The way this passage (Jeremiah 6:16–21) is structured suggests that it may have been part of a mock liturgy
that forms part of a covenant renewal ceremony.1 It begins with the Lord inviting the people to choose which path they will follow. This reminds the reader of the same choice put before Israel in the Lord’s covenant with them (Deuteronomy 30:1–20). The people do not need a new path or a new word from the Lord, they need a return to the covenant already given.2 They need to turn away from the wrong paths they have chosen and return to the Lord. If they not only ask for these ancient paths,
but also walk in them,
then they will find rest for their souls.
Covenant faithfulness leads to the covenant blessing of rest in the land because they are at peace with the Lord.
16 Ainsi parle l'Eternel: Placez-vous sur les chemins, regardez, Et demandez quels sont les anciens sentiers, Quelle est la bonne voie; marchez-y, Et vous trouverez le repos de vos âmes! Mais ils répondent: Nous n'y marcherons pas.