Old Testament
Jeremiah 14:2
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Judah mourns, and its gates languish; they are darkened to the ground, and the cry of Jerusalem has gone up.
Compare translations
Judah mourneth, and the gates thereof languish; they are black unto the ground; and the cry of Jerusalem is gone up.
What Jeremiah 14:2 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, the prophet Jeremiah describes the deep sorrow and despair of Judah, a region that is suffering greatly. The term 'mourns' indicates a profound grief, likely due to the consequences of sin and the resulting judgment from God. The 'gates' of the city, which symbolize its strength and security, are described as languishing or weakening, suggesting that the city is in a state of decline. The phrase 'darkened to the ground' conveys a sense of hopelessness and despair, as if the very essence of the city is being diminished. The 'cry of Jerusalem' rising up indicates that the people are in distress, calling out for help in their suffering. This verse captures the emotional and physical devastation experienced by the people, highlighting the seriousness of their situation and the need for repentance and restoration.
How to apply Jeremiah 14:2 to your life
This verse reminds us of the consequences of turning away from God and the importance of seeking His guidance. In times of personal or communal distress, we should acknowledge our struggles and cry out to God for help, trusting in His ability to restore and heal our brokenness.
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 14:2 mean for Judah?
Jeremiah 14:2 reflects the profound grief and despair of Judah during a time of crisis. The verse illustrates how the region is suffering due to sin and divine judgment, with the gates of the city symbolizing its weakened state. This imagery conveys a sense of hopelessness, emphasizing the need for the people to recognize their plight and seek repentance.
How can we apply Jeremiah 14:2 to our lives today?
This verse serves as a reminder of the consequences of turning away from God. In our own lives, we may experience distress and despair when we stray from His guidance. It encourages us to acknowledge our struggles, cry out to God for help, and trust in His power to restore us, both individually and as a community.
What does the 'cry of Jerusalem' signify in this verse?
The 'cry of Jerusalem' in Jeremiah 14:2 signifies the deep distress and desperation of the people. It represents their plea for help amidst suffering and serves as a call for divine intervention. This cry highlights the emotional turmoil experienced by the inhabitants and their recognition of the need for God's mercy and restoration.
What themes are present in Jeremiah 14:2?
Jeremiah 14:2 encompasses several key themes, including grief, despair, judgment, and the need for repentance. It also touches on the hope for divine intervention and restoration. These themes resonate with the human experience of suffering and the importance of turning back to God in times of trouble.
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