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For I am Israel's Father, and Ephraim is My firstborn."</title><link rel="canonical" href="https://biblehub.com/jeremiah/31-9.htm" /><link rel="stylesheet" href="/new9.css" type="text/css" media="Screen" /><meta property="og:image" content="https://biblehub.com/visuals/10/24_Jer_31_09.jpg" /><meta property="og:title" content="Jeremiah 31:9 - Mourning Turned to Joy" /><meta property="og:site_name" content="Bible Hub" /><meta property="og:description" content="They will come with weeping, and by their supplication I will lead them; I will make them walk beside streams of waters, on a level path where they will not stumble. 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I will lead them beside streams of water on a level path where they will not stumble, because I am Israel&#8217s father, and Ephraim is my firstborn son. <a href="/nlt/jeremiah/31.htm">New Living Translation</a> Tears of joy will stream down their faces, and I will lead them home with great care. They will walk beside quiet streams and on smooth paths where they will not stumble. For I am Israel’s father, and Ephraim is my oldest child. <a href="/esv/jeremiah/31.htm">English Standard Version</a> With weeping they shall come, and with pleas for mercy I will lead them back, I will make them walk by brooks of water, in a straight path in which they shall not stumble, for I am a father to Israel, and Ephraim is my firstborn. <a href="/bsb/jeremiah/31.htm">Berean Standard Bible</a> They will come with weeping, and by their supplication I will lead them; I will make them walk beside streams of waters, on a level path where they will not stumble. For I am Israel’s Father, and Ephraim is My firstborn.” <a href="/kjv/jeremiah/31.htm">King James Bible</a> They shall come with weeping, and with supplications will I lead them: I will cause them to walk by the rivers of waters in a straight way, wherein they shall not stumble: for I am a father to Israel, and Ephraim is my firstborn. <a href="/nkjv/jeremiah/31.htm">New King James Version</a> They shall come with weeping, And with supplications I will lead them. I will cause them to walk by the rivers of waters, In a straight way in which they shall not stumble; For I am a Father to Israel, And Ephraim is My firstborn. <a href="/nasb_/jeremiah/31.htm">New American Standard Bible</a> “They will come with weeping, And by pleading I will bring them; I will lead them by streams of waters, On a straight path on which they will not stumble; For I am a father to Israel, And Ephraim is My firstborn.” <a href="/nasb/jeremiah/31.htm">NASB 1995</a> &#8220With weeping they will come, And by supplication I will lead them; I will make them walk by streams of waters, On a straight path in which they will not stumble; For I am a father to Israel, And Ephraim is My firstborn.&#8221 <a href="/nasb77/jeremiah/31.htm">NASB 1977 </a> “With weeping they shall come, And by supplication I will lead them; I will make them walk by streams of waters, On a straight path in which they shall not stumble; For I am a father to Israel, And Ephraim is My first-born.” <a href="/lsb/jeremiah/31.htm">Legacy Standard Bible </a> With weeping they will come, And by supplication I will lead them; I will make them walk by streams of waters, On a straight path in which they will not stumble; For I am a father to Israel, And Ephraim is My firstborn.” <a href="/amp/jeremiah/31.htm">Amplified Bible</a> “They will come with weeping [in repentance and for joy], And by [their] prayer [for the future] I will lead them; I will make them walk by streams of waters, On a straight path in which they will not stumble, For I am a Father to Israel, And Ephraim (Israel) is My firstborn.” <a href="/csb/jeremiah/31.htm">Christian Standard Bible</a> They will come weeping, but I will bring them back with consolation. I will lead them to wadis filled with water, by a smooth way where they will not stumble, for I am Israel’s Father, and Ephraim is my firstborn. <a href="/hcsb/jeremiah/31.htm">Holman Christian Standard Bible</a> They will come weeping, but I will bring them back with consolation. I will lead them to wadis filled with water by a smooth way where they will not stumble, for I am Israel&#8217s Father, and Ephraim is My firstborn. <a href="/asv/jeremiah/31.htm">American Standard Version</a> They shall come with weeping; and with supplications will I lead them: I will cause them to walk by rivers of waters, in a straight way wherein they shall not stumble; for I am a father to Israel, and Ephraim is my first-born. <a href="/cev/jeremiah/31.htm">Contemporary English Version</a> They will weep and pray as I bring them home. I will lead them to streams of water. They will walk on a level road and not stumble. I am a father to Israel, my favorite children. <a href="/erv/jeremiah/31.htm">English Revised Version</a> They shall come with weeping, and with supplications will I lead them: I will cause them to walk by rivers of waters, in a straight way wherein they shall not stumble: for I am a father to Israel, and Ephraim is my firstborn. <a href="/gwt/jeremiah/31.htm">GOD'S WORD® Translation</a> They will cry as they return. They will pray as I bring them back. I will lead them beside streams on a level path where they will not stumble. I will be a Father to Israel, and Ephraim will be my firstborn. <a href="/gnt/jeremiah/31.htm">Good News Translation</a> My people will return weeping, praying as I lead them back. I will guide them