Old Testament
Jeremiah 22:8
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, the prophet Jeremiah is conveying a message about the impending destruction of Jerusalem.
- Author
- Jeremiah the prophet, with Baruch
- Written
- Around 600 BC
- Genre
- Prophecy
- Original Audience
- Judah before and during the Babylonian exile
People from many nations will pass by this city and ask each other, 'Why did the LORD do this to such a great city?'
And many nations shall pass by this city, and they shall say every man to his neighbour, Wherefore hath the LORD done thus unto this great city?
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, the prophet Jeremiah is conveying a message about the impending destruction of Jerusalem. He describes how people from various nations will witness the city's downfall and will be astonished, questioning why God allowed such a calamity to happen to a city that was once great. This reflects the idea that Jerusalem was not only significant to the Israelites but also to surrounding nations. The verse highlights the consequences of disobedience to God and serves as a warning about the seriousness of turning away from divine guidance. The astonishment of the nations emphasizes the gravity of the situation and the impact of God's judgment. It serves as a reminder that God's actions can lead to widespread recognition of His power and authority, even among those who are not part of His chosen people. Ultimately, this verse encapsulates the themes of judgment, the consequences of sin, and the universal acknowledgment of God's sovereignty.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Jeremiah 22:8 to your life
This verse encourages us to reflect on our own lives and the importance of obedience to God. Just as Jerusalem faced consequences for its actions, we too must consider how our choices align with God's will. It serves as a reminder to seek God's guidance and live righteously to avoid similar outcomes.
Curated for this public verse page. Jeremiah Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Jeremiah 22:8 mean?
Jeremiah 22:8 describes how people from various nations will witness the destruction of Jerusalem and question why God allowed such a calamity to occur. It highlights the city's significance and the consequences of disobedience to God.
What is the significance of Jerusalem in Jeremiah 22:8?
In Jeremiah 22:8, Jerusalem represents a once-great city that faces destruction due to its people's disobedience. The verse emphasizes that its downfall will be noticed by surrounding nations, showcasing the impact of God's judgment.
What does the phrase 'many nations shall pass by this city' mean?
The phrase 'many nations shall pass by this city' indicates that people from different nations will observe Jerusalem's destruction. Their astonishment reflects the seriousness of God's judgment and the universal recognition of His authority.
What themes are present in Jeremiah 22:8?
Jeremiah 22:8 encompasses themes of judgment, destruction, divine sovereignty, and the consequences of sin. It illustrates how God's actions can lead to widespread acknowledgment of His power, even among those outside His chosen people.

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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