Old Testament
Jeremiah 18:13
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Therefore, this is what the LORD says: Ask among the nations, who has heard such things? The virgin of Israel has done a very horrible thing.
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Therefore thus saith the LORD; Ask ye now among the heathen, who hath heard such things: the virgin of Israel hath done a very horrible thing.
What Jeremiah 18:13 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, God is expressing His astonishment at the actions of Israel, referred to as the 'virgin of Israel.' The term 'virgin' symbolizes purity and faithfulness, highlighting the gravity of their betrayal. God calls upon the nations to witness this shocking behavior, suggesting that such unfaithfulness is unprecedented. The 'horrible thing' refers to Israel's turning away from God and engaging in idolatry and sin, which is seen as a deep violation of their covenant relationship with Him. This verse serves as a wake-up call, emphasizing the seriousness of Israel's actions and the consequences that follow. It illustrates God's desire for His people to remain faithful and the heartbreak He feels when they stray. The rhetorical question posed to the nations underscores the uniqueness of Israel's sin, making it clear that their actions are not just a personal failure but a public scandal that affects their identity as God's chosen people.
How to apply Jeremiah 18:13 to your life
This verse reminds us of the importance of faithfulness in our relationship with God. Just as Israel faced consequences for their unfaithfulness, we too must examine our lives for areas where we may be straying from our commitments. Staying true to our values and beliefs is crucial.
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 18:13 mean?
Jeremiah 18:13 expresses God's shock at Israel's unfaithfulness, referring to them as the 'virgin of Israel' to highlight their betrayal. It emphasizes the seriousness of their actions, which involve turning away from God and engaging in idolatry.
What is the significance of 'the virgin of Israel' in Jeremiah 18:13?
In Jeremiah 18:13, 'the virgin of Israel' symbolizes purity and faithfulness, making their betrayal even more serious. This term underscores the gravity of Israel's actions as they turn away from their covenant with God.
What does the 'horrible thing' refer to in Jeremiah 18:13?
The 'horrible thing' in Jeremiah 18:13 refers to Israel's turning away from God and engaging in idolatry. It signifies a deep violation of their covenant relationship with God and highlights the consequences of their unfaithfulness.
Why does God call upon the nations in Jeremiah 18:13?
God calls upon the nations in Jeremiah 18:13 to witness Israel's shocking behavior, suggesting that their unfaithfulness is unprecedented. This rhetorical question emphasizes that Israel's actions are not just a personal failure but a public scandal.
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