to streams of water, on a smooth road where they will not stumble. I am like a father to Israel, and Ephraim is my oldest son." <a href="/isv/jeremiah/31.htm">International Standard Version</a> They'll come crying, and I'll lead them as they pray for mercy. I'll make them walk by streams of water, along a straight path on which they won't stumble. For I am Israel's father, and Ephraim is my firstborn." <a href="/msb/jeremiah/31.htm">Majority Standard Bible</a> They will come with weeping, and by their supplication I will lead them; I will make them walk beside streams of waters, on a level path where they will not stumble. For I am Israel?s Father, and Ephraim is My firstborn.? <a href="/net/jeremiah/31.htm">NET Bible</a> They will come back shedding tears of contrition. I will bring them back praying prayers of repentance. I will lead them besides streams of water, along smooth paths where they will never stumble. I will do this because I am Israel's father; Ephraim is my firstborn son.'" <a href="/nheb/jeremiah/31.htm">New Heart English Bible</a> They shall come with weeping; and with petitions will I lead them: I will cause them to walk by rivers of waters, in a straight way in which they shall not stumble; for I am a father to Israel, and Ephraim is my firstborn.'" <a href="/wbt/jeremiah/31.htm">Webster's Bible Translation</a> They shall come with weeping, and with supplications will I lead them: I will cause them to walk by the rivers of waters in a straight way, wherein they shall not stumble: for I am a father to Israel, and Ephraim is my first-born. <a href="/web/jeremiah/31.htm">World English Bible</a> They will come with weeping. I will lead them with petitions. I will cause them to walk by rivers of waters, in a straight way in which they won’t stumble; for I am a father to Israel. Ephraim is my firstborn. <div class="vheading2">Literal Translations</div><a href="/lsv/jeremiah/31.htm">Literal Standard Version</a> They come in with weeping, "" And I bring them with supplications, "" I cause them to go to streams of waters, "" In a right way—they do not stumble in it, "" For I have been a Father to Israel, "" And Ephraim—he [is] My firstborn.” <a href="/ylt/jeremiah/31.htm">Young's Literal Translation</a> With weeping they come in, And with supplications I bring them, I cause them to go unto streams of waters, In a right way -- they stumble not in it, For I have been to Israel for a father, And Ephraim -- My first-born is he. <a href="/slt/jeremiah/31.htm">Smith's Literal Translation</a> In weeping will they come, and I will lead them in mercies; I will cause them to go to the streams of waters in a straight way; they shall not stumble in it: for I was to Israel for a father, and Ephraim he is my first-born.<div class="vheading2">Catholic Translations</div><a href="/drb/jeremiah/31.htm">Douay-Rheims Bible</a> They shall come with weeping: and I will bring them back in mercy: and I will bring them through the torrents of waters in a right way, and they shall not stumble in it: for I am a father to Israel, and Ephraim is my firstborn. <a href="/cpdv/jeremiah/31.htm">Catholic Public Domain Version</a> They will approach with weeping. And I will lead them back with mercy. And I will lead them through the torrents of water, by an upright way, and they will not stumble in it. For I have become Father to Israel, and Ephraim is my firstborn.” <a href="/nabre/jeremiah/31.htm">New American Bible</a> With weeping they shall come, but with compassion I will guide them; I will lead them to streams of water, on a level road, without stumbling. For I am a father to Israel, Ephraim is my firstborn. <a href="/nrsvce/jeremiah/31.htm">New Revised Standard Version</a> With weeping they shall come, and with consolations I will lead them back, I will let them walk by brooks of water, in a straight path in which they shall not stumble; for I have become a father to Israel, and Ephraim is my firstborn.<div class="vheading2">Translations from Aramaic</div><a href="/lamsa/jeremiah/31.htm">Lamsa Bible</a> They shall go with weeping, but they shall return with fervent prayer; I will lead them by the paths that have water, in straight ways in which they shall not stumble; for I am a father to Israel, and Ephraim is my first-born. <a href="/hpbt/jeremiah/31.htm">Peshitta Holy Bible Translated</a> With weeping they shall depart and in fervent prayer they shall come. I shall lead them on the path of the waters, in the straight ways in which they will not stumble, because I have been to Israel for a Father and Aphrim was my firstborn<div class="vheading2">OT Translations</div><a href="/jps/jeremiah/31.htm">JPS Tanakh 1917</a> They shall come with weeping, And with supplications will I lead them; I will cause them to walk by rivers of waters, In a straight way wherein they shall not stumble; For I am become a father to Israel, And Ephraim is My first-born. <a href="/sep/jeremiah/31.htm">Brenton Septuagint Translation</a> They went forth with weeping, and I will bring them back with consolation, causing them to lodge by the channels of waters in a straight way, and they shall not err in it: for I am become a father to Israel, and Ephraim is my first-born. <a href="/parallel/jeremiah/31-9.htm">Additional Translations ...