Old Testament
Jeremiah 23:15
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So the LORD of Armies says this about those prophets: "Watch — I'm going to feed them wormwood and make them drink poisoned water, because the prophets of Jerusalem have spread corruption throughout the entire land."
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Therefore thus saith the LORD of hosts concerning the prophets; Behold, I will feed them with wormwood, and make them drink the water of gall: for from the prophets of Jerusalem is profaneness gone forth into all the land.
What Jeremiah 23:15 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, God is addressing the false prophets in Jerusalem who have led the people astray. He uses the imagery of wormwood and poisoned water to symbolize the bitterness and destruction that will come as a result of their corrupt teachings. Wormwood is a plant known for its bitterness, and gall refers to something that is toxic or harmful. God is declaring that these prophets, who have spread profaneness and corruption throughout the land, will face severe consequences for their actions. Their misleading messages have not only affected individuals but have tainted the entire community. This warning serves as a reminder of the seriousness of leading others away from God's truth and the inevitable judgment that follows such actions.
How to apply Jeremiah 23:15 to your life
This verse encourages us to be discerning about the teachings we follow and to seek truth rooted in God's Word. It reminds us of the importance of integrity in spiritual leadership and the potential harm that can arise from misleading others. We should strive to promote truth and righteousness in our communities.
Curated for this public verse page. Jeremiah Summary
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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 23:15 mean?
Jeremiah 23:15 means that God is condemning the false prophets in Jerusalem for leading people away from His truth. He warns that they will face severe consequences, symbolized by wormwood and poisoned water, representing bitterness and destruction.
What is the significance of wormwood in Jeremiah 23:15?
Wormwood in Jeremiah 23:15 symbolizes bitterness and suffering. It represents the consequences that false prophets will face for their corrupt teachings and the harm they have caused to the people.
What does 'water of gall' refer to in this verse?
The 'water of gall' in Jeremiah 23:15 refers to toxic or poisonous water, symbolizing the harmful effects of the false prophets' messages. It illustrates the destructive nature of their teachings on the community.
How does Jeremiah 23:15 apply to today?
Jeremiah 23:15 applies today by reminding us to be cautious about the teachings we accept and to seek truth in God's Word. It emphasizes the importance of integrity in spiritual leadership and the potential dangers of misleading others.
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