Old Testament
Jeremiah 2:18
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So what do you gain by running to Egypt to drink from the waters of Shihor? And what do you gain by running to Assyria to drink from the Euphrates?
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And now what hast thou to do in the way of Egypt, to drink the waters of Sihor? or what hast thou to do in the way of Assyria, to drink the waters of the river?
What Jeremiah 2:18 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, God questions the people of Israel about their reliance on foreign nations like Egypt and Assyria for help and sustenance. The 'waters of Shihor' and the 'Euphrates' symbolize the resources and support they seek from these nations. God is highlighting the futility of turning to these places for aid instead of trusting in Him. The rhetorical questions emphasize that seeking help from these nations will not provide true benefit or security. Instead, it suggests a lack of faith in God, who is the ultimate source of strength and provision. The verse serves as a reminder that turning away from God to seek help from worldly sources is misguided and ultimately unfulfilling. It calls the people to reflect on their choices and return to reliance on God, who can truly satisfy their needs and protect them.
How to apply Jeremiah 2:18 to your life
This verse encourages us to evaluate where we seek help and support in our lives. Are we relying on worldly solutions or turning to God in faith? It reminds us that true security and fulfillment come from trusting in God rather than seeking temporary relief from external sources.
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 2:18 mean?
Jeremiah 2:18 questions Israel's reliance on foreign nations like Egypt and Assyria for help. It highlights the futility of seeking support from these nations instead of trusting in God, who is the true source of strength and provision.
What is the significance of the waters of Shihor in Jeremiah 2:18?
The waters of Shihor symbolize the resources and support that the people of Israel sought from Egypt. This verse emphasizes that turning to worldly sources for help is misguided and ultimately unfulfilling.
What does the Euphrates represent in Jeremiah 2:18?
In Jeremiah 2:18, the Euphrates represents the aid and security that Israel sought from Assyria. The verse critiques this reliance on foreign powers instead of trusting in God.
How can we apply Jeremiah 2:18 to our lives today?
This verse encourages us to reflect on where we seek help in our lives. It reminds us to turn to God for true fulfillment and security rather than relying on temporary solutions from the world.
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