The Epistle of Jeremiah

The Epistle of Jeremiah, one of the shortest extant deutero-canonical writings, offers a strong critique of idolatry, describing it as the worship of impotent and lifeless idols. This article explores the theology of the text, as well as significant aspects of its composition and literary structure, engaging with it as a genuine letter, an example of a well-attested and authoritative form of communication among Diaspora Jews. It highlights in particular the epistle’s pervasive connections with the Jewish scriptures, arguing that, despite its brevity and perceived lack of originality, it offers valuable insights into the exegetical techniques and principles characteristic of the Second Temple period