Jeremiah 20:13
New International Version
Sing to the LORD! Give praise to the LORD! He rescues the life of the needy from the hands of the wicked.

New Living Translation
Sing to the LORD! Praise the LORD! For though I was poor and needy, he rescued me from my oppressors.

English Standard Version
Sing to the LORD; praise the LORD! For he has delivered the life of the needy from the hand of evildoers.

Berean Standard Bible
Sing to the LORD! Praise the LORD! For He rescues the life of the needy from the hands of evildoers.

Berean Literal Bible
Sing to YHWH! Praise YHWH! For He has delivered the soul of the needy from the hand of evildoers.

King James Bible
Sing unto the LORD, praise ye the LORD: for he hath delivered the soul of the poor from the hand of evildoers.

New King James Version
Sing to the LORD! Praise the LORD! For He has delivered the life of the poor From the hand of evildoers.

New American Standard Bible
Sing to the LORD, praise the LORD! For He has saved the soul of the needy one From the hand of evildoers.

NASB 1995
Sing to the LORD, praise the LORD! For He has delivered the soul of the needy one From the hand of evildoers.

NASB 1977
Sing to the LORD, praise the LORD! For He has delivered the soul of the needy one From the hand of evildoers.

Legacy Standard Bible
Sing to Yahweh, praise Yahweh! For He has delivered the soul of the needy one From the hand of evildoers.

Amplified Bible
Sing to the LORD! Praise the LORD! For He has rescued the life of the needy one From the hand of evildoers.

Berean Annotated Bible
Sing to the LORD {YHWH}! Praise the LORD! For He rescues the life of the needy from the hands of evildoers.

Christian Standard Bible
Sing to the LORD! Praise the LORD, for he rescues the life of the needy from evil people.

Holman Christian Standard Bible
Sing to the LORD! Praise the LORD, for He rescues the life of the needy from the hand of evil people.

American Standard Version
Sing unto Jehovah, praise ye Jehovah; for he hath delivered the soul of the needy from the hand of evil-doers.

Contemporary English Version
I sing praises to you, LORD. You rescue the oppressed from the wicked.

English Revised Version
Sing unto the LORD, praise ye the LORD: for he hath delivered the soul of the needy from the hand of evil-doers.

GOD'S WORD® Translation
Sing to the LORD! Praise the LORD! He has rescued the lives of needy people from the power of wicked people.

Good News Translation
Sing to the LORD! Praise the LORD! He rescues the oppressed from the power of evil people.

International Standard Version
Sing to the LORD, give praise to the LORD! For he saves the life of the poor from the hand of the wicked.

NET Bible
Sing to the LORD! Praise the LORD! For he rescues the oppressed from the clutches of evildoers.

New Heart English Bible
Sing to the LORD, praise the LORD; for he has delivered the soul of the needy from the hand of evildoers.

Webster's Bible Translation
Sing to the LORD, praise ye the LORD: for he hath delivered the soul of the poor from the hand of evil-doers.
Majority Text Translations
Majority Standard Bible
Sing to the LORD! Praise the LORD! For He rescues the life of the needy from the hands of evildoers.

World English Bible
Sing to Yahweh! Praise Yahweh, for he has delivered the soul of the needy from the hand of evildoers.
Literal Translations
Literal Standard Version
Sing to YHWH, praise YHWH, "" For He has delivered the soul of the needy "" From the hand of evildoers.

Berean Literal Bible
Sing to YHWH! Praise YHWH! For He has delivered the soul of the needy from the hand of evildoers.

Young's Literal Translation
Sing ye to Jehovah, praise Jehovah, For He hath delivered the soul of the needy From the hand of evil doers.

Smith's Literal Translation
Sing ye to Jehovah, praise ye Jehovah: for he delivered the soul of the needy from the hand of those doing evil.
Catholic Translations
Douay-Rheims Bible
Sing ye to the Lord, praise the Lord: because he hath delivered the soul of the poor out of the hand of the wicked.

Catholic Public Domain Version
Sing to the Lord! Praise the Lord! For he has freed the soul of the poor from the hand of the wicked.

New American Bible
Sing to the LORD, praise the LORD, For he has rescued the life of the poor from the power of the evildoers!

New Revised Standard Version
Sing to the LORD; praise the LORD! For he has delivered the life of the needy from the hands of evildoers.
Translations from Aramaic
Lamsa Bible
Sing to the LORD; praise the LORD; for he has delivered the life of the poor from the hand of evildoers.

