Old Testament

Jeremiah 15:18

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 deep anguish over his ongoing suffering and the feeling that his wounds will never heal.

Author
Jeremiah the prophet, with Baruch
Written
Around 600 BC
Genre
Prophecy
Original Audience
Judah before and during the Babylonian exile
CBTClear Bible Translation

Why does my pain never end, and my wound refuse to heal? Will you be to me like a liar, like waters that fail?

KJVKing James Version

Why is my pain perpetual, and my wound incurable, which refuseth to be healed? wilt thou be altogether unto me as a liar, and as waters that fail?

Verse Analysis

Plain-English insight for readers

In this verse, the prophet Jeremiah expresses deep anguish over his ongoing suffering and the feeling that his wounds will never heal. He questions God about the perpetual nature of his pain, comparing God to a liar if He does not provide relief. This reflects a moment of vulnerability and doubt, as Jeremiah grapples with the reality of his circumstances and the seeming absence of divine help. The imagery of 'waters that fail' suggests disappointment and unfulfilled promises, highlighting the struggle between faith and despair. Jeremiah's lament is a raw expression of human emotion, revealing the struggle to reconcile faith in God with the harsh realities of life. It serves as a reminder that even the faithful can experience profound pain and questioning, and that such feelings are part of the human experience in seeking understanding and healing from God.

How to apply Jeremiah 15:18 to your life

When facing persistent pain or struggles, it's important to express our feelings honestly to God, just as Jeremiah did. Acknowledging our doubts and fears can lead to deeper faith and understanding. Seeking support from others can also help us navigate through difficult times.

Curated for this public verse page. Jeremiah Summary

Frequently Asked Questions

Quick, clear answers about this verse

What does Jeremiah 15:18 mean?

Jeremiah 15:18 expresses the prophet's deep anguish over his unending pain and the feeling that his wounds will never heal. He questions God about the nature of his suffering and compares God's lack of relief to a liar, highlighting his struggle with faith amid despair.

What is the significance of 'waters that fail' in Jeremiah 15:18?

The phrase 'waters that fail' in Jeremiah 15:18 symbolizes disappointment and unfulfilled promises. It reflects Jeremiah's feelings of abandonment and the struggle to trust in God's help when faced with ongoing suffering.

How does Jeremiah 15:18 relate to human suffering?

Jeremiah 15:18 relates to human suffering by illustrating the raw emotions of pain, doubt, and the search for healing. It shows that even those with strong faith can experience profound struggles and question God's presence in their suffering.

What themes are present in Jeremiah 15:18?

Themes in Jeremiah 15:18 include suffering, faith, doubt, and the quest for divine help. The verse captures the tension between human emotion and the desire for healing, emphasizing the importance of expressing one's struggles.

The Book of Jeremiah
Book Summary

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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