Old Testament
Jeremiah 15:5
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, God expresses a deep sense of sorrow for Jerusalem, highlighting its desolation and abandonment.
- Author
- Jeremiah the prophet, with Baruch
- Written
- Around 600 BC
- Genre
- Prophecy
- Original Audience
- Judah before and during the Babylonian exile
Who will have pity on you, O Jerusalem? Who will bemoan you? Who will turn aside to ask how you are doing?
For who shall have pity upon thee, O Jerusalem? or who shall bemoan thee? or who shall go aside to ask how thou doest?
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, God expresses a deep sense of sorrow for Jerusalem, highlighting its desolation and abandonment. The rhetorical questions emphasize that no one seems to care about the city's plight or its suffering. Jerusalem, once a thriving center of worship and community, is now left in ruins, and the lack of concern from others reflects the severity of its situation. This verse serves as a poignant reminder of the consequences of turning away from God and the resulting isolation that can occur. It illustrates the emotional weight of loss and the longing for compassion and support in times of distress. The absence of pity or inquiry from others signifies a profound spiritual and social crisis, urging the reader to reflect on the importance of community and empathy in times of hardship. Ultimately, it calls for awareness of those who suffer and the need for collective responsibility in caring for one another.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Jeremiah 15:5 to your life
This verse challenges us to be aware of those around us who may be suffering or in need. It encourages us to reach out, offer support, and show compassion to others, especially during difficult times. By doing so, we can foster a sense of community and help alleviate the burdens of those who feel isolated.
Curated for this public verse page. Jeremiah Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Jeremiah 15:5 mean?
Jeremiah 15:5 expresses God's sorrow for Jerusalem, highlighting its desolation and abandonment. The rhetorical questions show that no one seems to care about the city's suffering, emphasizing the emotional weight of loss and the need for compassion.
What is the significance of Jerusalem in Jeremiah 15:5?
In Jeremiah 15:5, Jerusalem symbolizes a once-thriving community that has fallen into ruin. The verse reflects the consequences of turning away from God and the resulting isolation and neglect experienced by the city.
What themes are present in Jeremiah 15:5?
Jeremiah 15:5 includes themes of desolation, abandonment, compassion, and community. It highlights the spiritual crisis faced by Jerusalem and the importance of empathy during times of hardship.
How can we apply Jeremiah 15:5 to our lives today?
Jeremiah 15:5 encourages us to be aware of those suffering around us and to offer support and compassion. By reaching out to others in need, we can help build a stronger sense of community.

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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