Old Testament
Jeremiah 14:17
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
"Say this to them: 'Let my eyes overflow with tears night and day without stopping, because my dear people — like a young daughter — have been shattered by a devastating blow, a terrible wound."
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Therefore thou shalt say this word unto them; Let mine eyes run down with tears night and day, and let them not cease: for the virgin daughter of my people is broken with a great breach, with a very grievous blow.
What Jeremiah 14:17 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, God instructs Jeremiah to express deep sorrow for the suffering of His people. The imagery of tears flowing day and night emphasizes the seriousness of their plight. The 'virgin daughter' symbolizes the innocence and vulnerability of the people, who have been severely harmed by their circumstances. This devastation is likened to a grievous wound, indicating not just physical suffering but also emotional and spiritual pain. The call for unceasing tears reflects the urgency and depth of God's concern for His people, highlighting the need for repentance and healing. Jeremiah's role as a prophet is to convey this message of lament, showing that God cares deeply for His people and their suffering. This verse serves as a poignant reminder of the consequences of turning away from God and the pain that follows, urging a return to faith and restoration.
How to apply Jeremiah 14:17 to your life
This verse encourages us to empathize with those who are suffering and to express our grief for their pain. It reminds us of the importance of prayer and intercession for others, urging us to remain sensitive to the struggles of our community and to seek ways to support and uplift those in need.
Curated for this public verse page. Jeremiah Summary
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Keep studying Jeremiah 14:17
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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 14:17 mean for today's believers?
Jeremiah 14:17 serves as a powerful reminder for today's believers about the importance of empathy and compassion. It encourages us to mourn with those who suffer and to recognize the spiritual and emotional wounds in our communities. This verse calls us to pray fervently for those in distress and to take action to support them, reflecting God's deep concern for His people.
How can I apply the message of Jeremiah 14:17 in my life?
To apply the message of Jeremiah 14:17, start by being attentive to the struggles of those around you. Engage in prayer for those who are hurting, and consider ways you can offer support, whether through listening, volunteering, or providing resources. This verse challenges you to cultivate a heart of compassion and to be proactive in seeking healing and restoration for others.
What does the 'virgin daughter' symbolize in this verse?
In Jeremiah 14:17, the 'virgin daughter' symbolizes the innocence and vulnerability of God's people. This imagery highlights their fragility and the severity of their suffering. It serves to illustrate how deeply affected they are by their circumstances, emphasizing the need for divine compassion and the urgency for repentance and healing.
Why does God want Jeremiah to weep for His people?
God instructs Jeremiah to weep for His people to demonstrate the depth of His compassion and concern for their suffering. This act of mourning signifies the seriousness of their plight and the consequences of their disobedience. It serves as a call for repentance and a reminder that God desires His people to return to Him for healing and restoration.
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