</a></div></div></div><div id="centbox"><div class="padcent"><a name="audio" id="audio"></a><div class="vheadingv">Audio Bible</div><iframe width="100%" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/5k55c51ZGhs?start=9237" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe> <div class="vheadingv">Context</div><a href="/bsb/jeremiah/31.htm">Mourning Turned to Joy</a> …8Behold, I will bring them from the land of the north and gather them from the farthest parts of the earth, including the blind and the lame, expectant mothers and women in labor. They will return as a great assembly! 9<a href="/hebrew/935.htm" title="935: yā·ḇō·’ū (V-Qal-Imperf-3mp) -- To come in, come, go in, go. A primitive root; to go or come.">They will come</a> <a href="/hebrew/1065.htm" title="1065: biḇ·ḵî (Prep-b:: N-ms) -- A weeping. From bakah; a weeping; by analogy, a dripping.">with weeping,</a> <a href="/hebrew/8469.htm" title="8469: ū·ḇə·ṯa·ḥă·nū·nîm (Conj-w, Prep-b:: N-mp) -- Supplication for favor. Or tachanuwnah; from chanan; earnest prayer.">and by their supplication</a> <a href="/hebrew/2986.htm" title="2986: ’ō·w·ḇî·lêm (V-Hifil-Imperf-1cs:: 3mp) -- To conduct, bear along. A primitive root; properly, to flow; causatively, to bring.">I will lead them;</a> <a href="/hebrew/1980.htm" title="1980: ’ō·w·lî·ḵêm (V-Hifil-Imperf-1cs:: 3mp) -- To go, come, walk. Akin to yalak; a primitive root; to walk.">I will make them walk</a> <a href="/hebrew/413.htm" title="413: ’el- (Prep) -- To, into, towards. ">beside</a> <a href="/hebrew/5158.htm" title="5158: na·ḥă·lê (N-mpc) -- Or nachlah; or nachalah; from nachal in its original sense; a stream, especially a winter torrent; a valley; also a shaft.">streams</a> <a href="/hebrew/4325.htm" title="4325: ma·yim (N-mp) -- Waters, water. Dual of a primitive noun; water; figuratively, juice; by euphemism, urine, semen.">of waters,</a> <a href="/hebrew/3477.htm" title="3477: yā·šār (Adj-ms) -- Straight, right. From yashar; straight.">on a level</a> <a href="/hebrew/1870.htm" title="1870: bə·ḏe·reḵ (Prep-b:: N-cs) -- Way, road, distance, journey, manner. From darak; a road; figuratively, a course of life or mode of action, often adverb.">path</a> <a href="/hebrew/3808.htm" title="3808: lō (Adv-NegPrt) -- Not. Or lowi; or loh; a primitive particle; not; by implication, no; often used with other particles.">where they will not</a> <a href="/hebrew/3782.htm" title="3782: yik·kā·šə·lū (V-Nifal-Imperf-3mp) -- To stumble, stagger, totter. A primitive root; to totter or waver; by implication, to falter, stumble, faint or fall.">stumble.</a> <a href="/hebrew/bāh (Prep:: 3fs) -- "></a> <a href="/hebrew/3588.htm" title="3588: kî- (Conj) -- That, for, when. ">For</a> <a href="/hebrew/1961.htm" title="1961: hā·yî·ṯî (V-Qal-Perf-1cs) -- To fall out, come to pass, become, be. A primitive root; to exist, i.e. Be or become, come to pass.">I am</a> <a href="/hebrew/3478.htm" title="3478: lə·yiś·rā·’êl (Prep-l:: N-proper-ms) -- From sarah and 'el; he will rule as God; Jisrael, a symbolical name of Jacob; also of his posterity.">Israel’s</a> <a href="/hebrew/1.htm" title="1: lə·’āḇ (Prep-l:: N-ms) -- Father. A primitive word; father, in a literal and immediate, or figurative and remote application).">Father,</a> <a href="/hebrew/669.htm" title="669: wə·’ep̄·ra·yim (Conj-w:: N-proper-ms) -- Dual of masculine form of 'Ephraath; double fruit; Ephrajim, a son of Joseph; also the tribe descended from him, and its territory.">and Ephraim</a> <a href="/hebrew/1060.htm" title="1060: bə·ḵō·rî (N-msc:: 1cs) -- First-born. From bakar; firstborn; hence, chief.">is My firstborn.”</a> <a href="/hebrew/1931.htm" title="1931: hū (Pro-3ms) -- He, she, it. "></a> 10Hear, O nations, the word of the LORD, and proclaim it in distant coastlands: “The One who scattered Israel will gather them and keep them as a shepherd keeps his flock.…<div class="cred"><a href="//berean.bible">Berean Standard Bible</a> · <a href="//berean.bible/downloads.htm">Download</a></div> <a name="crossref" id="crossref"></a><div class="vheading">Cross References</div><div id="crf"><a href="/isaiah/49-10.htm">Isaiah 49:10</a> They will not hunger or thirst, nor will scorching heat or sun beat down on them. For He who has compassion on them will guide them and lead them beside springs of water. <a href="/hosea/11-3.htm">Hosea 11:3-4</a> It was I who taught Ephraim to walk, taking them by the arms, but they never realized that it was I who healed them. / I led them with cords of kindness, with ropes of love; I lifted the yoke from their necks and bent down to feed them. <a href="/isaiah/35-10.htm">Isaiah 35:10</a> So the redeemed of the LORD will return and enter Zion with singing, crowned with everlasting joy. Gladness and joy will overtake them, and sorrow and sighing will flee. <a href="/isaiah/40-11.htm">Isaiah 40:11</a> He tends His flock like a shepherd; He gathers the lambs in His arms and carries them close to His heart. He gently leads the nursing ewes. <a href="/psalms/23-1.htm">Psalm 23:1-3</a> A Psalm of David. The LORD is my shepherd; I shall not want. / He makes me lie down in green pastures; He leads me beside quiet waters. / He restores my soul; He guides me in the paths of righteousness for the sake of His name. <a href="/isaiah/42-16.htm">Isaiah 42:16</a> I will lead the blind by a way they did not know; I will guide them on unfamiliar paths. I will turn darkness into light before them and rough places into level ground. These things I will do for them, and I will not forsake them. <a href="/revelation/7-17.htm">Revelation 7:17</a> For the Lamb in the center of the throne will be their shepherd. ‘He will lead them to springs of living water,’ and ‘God will wipe away every tear from their eyes.’” <a