Jeremiah — Chapter 12
Synopsis: Jeremiah's theodicy — why do the wicked prosper and the just suffer? God's answer: the situation will get worse before it gets better; but ultimately God will restore His garden.
Verse 1
Thou indeed, O Lord, art just, if I plead with thee, but yet I will speak what is just to thee: Why doth the way of the wicked prosper: why is it well with all them that transgress, and do wickedly? The most direct theodicy-question in Jeremiah. Lapide: this question arises naturally from the just soul's love of God and hatred of injustice; asking it is not impious but filial. God's answer (v.5) is not a philosophical resolution but an increase of demand: 'If you have run with footmen and they have tired you, how will you contend with horses?'