Old Testament
Jeremiah 2:34
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 accuses the people of Judah of being complicit in the deaths of innocent individuals, particularly the poor.
- Author
- Jeremiah the prophet, with Baruch
- Written
- Around 600 BC
- Genre
- Prophecy
- Original Audience
- Judah before and during the Babylonian exile
The blood of the souls of the poor innocents is found on your clothes. I have not discovered it through secret investigation, but it is evident on all these.
Also in thy skirts is found the blood of the souls of the poor innocents: I have not found it by secret search, but upon all these.
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, God accuses the people of Judah of being complicit in the deaths of innocent individuals, particularly the poor. The imagery of blood on their skirts symbolizes guilt and responsibility for these injustices. God emphasizes that this wrongdoing is not hidden or secret; it is clear and visible to all. The phrase 'blood of the souls of the poor innocents' highlights the severity of their actions, indicating that they have harmed those who are vulnerable and defenseless. This accusation serves as a reminder of the moral obligation to protect the innocent and the consequences of failing to do so. The verse reflects God's concern for justice and the plight of the marginalized, urging the people to recognize their sins and the impact of their actions on society. Explore related purity.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Jeremiah 2:34 to your life
This verse challenges us to examine our own actions and their impact on the vulnerable in our communities. We must strive to protect the innocent and speak out against injustices. It serves as a reminder that our choices have consequences, and we are called to act with integrity and compassion.
Curated for this public verse page. Jeremiah Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Jeremiah 2:34 mean?
Jeremiah 2:34 means that God is accusing the people of Judah of being guilty of the deaths of innocent individuals, particularly the poor. The imagery of blood on their skirts symbolizes their responsibility for these injustices, which are clear and visible to all.
What is the significance of 'blood of the souls of the poor innocents' in Jeremiah 2:34?
The phrase 'blood of the souls of the poor innocents' signifies the severity of the people's actions against vulnerable individuals. It highlights their moral failure to protect those who are defenseless and emphasizes the consequences of their wrongdoing.
How does Jeremiah 2:34 relate to social justice?
Jeremiah 2:34 relates to social justice by highlighting the need to protect the innocent and hold individuals accountable for their actions. It calls attention to the consequences of failing to act against injustices in society.
What lessons can we learn from Jeremiah 2:34?
From Jeremiah 2:34, we learn the importance of examining our actions and their impact on vulnerable people. It reminds us to act with integrity and compassion, recognizing that our choices can have significant consequences for others.

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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