Jeremiah 31:21 reads: "Set thee up waymarks, make thee high heaps: set thine heart toward the highway, even the way which thou wentest: turn again, O virgin of Israel, turn again to these thy cities."

In this verse, the prophet Jeremiah conveys a message to the people of Israel, urging them to remember their paths and return to their former ways. The imagery of waymarks and high heaps symbolizes guidance and direction, indicating that the people should retrace their steps back to their homeland and faith.

Meaning and Interpretation

Jeremiah 31:21 is steeped in themes of restoration and remembrance. Public domain commentaries suggest several layers of meaning surrounding this verse.

• Waymarks and Guidance: Matthew Henry highlights that waymarks are signposts for travelers, much like God’s guidance for His people. This emphasizes the necessity of acknowledging past journeys and God's leading.
• Call to Return: Albert Barnes underlines the significance of the call to “turn again.” This indicates not just a physical return to cities but a spiritual return to God and His covenant.
• Symbol of Hope: Adam Clarke suggests that the mention of a “virgin of Israel” represents purity and hope in God's promise despite past transgressions.

Cross-References and Thematic Connections

This verse has several connections with other Bible verses that reflect its themes of restoration and the importance of returning to God. Notable cross-references include:

• Isaiah 40:3: “The voice of him that crieth in the wilderness, Prepare ye the way of the Lord…” – This verse echoes the theme of preparing a path for God’s return.
• Hosea 14:1: “O Israel, return unto the Lord thy God; for thou hast fallen by thine iniquity.” – A direct call to returning to the Lord similar to Jeremiah’s plea.
• Luke 15:18: “I will arise and go to my father, and will say unto him, Father, I have sinned against heaven, and before thee.” – This parable illustrates the personal journey of returning to a father, paralleling Israel’s call to return to God.
• Jeremiah 3:12-14: “Go and proclaim these words toward the north, and say, Return, thou backsliding Israel…” – A similar plea from Jeremiah, emphasizing the theme of repentance and return.
• Malachi 3:7: “Even from the days of your fathers ye are gone away from mine ordinances…” – A recognition of Israel’s historical tendency to stray, beseeching them to return.
• Matthew 11:28: “Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.” – This New Testament invitation evokes the call to rest found in a restored relationship with God.
• Hebrews 12:13: “And make straight paths for your feet…” – Encouraging believers to establish a clear path, paralleling the waymarks of Jeremiah 31:21.

Application and Reflection

As believers reflect on Jeremiah 31:21, they are encouraged to examine their own paths and how they align with God’s will. The significance of setting waymarks in our spiritual lives serves as a reminder to remain anchored in faith amidst life’s distractions and challenges.

Tools for Bible Cross-Referencing can aid in further study of this verse, allowing individuals to explore its connections more deeply. Resources such as a Bible concordance or a Bible cross-reference guide can facilitate this process. Understanding how to utilize these tools can deepen one's comprehension of scripture and enhance personal study methods.

Conclusion

Jeremiah 31:21 is a powerful reminder of the importance of remembering God's past guidance as we navigate our present paths. By cross-referencing with related Bible verses, we can deepen our understanding of its message and its relevance in our lives today.