Old Testament

Jeremiah 23:15

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, God is addressing the false prophets in Jerusalem who have led the people astray.

Author
Jeremiah the prophet, with Baruch
Written
Around 600 BC
Genre
Prophecy
Original Audience
Judah before and during the Babylonian exile
CBTClear Bible Translation

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."

KJVKing James Version

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.

Verse Analysis

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. Explore related deception.

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

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.

The Book of Jeremiah
Book Summary

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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