Old Testament

Jeremiah 20:5

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 is declaring that He will allow the enemies of Judah to take everything valuable from the city.

Author
Jeremiah the prophet, with Baruch
Written
Around 600 BC
Genre
Prophecy
Original Audience
Judah before and during the Babylonian exile
CBTClear Bible Translation

I will also hand over all the wealth of this city — everything it has produced, every precious thing, every treasure of Judah's kings — to their enemies. They will seize it all, carry it off, and take it to Babylon.

KJVKing James Version

Moreover I will deliver all the strength of this city, and all the labours thereof, and all the precious things thereof, and all the treasures of the kings of Judah will I give into the hand of their enemies, which shall spoil them, and take them, and carry them to Babylon.

Verse Analysis

Plain-English insight for readers

In this verse, God is declaring that He will allow the enemies of Judah to take everything valuable from the city. This includes not just material wealth, but also the hard work and efforts of the people. The treasures that were once held by the kings of Judah will be handed over to their foes, who will then transport them to Babylon. This reflects a significant moment of judgment against Judah for their disobedience and unfaithfulness to God. The imagery of losing all that is precious serves as a warning about the consequences of turning away from God and the inevitable downfall that follows when a nation strays from its covenant with Him. The mention of Babylon signifies a powerful enemy that will come to claim what was once secure and prosperous, highlighting the seriousness of the situation and the depth of loss that will be experienced by the people of Judah.

How to apply Jeremiah 20:5 to your life

This verse serves as a reminder of the importance of faithfulness to God. It encourages individuals and communities to reflect on their values and priorities, ensuring they align with God's will. Disobedience can lead to significant loss, both spiritually and materially, urging us to remain steadfast in our commitment to Him.

Curated for this public verse page. Jeremiah Summary

Frequently Asked Questions

Quick, clear answers about this verse

What does Jeremiah 20:5 mean?

Jeremiah 20:5 means that God will allow the enemies of Judah to take all the valuable possessions of the city, including the efforts and treasures of its people. This is a declaration of judgment against Judah for their disobedience.

What is the significance of Babylon in Jeremiah 20:5?

Babylon represents a powerful enemy that will conquer Judah and take away its wealth and treasures. The mention of Babylon highlights the seriousness of Judah's situation and the impending loss they will face.

What are the consequences mentioned in Jeremiah 20:5?

The consequences in Jeremiah 20:5 include the loss of all valuable possessions and the labor of the people, as their enemies will seize everything and carry it off to Babylon. This reflects the judgment for Judah's unfaithfulness to God.

How does Jeremiah 20:5 relate to Judah's downfall?

Jeremiah 20:5 relates to Judah's downfall by illustrating the loss of their wealth and security due to their disobedience to God. It serves as a warning about the dire consequences of turning away from God's covenant.

The Book of Jeremiah
Book Summary

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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