Baruch – Chapter 5

Old Testament9 Verses

1Put off, O Jerusalem, the garment of thy mourning, and affliction: and put on the beauty, and honour of that everlasting glory which thou hast from God.

2God will clothe thee with the double garment of justice, and will set a crown on thy head of everlasting honour.

3For God will shew his brightness in thee, to every one under heaven.

4For thy name shall be named to thee by God for ever: the peace of justice, and honour of piety.

5Arise, O Jerusalem, and stand on high: and look about towards the east, and behold thy children gathered together from the rising to the setting sun, by the word of the Holy One rejoicing in the remembrance of God.

6For they went out from thee on foot, led by the enemies: but the Lord will bring them to thee exalted with honour as children of the kingdom.

7For God hath appointed to bring down every high mountain, and the everlasting rocks, and to fill up the valleys to make them even with the ground: that Israel may walk diligently to the honour of God.

8Moreover the woods, and every sweetsmelling tree have overshadowed Israel by the commandment of God.

9For God will bring Israel with joy in the light of his majesty, with mercy, and justice, that cometh from him.

Reflection for Today

Baruch Chapter 5 continues the biblical theme of repentance and hope in exile. According to Catholic teaching, this deuterocanonical book calls to conversion (CIC 1430). This chapter invites us to reflect on Turn back to God with all your heart.

The Church Fathers and saints have meditated on these passages for centuries, finding in them nourishment for the spiritual life. The Catechism teaches that "the Sacred Scriptures contain the Word of God and, because they are inspired, they are truly the Word of God" (CIC 135). As we read this chapter, we join the great Tradition of Catholic biblical interpretation.

Catholic spirituality encourages us to approach Scripture with faith, seeking not merely information but transformation. Through the practice of lectio divina—reading, meditation, prayer, and contemplation—we allow God's Word to penetrate our hearts. May this chapter deepen your love for God and neighbor, and strengthen your commitment to live the Gospel in daily life.

💡Catholic Reflection • Church Teachings

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