The Anathoth Plot. The abrupt introduction of this account of the plot of the men of Anathoth against the life of the prophet might be explained by the supposition that his advocacy of the Deuteronomic Reformation (Jeremiah 11:1 ff.) would seem treachery to his kinsmen. For, as stated in the Introduction, they may have traced their descent from Abiathar, a priestly line now perpetually set aside in favour of the Zadokite priests of Jerusalem. If, however, Jeremiah's advocacy of Deuteronomy be not accepted as historic, then the Anathoth persecution will be a special instance of the general unpopularity of Jeremiah. Whether it was provoked by some particular utterance like that of Jesus in the synagogue of Nazareth we do not know. Jeremiah says that he was as unconscious of this plot as is a tame (gentle) lamb (cf. 2 Samuel 12:3) of the purpose to kill it. He appeals to the just Judge, who knows his inmost feelings and thoughts, against the injustice of this plot. Yahweh answers the prophet's appeal with a threat of vengeance on the men of Anathoth (see on Jeremiah 1:1).
Jeremiah 11:19. fruit: a slight emendation gives the preferable meaning sap.
Jeremiah 11:20. In Hebrew psychology, the reins or kidneys are the seat of strong emotions, e.g. desires, and the heart is the general centre of psychical activity, including thought. Duhm points out that this is the earliest declaration of Yahweh's knowledge of the inner life. Cornill suggests with considerable plausibility that the following section, Jeremiah 12:1-6, originally preceded Jeremiah 11:18-23.