Old Testament
Jeremiah 22:14
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
He says, 'I'll build myself a grand palace with spacious upper rooms,' then cuts out large windows, panels it with cedar, and paints it bright red.
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That saith, I will build me a wide house and large chambers, and cutteth him out windows; and it is cieled with cedar, and painted with vermilion.
What Jeremiah 22:14 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, the speaker describes a person who is focused on building an extravagant house for themselves. The imagery of a grand palace with spacious upper rooms, large windows, and luxurious cedar paneling suggests a desire for wealth and status. The bright red paint symbolizes boldness and a desire to stand out. This verse highlights the tendency of some individuals to prioritize material possessions and personal comfort over more important values, such as justice and compassion. It serves as a critique of those who seek to elevate themselves through opulence while neglecting their responsibilities to others. The context of this verse is significant, as it reflects the broader themes of social injustice and the consequences of neglecting the needs of the vulnerable in society. Ultimately, it challenges readers to reflect on their own priorities and the impact of their choices on the world around them.
How to apply Jeremiah 22:14 to your life
This verse encourages us to examine our own lives and priorities. Are we focused on building our own comfort and status at the expense of others? It reminds us to seek balance, ensuring that our pursuits do not overshadow our responsibilities to help those in need.
Curated for this public verse page. Jeremiah Summary
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Keep studying Jeremiah 22:14
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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 22:14 mean?
Jeremiah 22:14 describes a person who is focused on building a lavish home, emphasizing material wealth and personal comfort. The verse critiques the tendency to prioritize opulence over social responsibility and justice.
What is the significance of the bright red paint in Jeremiah 22:14?
The bright red paint in Jeremiah 22:14 symbolizes boldness and a desire to stand out. It reflects the extravagant choices made by the individual, highlighting their focus on appearance and status.
What themes are present in Jeremiah 22:14?
Jeremiah 22:14 presents themes of materialism, self-indulgence, and social justice. It critiques the pursuit of personal wealth at the expense of caring for others and emphasizes the importance of personal responsibility.
How does Jeremiah 22:14 relate to social justice?
Jeremiah 22:14 critiques those who seek to elevate themselves through luxury while ignoring the needs of the vulnerable. It serves as a reminder of the importance of justice and compassion in our actions.
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