Jeremiah 9:23–24 prioritizes knowing God over wisdom, might, or riches—why would an all-knowing deity require such devotion while devaluing human achievements?

Context of Jeremiah 9:23–24

Jeremiah 9:23–24 states:

“Let not the wise man boast in his wisdom; let not the strong man boast in his strength; let not the wealthy man boast in his riches. But let him who boasts boast in this: that he understands and knows Me, that I am the LORD who exercises loving devotion, justice, and righteousness on the earth—for I delight in these things,” declares the LORD.

These verses occur in a chapter where the prophet Jeremiah addresses a people who had placed undue confidence in their own pursuits and abilities. The original message was a direct rebuke of Judah’s self-reliance. Despite their outward religious practice, they were drifting further from genuine devotion. In this biblical context, God reminds them—and, by extension, all readers—that knowledge of Him is far superior to personal achievements that can quickly fade.

Knowing God as Priority

Scripture places the highest emphasis on knowing and understanding God rather than trusting in or glorifying human accolades. This call to “know” God highlights a relationship, not merely an intellectual acknowledgment. It underscores that the Creator’s ways and purposes supersede humanity’s temporal goals. Throughout Israel’s history, whenever people placed trust in kings, armies, or wealth, they repeatedly faced downfall (e.g., 2 Chronicles 32:7–8). The theme carried into the New Testament, where the focus shifts to personal relationship with God through faith—prioritizing “love the Lord your God with all your heart” (Matthew 22:37). Human knowledge, strength, or wealth are not inherently evil, but they pale in comparison to an ongoing, reverent knowledge of the One who made all things.

Human Achievements in Perspective

When the text appears to “devalue” human wisdom, might, or riches, it is not condemning them outright. Instead, Jeremiah’s words place these pursuits in perspective. Human achievements can be commendable but are fleeting; Scripture often illustrates the short-lived nature of worldly accomplishments (Psalm 103:15–16). By contrast, to know and revere God is an everlasting pursuit that transcends the bounds of mortality.

Archaeological discoveries, such as ancient city ruins mentioned in biblical narratives (e.g., Jericho, Lachish), show that even once-mighty civilizations fell, emphasizing that human might cannot preserve a kingdom forever. Inscriptions and scrolls discovered among the Dead Sea Scrolls reveal an intense devotion to preserving divine revelation over the centuries, reflecting a belief that the words of God stand the test of time—unlike human towers of prestige that inevitably crumble.

Why an All-Knowing Deity Desires Devotion

1. Relational Design

God’s desire for devotion flows from His relational nature. The text emphasizes that He “exercises loving devotion, justice, and righteousness on the earth.” Since God is relational, created beings flourish most when they live according to His design, in fellowship with Him (Genesis 1:26–27). Devotion is not a demand founded on insecurity, but a call to align with divine love and purpose.

2. Divine Purpose for Humanity

All pursuits—intellectual, physical, or financial—are ultimately directed toward the glory of the Creator. Thus, Scripture repeats that human pursuits apart from God yield emptiness (Ecclesiastes 1:14). Knowing God allows the outworking of a higher, redeemed purpose that extends beyond personal success.

3. The Contrast of Eternal vs. Temporal

God, being eternal, invests in that which endures. Human wisdom, might, and wealth often remain trapped in a temporal perspective. By inviting His people to know Him, He directs them to the only unshakable foundation. His own perfect knowledge and sovereignty overshadow ephemeral human accomplishments.

Balancing Human Achievements with Divine Devotion

Throughout the Bible, individuals like Daniel possessed great wisdom, yet their devotion remained firmly rooted in God’s character. Daniel excelled in a pagan court owing to his remarkable insight and ability to interpret dreams (Daniel 1:17), but at every juncture, he credited these gifts to the God he knew intimately (Daniel 2:20–23). Such biblical examples exhibit how achievements can be refined through a God-centered perspective.

Impact on Personal Character and Morality

True devotion fosters virtues such as humility, compassion, and righteousness—traits the text cites as “delighting” the LORD. A person who boasts solely in personal achievements can slip into pride. By placing the highest value on knowing God, believers find moral structure and purpose that honors Him and benefits society. In turn, it curbs egotistical misuse of wisdom, power, or wealth.

Insights for All Audiences

1. Universal Longing for Meaning

Even those unconvinced of the Bible’s divine origin often seek transcendent purpose. The text calls attention to a universal hunger for deeper significance. Human achievements, no matter how impressive, cannot satisfy the spiritual dimension. Historical accounts repeatedly demonstrate that empires rise and fall, while personal wealth never guarantees lasting fulfillment.

2. Consistency with Broader Scriptural Teaching

The theme of wholeheartedly seeking God emerges throughout both the Old and New Testaments. For instance, in John 17:3, Jesus teaches, “Now this is eternal life: that they may know You, the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom You have sent.” This resonates with Jeremiah’s plea, affirming that eternal life is intrinsically tied to knowing God. Such consistency illuminates that the Bible devalues mere earthly achievement not to hinder progress, but to direct hearts toward eternal realities.

3. Historical and Manuscript Support

Documents like the Dead Sea Scrolls preserve ancient writings of the prophets, corroborating the authenticity of Jeremiah’s text in remarkable detail. Their consistent transmission through centuries underscores that God’s words are trustworthy. Historical, archaeological, and manuscript evidence from various sites in the Near East further supports the reliability of the biblical witness.

Conclusion

Jeremiah 9:23–24 invites a perspective shift. It does not deny the value of human effort, intelligence, or resources but elevates knowledge of God as the ultimate pursuit. Human achievement, while admirable, remains secondary to a relationship with the eternal Creator who bestows real purpose and lasting fulfillment. By urging His people to “boast” in understanding and knowing Him, God reorients hearts and minds toward the source of genuine wisdom, power, and provision.