href="/isaiah/43-19.htm">Isaiah 43:19-20</a> Behold, I am about to do something new; even now it is coming. Do you not see it? Indeed, I will make a way in the wilderness and streams in the desert. / The beasts of the field will honor Me, the jackals and the ostriches, because I provide water in the wilderness and rivers in the desert, to give drink to My chosen people. <a href="/psalms/126-5.htm">Psalm 126:5-6</a> Those who sow in tears will reap with shouts of joy. / He who goes out weeping, bearing a trail of seed, will surely return with shouts of joy, carrying sheaves of grain. <a href="/isaiah/63-9.htm">Isaiah 63:9</a> In all their distress, He too was afflicted, and the Angel of His Presence saved them. In His love and compassion He redeemed them; He lifted them up and carried them all the days of old. <a href="/john/10-14.htm">John 10:14-16</a> I am the good shepherd. I know My sheep and My sheep know Me, / just as the Father knows Me and I know the Father. And I lay down My life for the sheep. / I have other sheep that are not of this fold. I must bring them in as well, and they will listen to My voice. Then there will be one flock and one shepherd. <a href="/ezekiel/34-11.htm">Ezekiel 34:11-16</a> For this is what the Lord GOD says: ‘Behold, I Myself will search for My flock and seek them out. / As a shepherd looks for his scattered sheep when he is among the flock, so I will look for My flock. I will rescue them from all the places to which they were scattered on a day of clouds and darkness. / I will bring them out from the peoples, gather them from the countries, and bring them into their own land. I will feed them on the mountains of Israel, in the ravines, and in all the settlements of the land. ... <a href="/matthew/11-28.htm">Matthew 11:28-30</a> Come to Me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. / Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. / For My yoke is easy and My burden is light.” <a href="/john/16-20.htm">John 16:20-22</a> Truly, truly, I tell you, you will weep and wail while the world rejoices. You will grieve, but your grief will turn to joy. / A woman has pain in childbirth because her time has come; but when she brings forth her child, she forgets her anguish because of her joy that a child has been born into the world. / So also you have sorrow now, but I will see you again and your hearts will rejoice, and no one will take away your joy. <a href="/2_corinthians/6-18.htm">2 Corinthians 6:18</a> And: “I will be a Father to you, and you will be My sons and daughters, says the Lord Almighty.”</div> <a name="tsk" id="tsk"><div class="vheading">Treasury of Scripture</div>They shall come with weeping, and with supplications will I lead them: I will cause them to walk by the rivers of waters in a straight way, wherein they shall not stumble: for I am a father to Israel, and Ephraim is my firstborn.come.<a href="/jeremiah/3-4.htm">Jeremiah 3:4</a> Wilt thou not from this time cry unto me, My father, thou art the guide of my youth?<a href="/jeremiah/50-4.htm">Jeremiah 50:4</a> In those days, and in that time, saith the LORD, the children of Israel shall come, they and the children of Judah together, going and weeping: they shall go, and seek the LORD their God.<a href="/psalms/126-5.htm">Psalm 126:5,6</a> They that sow in tears shall reap in joy… supplications.<a href="/psalms/23-2.htm">Psalm 23:2</a> He maketh me to lie down in green pastures: he leadeth me beside the still waters.<a href="/isaiah/35-6.htm">Isaiah 35:6-8</a> Then shall the lame man leap as an hart, and the tongue of the dumb sing: for in the wilderness shall waters break out, and streams in the desert… <a href="/isaiah/41-17.htm">Isaiah 41:17-19</a> When the poor and needy seek water, and there is none, and their tongue faileth for thirst, I the LORD will hear them, I the God of Israel will not forsake them… in a.<a href="/isaiah/40-3.htm">Isaiah 40:3,4</a> The voice of him that crieth in the wilderness, Prepare ye the way of the LORD, make straight in the desert a highway for our God… <a href="/isaiah/57-14.htm">Isaiah 57:14</a> And shall say, Cast ye up, cast ye up, prepare the way, take up the stumblingblock out of the way of my people.<a href="/isaiah/63-13.htm">Isaiah 63:13</a> That led them through the deep, as an horse in the wilderness, that they should not stumble?for I.<a href="/jeremiah/31-20.htm">Jeremiah 31:20</a> Is Ephraim my dear son? is he a pleasant child? for since I spake against him, I do earnestly remember him still: therefore my bowels are troubled for him; I will surely have mercy upon him, saith the LORD.<a href="/jeremiah/3-4.htm">Jeremiah 3:4,19</a> Wilt thou not from this time cry unto me, My father, thou art the guide of my youth? … <a href="/exodus/4-22.htm">Exodus 4:22</a> And thou shalt say unto Pharaoh, Thus saith the LORD, Israel is my son, even my firstborn:Ephraim.