Peshitta Holy Bible Translated
Praise LORD JEHOVAH! Praise LORD JEHOVAH who has saved the soul of the poor from the hand of the evil doers!
OT Translations
JPS Tanakh 1917
Sing unto the LORD, Praise ye the LORD; For He hath delivered the soul of the needy From the hand of evil-doers.

Brenton Septuagint Translation
Sing ye to the Lord, sing praise to him: for he has rescued the soul of the poor from the hand of evil-doers.

Additional Translations ...
Audio Bible



Context
Jeremiah's Complaint
12O LORD of Hosts, who examines the righteous, who sees the heart and mind, let me see Your vengeance upon them, for to You I have committed my cause. 13Sing to the LORD! Praise the LORD! For He rescues the life of the needy from the hands of evildoers. 14Cursed be the day I was born! May the day my mother bore me never be blessed.…

Cross References
Sing to the LORD!

Psalm 95:1
Come, let us sing for joy to the LORD; let us shout to the Rock of our salvation!

Psalm 96:1
Sing to the LORD a new song; sing to the LORD, all the earth.

Psalm 98:1
A Psalm. Sing to the LORD a new song, for He has done wonders; His right hand and holy arm have gained Him the victory.
Praise the LORD!

Psalm 146:1
Hallelujah! Praise the LORD, O my soul.

Psalm 113:1
Hallelujah! Give praise, O servants of the LORD; praise the name of the LORD.

Psalm 150:6
Let everything that has breath praise the LORD! Hallelujah!
For He rescues the life of the needy

Psalm 72:13-14
He will take pity on the poor and needy and save the lives of the oppressed. / He will redeem them from oppression and violence, for their blood is precious in his sight.

Psalm 82:4
Rescue the weak and needy; save them from the hand of the wicked.

Psalm 12:5
“For the cause of the oppressed and for the groaning of the needy, I will now arise,” says the LORD. “I will bring safety to him who yearns.”
from the hands of evildoers.

Psalm 140:4
Guard me, O LORD, from the hands of the wicked. Keep me safe from men of violence who scheme to make me stumble.

Psalm 71:4
Deliver me, O my God, from the hand of the wicked, from the grasp of the unjust and ruthless.

Psalm 31:15
My times are in Your hands; deliver me from my enemies and from those who pursue me.
Psalm 109:30-31
With my mouth I will thank the LORD profusely; I will praise Him in the presence of many. / For He stands at the right hand of the needy one, to save him from the condemners of his soul.

Psalm 18:48-49
who delivers me from my enemies. You exalt me above my foes; You rescue me from violent men. / Therefore I will praise You, O LORD, among the nations; I will sing praises to Your name.

Psalm 35:9-10
Then my soul will rejoice in the LORD and exult in His salvation. / All my bones will exclaim, “Who is like You, O LORD, who delivers the afflicted from the aggressor, the poor and needy from the robber?”

Psalm 40:1-3
For the choirmaster. A Psalm of David. I waited patiently for the LORD; He inclined to me and heard my cry. / He lifted me up from the pit of despair, out of the miry clay; He set my feet upon a rock, and made my footsteps firm. / He put a new song in my mouth, a hymn of praise to our God. Many will see and fear and put their trust in the LORD.


Treasury of Scripture

Sing to the LORD, praise you the LORD: for he has delivered the soul of the poor from the hand of evildoers.

for.

Psalm 34:6
This poor man cried, and the LORD heard him, and saved him out of all his troubles.

Psalm 35:9-11
And my soul shall be joyful in the LORD: it shall rejoice in his salvation…

Psalm 69:33
For the LORD heareth the poor, and despiseth not his prisoners.

Jump to Previous
Delivered Doers Evil Evildoers Evil-Doers Free Hand Hands Life Melody Needy Poor Praise Rescues Sing Soul Wicked
Jump to Next
Delivered Doers Evil Evildoers Evil-Doers Free Hand Hands Life Melody Needy Poor Praise Rescues Sing Soul Wicked
Jeremiah 20
1. Pashur, smiting Jeremiah, receives a new name, and a fearful doom.
7. Jeremiah complains of contempt;
10. of treachery;
14. and of his birth.












Sing to the LORD!
This phrase is a call to worship and an expression of joy and gratitude. In the context of Jeremiah, it is significant because it comes amidst a chapter filled with lament and personal struggle. Singing to the LORD is a common biblical exhortation, seen in passages like Psalm 96:1 and Ephesians 5:19, emphasizing the importance of worship in both personal and communal settings. It reflects a heart that acknowledges God's sovereignty and goodness, even in difficult circumstances.

