Old Testament
Jeremiah 13:17
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But if you refuse to listen, my soul will weep in secret over your pride; my eyes will weep sore and run down with tears, because the LORD's flock has been carried away captive.
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But if ye will not hear it, my soul shall weep in secret places for your pride; and mine eye shall weep sore, and run down with tears, because the LORD’s flock is carried away captive.
What Jeremiah 13:17 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, God expresses deep sorrow over the pride of His people who refuse to listen to His warnings. The imagery of weeping in secret highlights the profound emotional pain God feels as He sees His people turning away from Him. The mention of the 'LORD's flock' being taken captive signifies the consequences of their disobedience and pride. God cares deeply for His people, and their suffering causes Him great distress. This verse serves as a reminder of the importance of humility and the need to heed God's guidance. When we ignore His words, we not only harm ourselves but also grieve God, who desires a close relationship with us. The tears symbolize the seriousness of the situation and the love God has for His people, urging them to return to Him before it is too late.
How to apply Jeremiah 13:17 to your life
This verse encourages us to listen to God's guidance and remain humble. Ignoring His words can lead to negative consequences, not just for ourselves but also for those around us. We should strive to cultivate a heart that is receptive to God's teachings and aware of our own pride.
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 13:17 mean?
Jeremiah 13:17 expresses God's deep sorrow over the pride of His people who refuse to listen to His warnings. It highlights the emotional pain God feels as He sees them turning away, leading to their suffering and captivity.
What is the significance of 'the LORD's flock' in Jeremiah 13:17?
In Jeremiah 13:17, 'the LORD's flock' refers to God's people, symbolizing their vulnerability and the consequences of their disobedience. Their being taken captive signifies the serious repercussions of ignoring God's guidance.
How does pride relate to Jeremiah 13:17?
Pride in Jeremiah 13:17 is portrayed as a barrier that prevents God's people from listening to Him. This pride leads to their downfall and causes God to weep for their suffering.
What emotions does God express in Jeremiah 13:17?
In Jeremiah 13:17, God expresses profound sorrow and grief over His people's pride and disobedience. The imagery of weeping underscores His deep emotional connection and concern for their well-being.
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