Old Testament
Jeremiah 15:18
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Why does my pain never end, and my wound refuse to heal? Will you be to me like a liar, like waters that fail?
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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?
What Jeremiah 15:18 means
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
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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 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.
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