Definition: I have sent also unto you all my servants the prophets, rising up early and sending [them], saying, Return ye now every man from his evil way, and amend your doings, and go not after other gods to serve them, and ye shall dwell in the land which I have given to you and to your fathers: but ye have not inclined your ear, nor hearkened unto me.
Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Jeremiah 35:15. It’s a really important message about forgiveness and returning to God. Here's what it means in simpler terms: The Core Message: Jeremiah is telling the people of Judah (the area around Jerusalem) that he wants them to turn away from their mistakes and evil ways. He’s sending messengers – “the prophets” – to go out and tell everyone to change. Let's unpack it piece by piece: “I have sent also unto you…” : Jeremiah is speaking directly to the people of Judah. “…all my servants…” : He’s not just sending one messenger; he’s sending many, representing a whole group of people who are responsible for their mistakes. “…rising up early and sending [them]…” : This emphasizes that this isn't a passive message – these messengers actively go out to tell people. "...saying, Return ye now every man from your evil way..." : This is the main plea. He’s asking everyone to turn back . “Evil way” means making wrong choices, being selfish, or disobeying God's rules. "...and amend your doings, and go not after other gods to serve them..." : This is a crucial part. Jeremiah is telling people to stop worshipping idols and false gods. It’s about rejecting idolatry – worshipping things that aren’t real or true. He wants people to return to the God they already know and trust. "...ye shall dwell in the land which I have given to you and to your fathers..." : He's talking about returning to a promised land, a place of safety and blessing. It's like saying, "You’re welcome back home." BUT ye have not inclined your ear, nor hearkened unto me.” : This is the most important part . He’s pointing out that people ignored his message. They didn’t listen to what he was telling them, and they continued down a bad path. Overall Meaning – It's about forgiveness and repentance: Jeremiah is essentially saying: "I'm giving you a chance to repent (change your ways) and start over. If you don’t, there will be consequences." The verse emphasizes that God wants forgiveness and a fresh start for the people of Judah, but it also acknowledges that they need to take responsibility for their own choices. Think of it like this: It's a call to action – a plea for repentance and a chance to return to the right path. --- Do you want me to: Explain any part of this verse in more detail? Give you some examples of what Jeremiah might be talking about (to help understand the context)? Discuss why this verse is important in biblical history?