<a href="/ezekiel/34-12.htm">Ezekiel 34:12-14</a> As a shepherd seeketh out his flock in the day that he is among his sheep that are scattered; so will I seek out my sheep, and will deliver them out of all places where they have been scattered in the cloudy and dark day… <div class="vheading">Jump to Previous</div><a href="/isaiah/32-2.htm">Brooks</a> <a href="/jeremiah/31-2.htm">Cause</a> <a href="/jeremiah/16-7.htm">Consolations</a> <a href="/jeremiah/31-6.htm">Ephraim</a> <a href="/jeremiah/31-6.htm">E'phraim</a> <a href="/jeremiah/27-1.htm">First</a> <a href="/isaiah/14-30.htm">Firstborn</a> <a href="/isaiah/14-30.htm">First-Born</a> <a href="/jeremiah/3-4.htm">Guide</a> <a href="/jeremiah/31-7.htm">Israel</a> <a href="/jeremiah/3-21.htm">Israel's</a> <a href="/jeremiah/23-16.htm">Lead</a> <a href="/jeremiah/23-12.htm">Path</a> <a href="/jeremiah/3-21.htm">Petitions</a> <a href="/isaiah/50-2.htm">Rivers</a> <a href="/jeremiah/4-20.htm">Straight</a> <a href="/jeremiah/18-14.htm">Streams</a> <a href="/jeremiah/20-11.htm">Stumble</a> <a href="/jeremiah/15-11.htm">Supplication</a> <a href="/jeremiah/3-21.htm">Supplications</a> <a href="/jeremiah/26-4.htm">Walk</a> <a href="/jeremiah/23-15.htm">Water</a> <a href="/jeremiah/18-14.htm">Waters</a> <a href="/jeremiah/31-2.htm">Way</a> <a href="/jeremiah/25-33.htm">Weeping</a> <a href="/jeremiah/22-28.htm">Wherein</a><div class="vheading2">Jump to Next</div><a href="/joel/1-20.htm">Brooks</a> <a href="/jeremiah/32-10.htm">Cause</a> <a href="/job/15-11.htm">Consolations</a> <a href="/jeremiah/31-18.htm">Ephraim</a> <a href="/jeremiah/31-18.htm">E'phraim</a> <a href="/jeremiah/33-7.htm">First</a> <a href="/ezekiel/20-26.htm">Firstborn</a> <a href="/ezekiel/20-26.htm">First-Born</a> <a href="/jeremiah/31-32.htm">Guide</a> <a href="/jeremiah/31-10.htm">Israel</a> <a href="/jeremiah/50-20.htm">Israel's</a> <a href="/jeremiah/31-32.htm">Lead</a> <a href="/lamentations/3-11.htm">Path</a> <a href="/daniel/9-3.htm">Petitions</a> <a href="/jeremiah/46-7.htm">Rivers</a> <a href="/jeremiah/31-39.htm">Straight</a> <a href="/lamentations/3-48.htm">Streams</a> <a href="/jeremiah/46-6.htm">Stumble</a> <a href="/jeremiah/36-7.htm">Supplication</a> <a href="/daniel/9-3.htm">Supplications</a> <a href="/jeremiah/32-23.htm">Walk</a> <a href="/jeremiah/38-6.htm">Water</a> <a href="/jeremiah/41-12.htm">Waters</a> <a href="/jeremiah/31-21.htm">Way</a> <a href="/jeremiah/31-13.htm">Weeping</a> <a href="/jeremiah/35-7.htm">Wherein</a><div class="vheading2">Jeremiah 31</div>1. <a href="/jeremiah/31-1.htm">The restoration of Israel.</a> 10. <a href="/jeremiah/31-10.htm">The publication thereof.</a> 15. <a href="/jeremiah/31-15.htm">Rahel mourning is comforted.</a> 18. <a href="/jeremiah/31-18.htm">Ephraim repenting is brought home again.</a> 22. <a href="/jeremiah/31-22.htm">Christ is promised.</a> 27. <a href="/jeremiah/31-27.htm">His care over the church.</a> 31. <a href="/jeremiah/31-31.htm">His new covenant.</a> 35. <a href="/jeremiah/31-35.htm">The stability,</a> 38. <a href="/jeremiah/31-38.htm">and amplitude of the church.</a> </div></div><div id="mdd"><div align="center"><div class="bot2"><table align="center" width="100%"><tr><td><div align="center"> <script id="3d27ed63fc4348d5b062c4527ae09445"> (new Image()).src = 'https://capi.connatix.com/tr/si?token=51ce25d5-1a8c-424a-8695-4bd48c750f35&cid=3a9f82d0-4344-4f8d-ac0c-e1a0eb43a405'; </script> <script id="b817b7107f1d4a7997da1b3c33457e03"> (new Image()).src = 'https://capi.connatix.com/tr/si?token=cb0edd8b-b416-47eb-8c6d-3cc96561f7e8&cid=3a9f82d0-4344-4f8d-ac0c-e1a0eb43a405'; </script>  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-2'> </div>  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-0' style='max-width: 300px;'> </div>  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-3'> </div>  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-1' style='max-width: 300px;'> </div>  <div align="center" id='div-gpt-ad-1531425649696-0'> </div> <ins class="adsbygoogle" style="display:inline-block;width:200px;height:200px" data-ad-client="ca-pub-3753401421161123" data-ad-slot="3592799687"></ins> <script> (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); </script> </div> </td></tr></table></div></div></div><div id="combox"><div class="padcom"><a name="study" id="study"></a><div class="vheading"><table width="100%"><tr><td width="99%" valign="top"><a href="/study/jeremiah/31.htm">Study Bible</a></td><td width="1%" valign="top"><a href="/study/jeremiah/" title="Book Summary and Study">Book ◦</a> <a href="/study/chapters/jeremiah/31.htm" title="Chapter summary and Study">Chapter </a></tr></table></div>They will come with weeping This phrase reflects the deep repentance and sorrow of the Israelites as they return to God. In the biblical context, weeping often signifies genuine contrition and a turning away from sin (<a href="/joel/2-12.htm">Joel 2:12-13</a>). Historically, the Israelites experienced exile and suffering due to their disobedience, and their return is marked by a heartfelt acknowledgment of their past transgressions. This weeping is not just an expression of sorrow but also a sign of hope and restoration, as God promises to bring them back.and by their supplication I will lead them Supplication indicates earnest prayer and petition. The Israelites' return is not just physical but spiritual, as they seek God's guidance and mercy. This aligns with the biblical theme of God responding to the prayers of His people (<a href="/2_chronicles/7-14.htm">2 Chronicles 7:14</a>). The leadership of God in response to supplication underscores His role as a shepherd, guiding His flock back to safety and prosperity.I will make them walk beside streams of waters Streams of waters symbolize refreshment, life, and abundance. In the arid climate of the Near East, water is a precious resource, and its presence signifies God's provision and care (<a href="/psalms/23-2.htm">Psalm 23:2</a>). This imagery also connects to the spiritual nourishment that God provides, as seen in Jesus' offer of living water in <a href="/john/4-10.htm">John 4:10-14</a>. The promise of walking