Jeremiah 3:25 - Let us lie down in our shame, and let our confusion cover us; for we have sinned against Yahweh our God, we and our fathers, from our youth even to this day. We have not obeyed Yahweh our God’s voice.”

Generated Verse: Jeremiah 3:25

What does "Jeremiah 3:25" mean?


Jeremiah 3:25 expresses a profound sense of collective guilt, shame, and repentance before God. Let's break down the meaning of each part:

"Let us lie down in our shame, and let our confusion cover us": This is an expression of deep humiliation and disgrace. "Lying down" can signify defeat, surrender, and a desire to hide from judgment. "Confusion covering us" implies a feeling of bewilderment, disorientation, and the consequences of their sinful actions. They recognize the weight of their wrongdoing and are overwhelmed by it.

"for we have sinned against Yahweh our God, we and our fathers, from our youth even to this day.": This is a confession of sin. They acknowledge that their actions, both individually and collectively as a nation ("we and our fathers"), have been a direct offense against Yahweh (God). The phrase "from our youth even to this day" indicates a persistent and long-standing pattern of disobedience. It suggests that sin has been ingrained in their history and culture.

"We have not obeyed Yahweh our God’s voice.": This is the core of their sin – disobedience. They admit that they have failed to listen to and follow God's commands and guidance. "Yahweh our God's voice" encompasses God's laws, prophecies, and overall will for their lives. Their failure to obey has led to their current state of shame and confusion.

In essence, the verse is a powerful statement of:

Acknowledgement of sin: They admit they have transgressed against God.
Corporate responsibility: They acknowledge their guilt not just as individuals but as a nation, carrying the weight of their ancestors' sins as well.
Long-term pattern of disobedience: The sin is not a recent occurrence but a habit ingrained over generations.
Humility and repentance: The desire to "lie down in shame" suggests a willingness to acknowledge their faults and seek forgiveness.
Recognition of God's authority: By confessing their disobedience to "Yahweh our God," they acknowledge his rightful authority over them.

Context within Jeremiah:

This verse is part of Jeremiah's broader message to the people of Judah, who had turned away from God and engaged in idolatry and other sinful practices. Jeremiah calls them to repentance, warning them of the consequences of their actions. The verse highlights the need for genuine contrition and a return to faithful obedience to God. It is part of a call for national cleansing and a renewed relationship with God.