the nation of Israel, with the best seeds. However, over time, the vineyard, representing the people of Israel, has become degenerate and is compared to a strange vine that does not produce good fruit. This verse is a reflection on how the people of Israel, who were chosen by God and given every opportunity to thrive and bear good fruit, have strayed from their original purpose and have become unfaithful. The verse serves as a reminder of the consequences of turning away from God and the importance of staying true to one's roots and values. It highlights the theme of spiritual decay and the need for repentance and redemption in order to return to God's original plan and purpose for his people.

Theological Overview

Jeremiah 2:21 brings to light the theological concept of God's expectations for His people and their ultimate disobedience. The imagery of a vineyard often symbolizes God's people in the Old Testament, representing His care and cultivation of them. In this verse, God laments over the transformation of His once noble vine, planted with the right seed, into a degenerate and foreign plant. The language used here conveys a sense of disappointment and betrayal, as God had meticulously nurtured His people, only to see them turn away from Him. The word 'degenerate' signifies a turning away from the intended purpose and turning towards corruption. This verse serves as a warning to God's people about the consequences of forsaking their relationship with Him and aligning themselves with foreign influences. Through theological interpretation and word studies, we can grasp the depth of God's sorrow and the significance of remaining steadfast in our faith and loyalty to Him.

American Standard Version

Yet I had planted thee a noble vine, wholly a right seed: how then art thou turned into the degenerate branches of a foreign vine unto me?
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