Praise the LORD!
Praising the LORD is an act of acknowledging His attributes and deeds. In the Hebrew tradition, praise is often linked with thanksgiving and is a response to God's intervention and faithfulness. This phrase is a reminder of the importance of maintaining a posture of praise, as seen in Psalm 150, regardless of one's situation. It underscores the belief that God is worthy of praise at all times, a theme echoed throughout the Psalms and the New Testament.

For He rescues the life of the needy
This part of the verse highlights God's character as a deliverer and protector of the vulnerable. The "needy" often refers to those who are poor, oppressed, or in distress. This theme is prevalent throughout the Old Testament, as seen in passages like Psalm 72:12-14 and Isaiah 41:17, where God is depicted as a defender of the marginalized. It reflects the biblical principle that God is just and compassionate, caring for those who cannot defend themselves.

from the hands of evildoers.
The "hands of evildoers" represents the power and influence of those who perpetrate injustice and harm. In Jeremiah's time, this could refer to corrupt leaders, foreign oppressors, or personal adversaries. The deliverance from such hands is a recurring theme in the Bible, as seen in stories like that of David and Goliath (1 Samuel 17) and Daniel in the lions' den (Daniel 6). It points to God's ability to protect and vindicate His people, foreshadowing the ultimate deliverance through Jesus Christ, who rescues humanity from the power of sin and evil.

Persons / Places / Events
1. Jeremiah
A prophet called by God to deliver messages of judgment and hope to the people of Judah. Known for his perseverance amidst persecution.

2. The LORD (Yahweh)
The covenant-keeping God of Israel, who is both just and merciful. He is the one who rescues and delivers His people.

3. The Needy
Represents those who are oppressed, marginalized, or in distress. In this context, it can refer to Jeremiah himself or the faithful remnant of Israel.

4. Evildoers
Those who oppose God's will and persecute His people. In Jeremiah's time, this included corrupt leaders and false prophets.

5. Judah
The southern kingdom of Israel, where Jeremiah prophesied. It was a time of political turmoil and spiritual decline.
Teaching Points
Praise in Persecution
Even in the midst of trials, believers are called to praise God. Jeremiah's example shows that worship is an act of faith and trust in God's deliverance.

God as Rescuer
The LORD is portrayed as a rescuer of the needy. This highlights His compassion and justice, encouraging believers to trust in His timing and methods of deliverance.

The Power of Worship
Worship can shift our focus from our circumstances to God's sovereignty and faithfulness. It is a powerful tool for spiritual resilience.

Trust in God's Justice
While evildoers may seem to prevail temporarily, God's justice will ultimately prevail. Believers are encouraged to remain steadfast and not lose heart.

Community Support
The call to praise is often communal. Believers should support one another in worship and prayer, especially during times of hardship.
Bible Study Questions and Answers
1. What is the meaning of Jeremiah 20:13?

2. How can we "sing to the LORD" in our daily challenges?

3. What does Jeremiah 20:13 teach about God's deliverance from the wicked?

4. How does Jeremiah 20:13 connect with other scriptures about God's salvation?

5. In what ways can we praise God for His justice today?

6. How can Jeremiah's trust in God inspire our faith during persecution?

7. How does Jeremiah 20:13 reflect God's deliverance in times of persecution?

8. What historical context influenced Jeremiah's proclamation in Jeremiah 20:13?

9. How does Jeremiah 20:13 align with the theme of divine justice?

10. What are the top 10 Lessons from Jeremiah 20?

11. What are the main themes of the Bible's books?

12. How can Jeremiah 20:7 be reconciled with James 1:13, which states that God never tempts or deceives anyone?

13. Jeremiah 11:18-23: How do these threats on Jeremiah's life align with the idea of divine protection for those who follow God's will?

14. How do we reconcile Zophar's rigid cause-and-effect theology in Job 20 with other biblical passages (like Psalm 73) that acknowledge the prosperity of the wicked without immediate judgment?
What Does Jeremiah 20:13 Mean
Sing to the LORD!

• Jeremiah bursts out with, “Sing to the LORD!” (Jeremiah 20:13).

• Singing is more than melody—it is an act of faith. In the midst of opposition (Jeremiah 20:2), Jeremiah chooses worship over despair.

• Cross references: Psalm 96:1 urges, “Sing to the LORD a new song,” even as Psalm 42:8 shows God giving songs “in the night.” Paul and Silas illustrate this in Acts 16:25, singing while jailed.

• Application: When circumstances squeeze us, choosing to sing declares that our God is greater than our situation.


