Old Testament
Jeremiah 21:13
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I am against you, you who sit in the valley, on the rock above the plain,' declares the LORD. 'You say, "Who could possibly attack us? Who could break into our stronghold?"
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Behold, I am against thee, O inhabitant of the valley, and rock of the plain, saith the LORD; which say, Who shall come down against us? or who shall enter into our habitations?
What Jeremiah 21:13 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, God is addressing the inhabitants of a valley who feel secure in their stronghold, believing that no one can defeat them. The imagery of the valley and rock suggests a fortified position, yet God declares that He is against them. Their confidence in their defenses leads them to question who could possibly attack them. This reflects a false sense of security, as they underestimate God's power and the impending judgment He has declared. The verse serves as a warning that reliance on physical strength and fortifications can lead to complacency and a lack of awareness of spiritual realities. God’s declaration emphasizes that no stronghold can withstand His will, and it challenges the people to reconsider their trust and security apart from Him.
How to apply Jeremiah 21:13 to your life
This verse reminds us not to place our trust in our own strength or resources. We should recognize that true security comes from God alone. In times of confidence, we must remain humble and aware of our dependence on Him, seeking His guidance and protection in all aspects of life.
Curated for this public verse page. Jeremiah Summary
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Keep studying Jeremiah 21:13
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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 21:13 mean?
Jeremiah 21:13 means that God is warning the inhabitants of a fortified valley that their sense of security is misplaced. They believe they are safe from attack, but God declares that He is against them, highlighting the futility of relying solely on physical defenses.
What is the significance of the valley and rock in Jeremiah 21:13?
The valley and rock in Jeremiah 21:13 symbolize a stronghold where the people feel secure. This imagery illustrates their false confidence in their defenses, which God challenges by asserting His power over their situation.
What does God mean by saying He is against the inhabitants in Jeremiah 21:13?
When God says He is against the inhabitants in Jeremiah 21:13, it signifies His impending judgment and disapproval of their arrogance and false security. It serves as a reminder that no one can withstand God's will.
How does Jeremiah 21:13 relate to the theme of false security?
Jeremiah 21:13 relates to false security by showing how the inhabitants mistakenly believe they are invulnerable due to their stronghold. This verse warns that relying on human strength can lead to complacency and a lack of awareness of spiritual truths.
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