Old Testament
Jeremiah 15:17
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
In this verse, the prophet Jeremiah expresses his feelings of isolation and sorrow.
- Author
- Jeremiah the prophet, with Baruch
- Written
- Around 600 BC
- Genre
- Prophecy
- Original Audience
- Judah before and during the Babylonian exile
I did not sit in the assembly of the mockers, nor did I rejoice; I sat alone because of your hand, for you had filled me with indignation.
I sat not in the assembly of the mockers, nor rejoiced; I sat alone because of thy hand: for thou hast filled me with indignation.
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, the prophet Jeremiah expresses his feelings of isolation and sorrow. He chooses not to join in with those who mock or make light of serious matters, indicating a deep sense of integrity and commitment to God. Instead of participating in the laughter and mockery of others, he feels compelled to be alone, burdened by the weight of God's message and the seriousness of the situation. Jeremiah acknowledges that God has filled him with indignation, suggesting that he is upset about the sin and rebellion of his people. This verse highlights the struggle of a faithful servant who feels the pain of his community's actions and the heavy responsibility of delivering God's truth, even when it leads to loneliness.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Jeremiah 15:17 to your life
This verse encourages us to stand firm in our beliefs, even when it means being alone or facing ridicule. It reminds us to prioritize our integrity and commitment to God over social acceptance, especially in a world that often mocks serious values and truths.
Curated for this public verse page. Jeremiah Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Jeremiah 15:17 mean?
Jeremiah 15:17 expresses the prophet's feelings of isolation as he chooses not to join those who mock serious matters. He feels compelled to be alone due to the weight of God's message and the indignation he feels about the sins of his people.
What is the significance of sitting alone in Jeremiah 15:17?
Sitting alone in Jeremiah 15:17 signifies Jeremiah's commitment to integrity and his refusal to partake in the mockery of others. It highlights the loneliness that can come from standing firm in one's beliefs and the burden of delivering God's truth.
What does 'filled me with indignation' mean in Jeremiah 15:17?
In Jeremiah 15:17, 'filled me with indignation' means that God has instilled a strong sense of anger and concern in Jeremiah regarding the sin and rebellion of his people. This feeling drives Jeremiah to separate himself from those who do not take these matters seriously.
What themes are present in Jeremiah 15:17?
Jeremiah 15:17 presents themes of isolation, integrity, divine indignation, and the prophetic burden. It reflects the struggle of a faithful servant who feels the weight of his community's actions and the seriousness of God's message.

The Book of Jeremiah
Jeremiah 1: The Call of Jeremiah
The words of Jeremiah, son of Hilkiah, a priest from Anathoth in the land of Benjamin, are recorded. The word of the LORD comes to him in the thirteenth year of King Josiah's reign over Judah. It continues to come to him through the reign of King Jehoiakim and until the eleventh year of King Zedekiah, when Jerusalem is carried into captivity. The LORD states that before He formed Jeremiah in the womb, He knew him and ordained him as a prophet to the nations. Jeremiah responds that he cannot speak because he is a child. The LORD commands him not to say he is a child, for he will go where the LORD sends him and speak what the LORD commands.
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