Praise the LORD!

• The prophet repeats himself: “Praise the LORD!” Repetition deepens conviction; praise is deliberate, not automatic.

• Cross references: Psalm 150:6 commands, “Let everything that has breath praise the LORD.” Hebrews 13:15 calls praise a “sacrifice” offered continually.

• By praising, Jeremiah shifts the focus from his pain (Jeremiah 20:7–9) to God’s character—unchanging, holy, and worthy.

• Practical insight: Praise realigns our hearts, turning our eyes from the problem to the Person who holds the solution.


For He rescues the life of the needy

• The “for” gives the reason our praise is justified: “He rescues the life of the needy.”

• God’s track record: Psalm 72:12–13 promises He “delivers the needy who cry out.” Luke 4:18 shows Jesus proclaiming freedom to captives, fulfilling Isaiah’s prophecy.

• Jeremiah himself embodies “the needy”—isolated, beaten, mocked—yet he trusts the Lord’s rescuing nature (Jeremiah 1:8).

• Takeaway: Regardless of status or strength, we qualify for God’s rescue simply by being needy and calling on Him (Romans 10:13).


from the hands of evildoers.

• The rescue is specific: God delivers “from the hands of evildoers.”

• Cross references: Psalm 140:12 declares the LORD “secures justice for the poor.” 2 Thessalonians 3:2 asks for deliverance “from wicked and evil men.”

• Evil hands are real—Pashhur’s physical stocks (Jeremiah 20:2) symbolize every oppressive force believers face today.

• Assurance: God’s sovereignty limits what evildoers can accomplish (Job 1:10). He turns their schemes into stages for His glory (Genesis 50:20).


summary

Jeremiah 20:13 calls us to erupt in song and praise, even when opposed. We praise because God’s nature is to rescue needy people from real, malicious enemies. Our worship is not escapism; it is confidence that the Lord sees, acts, and ultimately vindicates His servants.

(13) Sing unto the Lord . . .--It was as though heaviness had endured for a night, and joy had come in the morning. As with so many of the Psalms (Psalm 22:22 is, perhaps, the most striking parallel), what began in a cry De profundis ends in a Hallelujah.

Verse 13. - In the confidence of faith Jeremiah sees himself already delivered. He writes in the style of the psalmists, who constantly pass from the language of prayer to that of fruition.

Parallel Commentaries ...


Hebrew
Sing
שִׁ֚ירוּ (·rū)
Verb - Qal - Imperative - masculine plural
Strong's 7891: To sing

to the LORD!
לַֽיהוָ֔ה (Yah·weh)
Preposition-l | Noun - proper - masculine singular
Strong's 3068: LORD -- the proper name of the God of Israel

Praise
הַֽלְל֖וּ (hal·lū)
Verb - Piel - Imperative - masculine plural
Strong's 1984: To shine

the LORD!
יְהוָ֑ה (Yah·weh)
Noun - proper - masculine singular
Strong's 3068: LORD -- the proper name of the God of Israel

For
כִּ֥י (kî)
Conjunction
Strong's 3588: A relative conjunction

He rescues
הִצִּ֛יל (hiṣ·ṣîl)
Verb - Hifil - Perfect - third person masculine singular
Strong's 5337: To strip, plunder, deliver oneself, be delivered, snatch away, deliver

the life
נֶ֥פֶשׁ (ne·p̄eš)
Noun - feminine singular
Strong's 5315: A soul, living being, life, self, person, desire, passion, appetite, emotion

of the needy
אֶבְי֖וֹן (’eḇ·yō·wn)
Adjective - masculine singular
Strong's 34: In want, needy, poor

from the hands
מִיַּ֥ד (mî·yaḏ)
Preposition-m | Noun - feminine singular construct
Strong's 3027: A hand

of evildoers.
מְרֵעִֽים׃ (mə·rê·‘îm)
Verb - Hifil - Participle - masculine plural
Strong's 7489: To spoil, to make, good for, nothing, bad


Links
Jeremiah 20:13 NIV
Jeremiah 20:13 NLT
Jeremiah 20:13 ESV
Jeremiah 20:13 NASB
Jeremiah 20:13 KJV

Jeremiah 20:13 BibleApps.com
Jeremiah 20:13 Biblia Paralela
Jeremiah 20:13 Chinese Bible
Jeremiah 20:13 French Bible
Jeremiah 20:13 Catholic Bible

OT Prophets: Jeremiah 20:13 Sing to Yahweh praise you Yahweh (Jer.)
Jeremiah 20:12
Top of Page
Top of Page