Jeremiah 6:14Meaning & Commentary from the Church Fathers

The purpose of creation reflects the condition of the rulers, who often act as the agents of wrongdoing. This term seems more fitting for those in authority rather than their subordinates. It describes individuals who commit actions that satisfy their own desires, speak words that please them, and mistakenly believe they are healing wounds, while in truth, they are only exacerbating the affliction. But where is true peace found? Instead of a declaration of the absence of peace, the question is posed - where is it? Take note of the complacency that permits neglect of responsibilities. It is now crucial to manifest in our deeds the commitments we profess. I worry that it might be inappropriate to inquire again about the state of peace.

The intention behind the creation of My people is to bring about their humility. The prophet condemns the false prophets and corrupt priests who have misled the people with hollow messages concerning worldly matters and current events. In doing so, they sought to eliminate the fear of impending peril and consequently ridiculed the common folk.

The Lord declares that He will extend His hand against the people dwelling on the earth. From the smallest to the greatest, all are caught in selfishness, and both prophet and priest engage in iniquity. They attempt to mend the brokenness of My people with a false sense of security, proclaiming, ‘Peace, peace!’ when in reality, there is no peace. Rather than the original Hebrew phrase meaning, “I will stretch forth My hand against the sinners,” the Greek translation consistently states, “I will lift up,” both of which imply an act of striking, as it is noted: ‘and yet the hand of the Lord is stretched out’ or ‘lifted up’ (Isaiah 5:25). The inhabitants of the earth perpetually dwell in sin, which is why the Revelation frequently warns, ‘Woe to them that dwell on the earth’ (Rev. 8:13).

In order to bring forth humanity, they bring me shame and declare, ‘Peace, peace.’ Yet He questions, ‘And where is the peace?’ The Prophet indicates that these weaknesses were to be addressed through stricter measures, while the false prophets provoked them with empty assurances of peace. So, where is the realization of those promises? Rather than peace, they are confronted with ultimate ruin. This also highlights their astonishing audacity; even when reproached for their false prophecies, they do not feel embarrassed. Concerning this matter, the prophet declares: