The Bible Says
Jeremiah 3:21-23 Meaning

In Jeremiah 3:21-23, the LORD continues his proclamation of Israel's rejection of him: "A voice is heard on the bare heights, the weeping and the supplications of the sons of Israel; Because they have perverted their way, they have forgotten the LORD their God" (v. 21). The prophet Jeremiah pictures the people crying out in desolate places. The phrase “bare heights” refers to elevated, exposed regions within the land of Israel, where idolatrous practices and false worship often occurred. Jeremiah, who lived from around 627 BC until beyond the fall of Jerusalem in 586 BC, addresses a nation that turned away from their covenant. Their tears acknowledge how they have forgotten the one true God. These elevated spots capture the irony that, although they are high up physically, the people have sunk low spiritually. Their weeping echoes the heartbreak Jeremiah himself experienced as a “weeping prophet,” a title reflecting his sorrow over the nation’s moral and spiritual collapse. In this moment, their tears are a confession of guilt and a realization that their estrangement from God has placed them in a desperate situation.

Jeremiah 3:21 also reveals a cry that is heard by the LORD. Repeated scriptural themes illustrate that when people humble themselves and acknowledge their sin, God’s heart is moved (Luke 15:17-20). The weeping symbolizes the first step of return, ultimately pointing to a loving God who stands ready to restore the contrite in spirit.

Next, in Jeremiah 3:22, The LORD calls to His sons and also shows the correct answer with which they should respond: "Return, O faithless sons, I will heal your faithlessness." "Behold, we come to You; For You are the LORD our God" (v. 22) A powerful declaration of God’s grace and willingness to redeem is given. The LORD labels His people “faithless sons,” pointing to their place in as His chosen family despite their deep rebellion. He extends an invitation to return, promising an inner healing that addresses the very roots of their waywardness.

The people should respond with “Behold, we come to You” (v. 22)-an acceptance of the LORD’s open hand. This is a moment of contrition, as they recognize the LORD’s rightful place as the ruler and redeemer of their lives. Such a response foreshadows New Testament calls to repentance, where Christ similarly invites sinners to turn to Him (Matthew 11:28). God’s remedy for faithlessness reveal His nature as a compassionate Father who is not only just but also patient, desiring restoration over punishment. Jeremiah’s message cut across the false security people found in idols and reminded the nation that real healing begins when they return to the LORD with a sincere heart.

Jeremiah 3:23 continues the people's response: "Surely, the hills are a deception, A tumult on the mountains. Surely in the LORD our God Is the salvation of Israel" (v. 23). Jeremiah's writing points out that putting hope in the hills, or the high places where idols were worshiped, is ultimately empty. These sites, which dot the landscape of ancient Israel, stand as symbols of the people’s misguided confidence in pagan practices. The imagery of tumult on the mountains suggests confusion and disorder that result from chasing false gods. In these cultural practices they would cry out with loud voices and cut themselves with weapons. In Elijah's encounter with the Baal worshippers, we see such practices and how they are done with no response (1 Kings 18:28-29).

Israel's confession underscores the reality that only in the true God is salvation found. It is a direct contrast with the emptiness of idol worship, which brought chaos rather than lasting peace. Jeremiah’s passionate plea urges the people to fix their eyes on the eternally sovereign LORD, who alone can deliver them from impending judgment.

Lastly, recognizing the LORD as the sole source of salvation underscores a central biblical truth repeated throughout the Scriptures. In the broader context, it points toward the ultimate redemption through the Messiah, who brings forgiveness and rest for those who place their trust in Him (John 14:6). Jeremiah, serving during a turbulent era in Judah’s history, reminds the people then-and believers now-that turning from deception toward the faithful God is the only path to true deliverance.