beside streams indicates a future of peace and divine blessing.on a level path where they will not stumble A level path represents safety, stability, and ease of travel. In ancient times, uneven and rocky paths were dangerous, symbolizing life's challenges and obstacles. God's promise to make the path level signifies His protection and the removal of hindrances (<a href="/isaiah/40-4.htm">Isaiah 40:4</a>). This assurance of not stumbling reflects God's faithfulness in guiding His people securely, akin to the guidance offered by Jesus as the way (<a href="/john/14-6.htm">John 14:6</a>).For I am Israel’s Father This declaration emphasizes the intimate relationship between God and Israel. The fatherhood of God denotes care, authority, and a covenantal bond (<a href="/deuteronomy/32-6.htm">Deuteronomy 32:6</a>). It highlights God's role as a protector and provider, reinforcing the idea of Israel as His chosen people. This paternal imagery is echoed in the New Testament, where believers are called children of God (<a href="/romans/8-15.htm">Romans 8:15-16</a>).and Ephraim is My firstborn. Ephraim, representing the Northern Kingdom of Israel, is called the firstborn, a title of honor and preeminence (<a href="/genesis/48-13.htm">Genesis 48:13-20</a>). This designation signifies God's special favor and the restoration of a broken relationship. Despite Ephraim's past rebellion, God reaffirms His commitment to them. The concept of the firstborn also foreshadows Christ, the firstborn over all creation (<a href="/colossians/1-15.htm">Colossians 1:15</a>), who embodies the ultimate fulfillment of God's promises.<div class="vheading2">Persons / Places / Events</div>1. <a href="/topical/j/jeremiah.htm">Jeremiah</a> A major prophet in the Old Testament, known for his prophecies concerning the judgment and restoration of Israel. 2. <a href="/topical/i/israel.htm">Israel</a> The nation chosen by God, often representing the collective people of God in the Old Testament. 3. <a href="/topical/e/ephraim.htm">Ephraim</a> One of the tribes of Israel, often used to represent the Northern Kingdom of Israel. 4. <a href="/topical/s/streams_of_waters.htm">Streams of Waters</a> Symbolic of God's provision and guidance, representing spiritual refreshment and sustenance. 5. <a href="/topical/l/level_path.htm">Level Path</a> A metaphor for God's guidance and protection, ensuring a safe journey for His people.<div class="vheading2">Teaching Points</div><a href="/topical/g/god's_compassionate_guidance.htm">God's Compassionate Guidance</a> God leads His people with compassion, even when they come with weeping and supplications. This reflects His deep love and care for us, encouraging us to approach Him with our burdens. <a href="/topical/p/provision_and_protection.htm">Provision and Protection</a> The promise of streams of waters and a level path signifies God's provision and protection. We can trust Him to provide for our needs and guide us safely through life's challenges. <a href="/topical/i/identity_and_relationship.htm">Identity and Relationship</a> God identifies Himself as Israel's Father and Ephraim as His firstborn, emphasizing the intimate relationship He desires with His people. We are reminded of our identity as children of God and the privileges that come with it. <a href="/topical/r/repentance_and_restoration.htm">Repentance and Restoration</a> The weeping and supplications indicate a heart of repentance. God responds to genuine repentance with restoration and guidance, offering hope for renewal. <a href="/topical/f/faithful_leadership.htm">Faithful Leadership</a> God's leadership is faithful and trustworthy. As believers, we are called to follow His lead, confident that He will not let us stumble.<div class="vheading2">Lists and Questions</div><a href="/top10/lessons_from_jeremiah_31.htm">Top 10 Lessons from Jeremiah 31</a> <a href="/q/what_does_'firstborn'_mean_biblically.htm">What does "firstborn" mean in the Bible?</a> <a href="/q/who_was_hilkiah_in_the_bible.htm">What does Rachel weeping for her children signify?</a> <a href="/q/what_is_the_tribe_of_ephraim.htm">What is the Tribe of Ephraim?</a> <a href="/q/is_jeremiah_31_15_forced_in_matthew.htm">Does Jeremiah 31:15 ('Rachel weeping for her children') align historically with Matthew's account, or is it a forced connection?</a><a name="commentary" id="commentary"></a><div class="vheading2"><a href="/commentaries/ellicott/jeremiah/31.htm">Ellicott's Commentary for English Readers</a></div>(9) They shall come with weeping . . .--The present version agrees with the Hebrew punctuation, but a slight change would give, They shall come with weeping and with supplications; I will lead them; I will cause them to walk . . . The procession of those whom the prophet sees with his mental eye is that of those who weep tears of sorrow for the past, of joy for the present, and pour out prayers for the future. Of this we have a partial fulfilment in the memorable and touching scene brought before us in <a href="/context/ezra/3-12.htm" title="But many of the priests and Levites and chief of the fathers, who were ancient men, that had seen the first house, when the foundation of this house was laid before their eyes, wept with a loud voice; and many shouted aloud for joy:">Ezra 3:12-13</a>. A hand which they do not see shall lead them by the "rivers of waters," both literally and figuratively. (Comp. <a href="/context/isaiah/35-7.htm" title="And the parched ground shall become a pool, and the thirsty land springs of water: in the habitation of dragons, where each lay, shall be grass with reeds and rushes.">Isaiah 35:7-8</a>; <a href="/isaiah/43-19.htm" title="Behold, I will do a new thing; now it shall spring forth; shall you not know it? I will even make a way in the wilderness, and rivers in the desert.">Isaiah 43:19</a>; <a href="/isaiah/48-21.htm" title="And they thirsted not when he led them through the deserts: he caused the waters to flow out of the rock for them: he split the rock also, and the waters gushed out.">Isaiah 48:21</a>; <a href="/context/isaiah/49-10.htm" title="They shall not hunger nor thirst; neither shall the heat nor sun smite them: for he that has mercy on them shall lead them, even by the springs of water shall he guide them.">Isaiah 49:10-11</a>, for like promises.)Ephraim is my firstborn.