Old Testament
Jeremiah 21:7
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Afterward, declares the LORD, I will deliver King Zedekiah of Judah, his servants, and the people who survive the plague, the sword, and the famine in this city into the hand of Nebuchadrezzar king of Babylon, and into the hand of their enemies, and those who seek their lives. He will strike them down with the sword; he will not spare them, nor have pity, nor show mercy.
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And afterward, saith the LORD, I will deliver Zedekiah king of Judah, and his servants, and the people, and such as are left in this city from the pestilence, from the sword, and from the famine, into the hand of Nebuchadrezzar king of Babylon, and into the hand of their enemies, and into the hand of those that seek their life: and he shall smite them with the edge of the sword; he shall not spare them, neither have pity, nor have mercy.
What Jeremiah 21:7 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, God communicates a dire message to the people of Judah through the prophet Jeremiah. He declares that after a period of suffering, including plague, war, and famine, King Zedekiah and those who remain in Jerusalem will be handed over to Nebuchadnezzar, the king of Babylon. This signifies a complete defeat and judgment against Judah for their disobedience. The verse emphasizes that Nebuchadnezzar will not show mercy; he will kill those who oppose him without pity. This serves as a warning about the consequences of turning away from God and the seriousness of their situation. The imagery of the sword highlights the violence and destruction that will come as a result of their actions. It reflects God's sovereignty in allowing judgment to come through foreign powers as a means of discipline for His people.
How to apply Jeremiah 21:7 to your life
This verse reminds us of the seriousness of our choices and the consequences that can follow disobedience to God. It encourages us to seek God's mercy and guidance in our lives, understanding that turning away from Him can lead to dire outcomes. Staying faithful and obedient is crucial.
Curated for this public verse page. Jeremiah Summary
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Keep studying Jeremiah 21:7
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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 21:7 mean?
Jeremiah 21:7 conveys God's message that after a time of suffering, King Zedekiah and the remaining people of Judah will be handed over to Nebuchadnezzar, the king of Babylon. This signifies God's judgment against Judah for their disobedience, emphasizing the severity of their situation and the lack of mercy from their conquerors.
What is the significance of the sword in Jeremiah 21:7?
The sword in Jeremiah 21:7 symbolizes violence and destruction that will come as a result of God's judgment. It highlights the seriousness of the consequences for Judah's disobedience and the ruthless nature of their enemies.
What does the phrase 'he will not spare them' mean in Jeremiah 21:7?
The phrase 'he will not spare them' indicates that Nebuchadnezzar will show no mercy or compassion towards the people of Judah. It underscores the totality of the impending judgment and the harsh reality they will face.
How does Jeremiah 21:7 relate to the themes of divine judgment and mercy?
Jeremiah 21:7 illustrates divine judgment by showing the consequences of Judah's actions, while also highlighting the absence of mercy from their enemies. It serves as a reminder of the seriousness of turning away from God and the resulting discipline.
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