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Book of Jeremiah - Chapter 31 - Verse 22

31:22
How long wilt thou go about, O thou backsliding daughter? for the LORD hath created a new thing in the earth, A woman shall compass a man.

Meaning

Jeremiah 31:22 is a powerful verse that addresses the backsliding of the daughter of Israel and the new thing that the Lord has created on earth. The phrase "backsliding daughter" refers to the people of Israel who have turned away from God and his ways. The verse serves as a call to repentance, urging the people to turn back to the Lord and seek his guidance and forgiveness. The second part of the verse speaks of a new thing that the Lord is doing in the earth, where a woman will encompass a man. This can be interpreted as a metaphor for the restoration and redemption that God is bringing about through his grace and power. It symbolizes a new era where gender roles may be overturned, and women may have a more prominent role in society. Overall, Jeremiah 31:22 is a profound verse that encourages repentance and highlights the transformative work of God.

Theological Overview

In this verse from the book of Jeremiah, the prophet addresses the nation of Israel, referring to them as a "backsliding daughter." The Hebrew word for backsliding, "meshubah," conveys the idea of turning away or going astray from God. Jeremiah is warning the people of Israel about their unfaithfulness and calling them to repentance. The phrase "A woman shall compass a man" is a metaphorical expression that has been subject to various interpretations. Some scholars suggest that it refers to the reversal of traditional gender roles, symbolizing a new order or a change in the social hierarchy. Others see it as a foreshadowing of the birth of Jesus, where a woman (Mary) would bring forth the Savior (Jesus). Overall, this verse serves as a powerful reminder of God's ability to bring about new beginnings and transformations, even in the midst of disobedience and spiritual decline.

American Standard Version

How long wilt thou go hither and thither, O thou backsliding daughter? for Jehovah hath created a new thing in the earth: a woman shall encompass a man.
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