Old Testament
Jeremiah 10:14
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Every man is brutish in his knowledge; every metalworker is put to shame by his carved image, for his molten image is a lie, and there is no breath in them.
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Every man is brutish in his knowledge: every founder is confounded by the graven image: for his molten image is falsehood, and there is no breath in them.
What Jeremiah 10:14 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, the prophet Jeremiah highlights the foolishness of idol worship. He points out that people lack true understanding and wisdom when they create and worship idols made of metal and stone. These idols, which are crafted by skilled workers, are ultimately lifeless and cannot provide any real help or guidance. The term 'brutish' suggests a lack of discernment, indicating that those who rely on these false images are acting without true knowledge. The verse emphasizes that these idols are not only deceptive but also incapable of possessing life or spirit, making them utterly worthless as objects of worship. Jeremiah's message serves as a warning against placing trust in anything that is not the living God, who alone has the power to give life and truth.
How to apply Jeremiah 10:14 to your life
This verse encourages us to examine what we place our trust in. Are we relying on material things or false beliefs that cannot provide true guidance? Instead, we should seek wisdom from God and focus on a relationship with Him, who is the source of all truth and life.
Curated for this public verse page. Jeremiah Summary
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At a Glance — the Book of Jeremiah
- Author
- Jeremiah the prophet, with Baruch
- Written
- Around 600 BC
- Genre
- Prophecy
- Original Audience
- Judah before and during the Babylonian exile
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Jeremiah 10:14 mean?
Jeremiah 10:14 means that people are foolish when they create and worship idols made of metal and stone. The verse highlights that these idols are lifeless and cannot provide true guidance or help.
What is the significance of 'brutish' in Jeremiah 10:14?
The term 'brutish' in Jeremiah 10:14 indicates a lack of understanding and discernment among those who worship idols. It suggests that relying on these false images reflects a deep ignorance of true knowledge.
What does Jeremiah 10:14 say about idols?
Jeremiah 10:14 states that idols, crafted by skilled workers, are ultimately false and lifeless. The verse emphasizes that these idols cannot possess breath or spirit, making them worthless as objects of worship.
How does Jeremiah 10:14 relate to idolatry?
Jeremiah 10:14 critiques idolatry by showing that those who worship idols lack true wisdom. It warns against placing trust in lifeless objects instead of the living God, who offers genuine truth and guidance.
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