Jeremiah 29:6

Take wives and have sons and daughters. Take wives for your sons and give your daughters in marriage, so that they too may have sons and daughters. Multiply there; do not decrease.

Study Bible

Take wives
In the context of Jeremiah 29:6, the phrase "Take wives" is a directive from God through the prophet Jeremiah to the Israelites who were exiled in Babylon. The Hebrew root for "take" is "laqach," which implies an active, intentional action. This command is significant because it encourages the exiles to establish roots and build families even in a foreign land. Historically, marriage was a covenantal relationship that symbolized stability and continuity. By instructing the Israelites to marry, God was assuring them of His continued presence and blessing, even in exile. This directive underscores the importance of family as a foundational unit in society and a means of preserving faith and culture.

and have sons and daughters
The phrase "and have sons and daughters" emphasizes the continuation of the Israelite lineage and the importance of procreation. In Hebrew culture, children were seen as a blessing from God and a sign of His favor. The Hebrew word for "sons" is "benim," and for "daughters" is "banot," both of which denote not just biological offspring but also the continuation of one's legacy and faith. This command to have children in exile is a message of hope and future restoration. It reassures the Israelites that their time in Babylon is not the end of their story, and God has plans for their future generations.

Take wives for your sons
This phrase extends the command to the next generation, ensuring that the practice of marriage and family-building continues. The directive to "Take wives for your sons" highlights the responsibility of parents to guide their children in establishing their own families. In the ancient Near Eastern context, arranged marriages were common, and parents played a significant role in selecting suitable partners for their children. This practice ensured the preservation of cultural and religious values. By encouraging this, God is reinforcing the importance of maintaining their identity and faith even in a foreign land.

and give your daughters in marriage
The phrase "and give your daughters in marriage" complements the previous directive and emphasizes the active role of parents in the marital arrangements of their daughters. The Hebrew culture placed a high value on family alliances and the continuation of the community through marriage. This command is a call to action for the exiled community to remain proactive in their cultural practices and to trust in God's plan for their future. It also reflects the biblical principle of stewardship, where parents are entrusted with the responsibility of guiding their children in the ways of the Lord.

so that they too may have sons and daughters
This phrase highlights the generational aspect of God's command. The purpose of marriage and procreation is not just for the immediate family but for the continuation of the community and the fulfillment of God's promises to His people. The Hebrew understanding of family was deeply communal, and each generation was seen as a link in the chain of God's covenantal relationship with Israel. By ensuring that their children also have families, the exiles are participating in God's redemptive plan and affirming their faith in His promises.

Multiply there
The command to "Multiply there" is reminiscent of God's original command to Adam and Eve in Genesis to "be fruitful and multiply." The Hebrew word for "multiply" is "rabah," which means to increase or grow. This directive is a call to thrive and prosper even in adverse circumstances. It is a reminder that God's blessings are not limited by geographical location or political situation. By multiplying in Babylon, the Israelites are demonstrating their trust in God's provision and His ability to bring about growth and prosperity in any situation.

and do not decrease
The phrase "and do not decrease" serves as a warning against despair and complacency. The Hebrew word for "decrease" is "ma'at," which means to diminish or become less. In the context of exile, there might have been a temptation to lose hope and give up on the future. However, God is calling His people to resist this temptation and to actively work towards growth and flourishing. This command is a powerful reminder that God's plans for His people are for their welfare and not for harm, to give them a future and a hope, as stated in Jeremiah 29:11. It is an encouragement to remain faithful and steadfast, trusting in God's ultimate plan for restoration and redemption.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Jeremiah
A prophet called by God to deliver messages to the people of Judah, including those exiled in Babylon.

2. Exiles in Babylon
The people of Judah who were taken captive by King Nebuchadnezzar and lived in Babylon during the Babylonian exile.

3. Babylon
The place where the Israelites were exiled, representing a period of judgment and discipline from God.

4. God
The ultimate authority who speaks through Jeremiah, providing guidance and hope to His people even in exile.

5. Families
The focus of the command in this verse, emphasizing the importance of family growth and continuity even in difficult circumstances.

Teaching Points

God's Sovereignty in Exile
Even in difficult circumstances, God has a plan for His people. He calls them to continue living and thriving, trusting in His ultimate purpose.

The Importance of Family
Families are central to God's design for human flourishing. Building strong, godly families is a priority, even in challenging environments.

Hope and Future
God's command to multiply and not decrease is a message of hope, indicating that the exile is not the end but a part of His larger plan for restoration.

Obedience in Adversity
Following God's commands, even when they seem counterintuitive, is crucial. The exiles were to obey and trust God's instructions for their well-being.

Community and Continuity
The call to establish families ensures the continuity of the community of faith, preserving their identity and witness in a foreign land.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Jeremiah 29:6 reflect God's long-term plan for His people, even in exile?

2. In what ways can we apply the principle of "multiplying and not decreasing" in our own lives today, especially in challenging circumstances?

3. How does the command to build families in exile relate to the broader biblical theme of hope and restoration?

4. What are some practical ways we can prioritize and nurture our families in accordance with biblical teachings?

5. How can the example of the exiles in Babylon encourage us to remain faithful and obedient to God in our own "exile" experiences?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 1:28
This verse echoes the command given to Adam and Eve to "be fruitful and multiply," highlighting the continuity of God's desire for His people to grow and thrive.

Psalm 127:3-5
These verses celebrate children as a heritage from the Lord, reinforcing the value of family and offspring.

1 Timothy 5:8
This passage emphasizes the responsibility to provide for one's family, aligning with the call to establish and nurture families even in exile.

Deuteronomy 6:6-7
The command to teach children God's commandments underscores the importance of raising godly offspring, which is implicit in the call to multiply.

Ephesians 5:22-33
The instructions for Christian households provide a framework for understanding the roles within a family, relevant to the establishment of families in Jeremiah 29:6.