--Ephraim stands here, as often elsewhere (e.g., <a href="/hosea/11-3.htm" title="I taught Ephraim also to go, taking them by their arms; but they knew not that I healed them.">Hosea 11:3</a>; <a href="/hosea/11-12.htm" title="Ephraim compasses me about with lies, and the house of Israel with deceit: but Judah yet rules with God, and is faithful with the saints.">Hosea 11:12</a>; <a href="/hosea/13-1.htm" title="When Ephraim spoke trembling, he exalted himself in Israel; but when he offended in Baal, he died.">Hosea 13:1</a>; <a href="/hosea/13-12.htm" title="The iniquity of Ephraim is bound up; his sin is hid.">Hosea 13:12</a>) for the whole northern kingdom of the Ten Tribes, of which it was the most conspicuous member. The term "firstborn" is used, as an echo of <a href="/exodus/4-22.htm" title="And you shall say to Pharaoh, Thus said the LORD, Israel is my son, even my firstborn:">Exodus 4:22</a>, as marking out Ephraim as the object of the special favour of Jehovah, the birthright of Reuben having been transferred to the sons of Joseph (<a href="/1_chronicles/5-1.htm" title="Now the sons of Reuben the firstborn of Israel, (for he was the firstborn; but for as much as he defiled his father's bed, his birthright was given to the sons of Joseph the son of Israel: and the genealogy is not to be reckoned after the birthright.">1Chronicles 5:1</a>). The prominence of Ephraim over the other tribes is conspicuous throughout the whole history (<a href="/context/judges/12-1.htm" title="And the men of Ephraim gathered themselves together, and went northward, and said to Jephthah, Why passed you over to fight against the children of Ammon, and did not call us to go with you? we will burn your house on you with fire.">Judges 12:1-3</a>). The prophet apparently recognised it as taking its place once more in the restored unity of the people, when the king should be of the house of David, Jerusalem the centre of worship, Ephraim the leading tribe. (Comp. the contemporary prophecy of <a href="/ezekiel/37-19.htm" title="Say to them, Thus said the Lord GOD; Behold, I will take the stick of Joseph, which is in the hand of Ephraim, and the tribes of Israel his fellows, and will put them with him, even with the stick of Judah, and make them one stick, and they shall be one in my hand.">Ezekiel 37:19</a>.) It is not without interest to note how the northern prophet looks to Judah as more faithful than Ephraim (<a href="/hosea/11-12.htm" title="Ephraim compasses me about with lies, and the house of Israel with deceit: but Judah yet rules with God, and is faithful with the saints.">Hosea 11:12</a>), while Jeremiah turns from the sins of the princes and priests of Judah to look with hope on the remnant of Israel. . . . <div class="vheading2"><a href="/commentaries/pulpit/jeremiah/31.htm">Pulpit Commentary</a></div>Verse 9. - With weeping; i.e. with a joy dashed with sorrow at the thought of the sin which has rendered such an interposition necessary (comp. <a href="/jeremiah/31-18.htm">Jeremiah 31:18</a>). Cause them to walk by the rivers of waters. The reference here is primarily to the homeward journey of the exiles, which shall be free from the trials of the first Exodus, but not exclusively (see on next verse). The question arises how this prediction is to be reconciled with facts. For, as Kimchi has remarked, we find no reference to miracles performed for the Jews who returned from Babylon. A twofold reply seems admissible. We may say either that to those who enjoy a vivid sense of the favour and protection of God no trial is grievous, no circumstances exclude an undercurrent of joy (comp. <a href="/psalms/23.htm">Psalm 23</a>.); or that the prophecy is still waiting for its complete fulfilment, Israel having still a great future reserved for it upon its recognition of the true Messiah. In a straight way; or, in an even way, i.e. one free from hindrances. Comp. Ezra's prayer (<a href="/ezra/8-21.htm">Ezra 8:21</a>), and <a href="/psalms/107-7.htm">Psalm 107:7</a>, in both of which passages "right" should probably be "even." Ephraim is my firstborn. It is doubted whether this simply means that Ephraim (i.e. North Israel) shall be in no respect inferior to Judah - a strong form of expression being chosen, on account of the longer continuance of Ephraim's captivity; or whether it implies a restoration to the tribes of Joseph of the prerogative conferred upon the sons of Joseph (<a href="/1_chronicles/5-1.htm">1 Chronicles 5:1, 2</a>; comp. <a href="/genesis/48-15.htm">Genesis 48:15</a>). The former view seems hardly consistent with the dignity of a prophetic writer. "Forms of expression," i.e. rhetorical phrases, may be admitted in poetical passages, but hardly in solemn prophetic revelations. It was true that Judah had "prevailed above his brethren;" but the original "gift of God" to Ephraim was "without repentance." With regard to the fulfilment of this prediction, we must remember that the remnant of the northern tribes whose faith was strong enough to induce them to profit by the edict of Cyrus, was smaller than that of the southern. Hence the outward signs of God's favour to Ephraim could not be so great as they would have been had the moral conditions of the fulfilment of the promise been more fully complied with. <a href="/commentaries/jeremiah/31-9.htm">Parallel Commentaries ...</a> <a name="lexicon" id="lexicon"></a><div class="vheading">Hebrew</div>They will come יָבֹ֗אוּ (yā·ḇō·’ū) Verb - Qal - Imperfect - third person masculine plural <a href="/hebrew/strongs_935.htm">Strong's 935: </a> To come in, come, go in, go with weeping, בִּבְכִ֣י (biḇ·ḵî) Preposition-b | Noun - masculine singular <a href="/hebrew/strongs_1065.htm">Strong's 1065: </a> A weeping, a dripping and by their supplication וּֽבְתַחֲנוּנִים֮ (ū·ḇə·ṯa·ḥă·nū·nîm) Conjunctive waw, Preposition-b | Noun - masculine plural <a href="/hebrew/strongs_8469.htm">Strong's 8469: </a> Supplication for favor I will lead them; אֽוֹבִילֵם֒ (’ō·w·ḇî·lêm) Verb - Hifil - Imperfect - first person common singular | third person masculine plural <a href="/hebrew/strongs_2986.htm">Strong's 2986: </a> To conduct, bear along I will make them walk אֽוֹלִיכֵם֙ (’ō·w·lî·ḵêm) Verb - Hifil - Imperfect - first person common singular | third person masculine plural <a href="/hebrew/strongs_1980.htm">Strong's 1980: </a> To go, come, walk beside אֶל־ (’el-) Preposition <a href="/hebrew/strongs_413.htm">Strong's 413: </a> Near, with, among, to streams נַ֣חֲלֵי (na·ḥă·lê) Noun - masculine plural construct <a href="/hebrew/strongs_5158.htm">Strong's 5158: </a> A stream, a winter torrent, a, valley, a shaft of waters, מַ֔יִם (ma·yim) Noun - masculine plural <a href="/hebrew/strongs_4325.htm">Strong's 4325: </a> Water, juice, urine, semen on a level יָשָׁ֔ר (yā·šār) Adjective - masculine singular <a href="/hebrew/strongs_3477.htm">Strong's 3477: </a> Straight, right path בְּדֶ֣רֶךְ (bə·ḏe·reḵ) Preposition-b | Noun - common singular <a href="/hebrew/strongs_1870.htm">Strong's 1870: </a> A road, a course of life, mode of action where they will not לֹ֥א (lō) Adverb - Negative particle <a href="/hebrew/strongs_3808.htm">Strong's 3808: </a> Not, no stumble. יִכָּשְׁל֖וּ (yik·kā·šə·lū) Verb - Nifal - Imperfect - third person masculine plural <a href="/hebrew/strongs_3782.htm">Strong's 3782: </a> To totter, waver, to falter, stumble, faint, fall For כִּֽי־ (kî-) Conjunction <a href="/hebrew/strongs_3588.htm">Strong's 3588: </a> A relative conjunction I am הָיִ֤יתִי (hā·yî·ṯî) Verb - Qal - Perfect - first person common singular <a href="/hebrew/strongs_1961.htm">Strong's 1961: </a> To fall out, come to pass, become, be Israel’s לְיִשְׂרָאֵל֙ (lə·yiś·rā·’êl) Preposition-l | Noun - proper - masculine singular <a href="/hebrew/strongs_3478.htm">Strong's 3478: </a> Israel -- 'God strives', another name of Jacob and his desc Father, לְאָ֔ב (lə·’āḇ) Preposition-l | Noun - masculine singular <a href="/hebrew/strongs_1.htm">Strong's 1: </a> Father and Ephraim וְאֶפְרַ֖יִם (wə·’ep̄·ra·yim) Conjunctive waw | Noun - proper - masculine singular <a href="/hebrew/strongs_669.htm">Strong's 669: </a> Ephraim -- a son of Joseph, also his descendants and their territory is My firstborn.” בְּכֹ֥רִי (bə·ḵō·rî) Noun - masculine singular construct | first person common singular <a href="/hebrew/strongs_1060.htm">Strong's 1060: </a> Firstborn, chief <div class="vheading">Links</div><a href="/niv/jeremiah/31-9.htm">Jeremiah 31:9 NIV</a> <a href="/nlt/jeremiah/31-9.htm">Jeremiah 31:9 NLT</a> <a href="/esv/jeremiah/31-9.htm">Jeremiah 31:9 ESV</a> <a href="/nasb/jeremiah/31-9.htm">Jeremiah 31:9 NASB</a> <a href="/kjv/jeremiah/31-9.htm">Jeremiah 31:9 KJV</a> <a href="//bibleapps.com/jeremiah/31-9.htm">Jeremiah 31:9 BibleApps.com</a> <a href="//bibliaparalela.com/jeremiah/31-9.htm">Jeremiah 31:9 Biblia Paralela</a> <a href="//holybible.com.cn/jeremiah/31-9.htm">Jeremiah 31:9 Chinese Bible</a> <a href="//saintebible.com/jeremiah/31-9.htm">Jeremiah 31:9 French Bible</a> <a href="/catholic/jeremiah/31-9.htm">Jeremiah 31:9 Catholic Bible</a> <a href="/jeremiah/31-9.htm">OT Prophets: Jeremiah 31:9 They shall come with weeping (Jer.) </a></div></div></td></tr></table></div><div id="left"><a href="/jeremiah/31-8.htm" onmouseover='lft.src="/leftgif.png"' onmouseout='lft.src="/left.png"' title="Jeremiah 31:8"><img src="/left.png" name="lft" border="0" alt="Jeremiah 31:8" /></a></div><div id="right"><a href="/jeremiah/31-10.htm" onmouseover='rght.src="/rightgif.png"' onmouseout='rght.src="/right.png"' title="Jeremiah 31:10"><img src="/right.png" name="rght" border="0" alt="Jeremiah 31:10" /></a></div><div id="botleft"><a href="#" onmouseover='botleft.src="/botleftgif.png"' onmouseout='botleft.src="/botleft.png"' title="Top of Page"><img src="/botleft.png" name="botleft" border="0" alt="Top of Page" /></a></div><div id="botright"><a href="#" onmouseover='botright.src="/botrightgif.png"' onmouseout='botright.src="/botright.png"' title="Top of Page"><img src="/botright.png" name="botright" border="0" alt="Top of Page" /></a></div><div id="bot"><iframe width="100%" height="1500" scrolling="no" src="/botmenubhnew2.htm" frameborder="0"></iframe></div></td></tr></table></div></body></html>