Old Testament
Jeremiah 29:18
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I will persecute them with the sword, famine, and disease, and I will scatter them to all the kingdoms of the earth, making them a curse, an astonishment, a hissing, and a reproach among all the nations where I have driven them.
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And I will persecute them with the sword, with the famine, and with the pestilence, and will deliver them to be removed to all the kingdoms of the earth, to be a curse, and an astonishment, and an hissing, and a reproach, among all the nations whither I have driven them:
What Jeremiah 29:18 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, God declares His intention to punish those who have turned away from Him. He will use severe means such as war, famine, and disease to bring about their downfall. The consequences of their actions will lead to their scattering among various nations, where they will be seen as a curse and a source of shame. This reflects the seriousness of disobedience to God and the impact it has not only on individuals but also on communities. The imagery of being a 'curse' and 'astonishment' highlights how their rebellion will lead to a loss of dignity and respect among other nations. This serves as a warning about the repercussions of straying from God's commands and the importance of remaining faithful to Him, as the consequences can be dire and far-reaching.
How to apply Jeremiah 29:18 to your life
This verse reminds us of the importance of staying faithful to God. It encourages us to reflect on our actions and their potential consequences. By adhering to God's teachings, we can avoid the pitfalls of disobedience and maintain our integrity and dignity 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 29:18 mean?
Jeremiah 29:18 expresses God's warning of impending punishment for those who have turned away from Him. It indicates that He will use severe methods like war, famine, and disease to scatter them among the nations, making them a source of shame.
What is the significance of being a 'curse' in Jeremiah 29:18?
Being labeled a 'curse' in Jeremiah 29:18 signifies the disgrace and dishonor that will come upon those who disobey God. It highlights the serious consequences of rebellion against Him, affecting not just individuals but entire communities.
What does the phrase 'astonishment and hissing' mean in this verse?
The phrase 'astonishment and hissing' in Jeremiah 29:18 refers to the shock and ridicule that the scattered people will face from other nations. It illustrates how their disobedience will lead to a loss of respect and dignity.
What are the consequences mentioned in Jeremiah 29:18?
The consequences mentioned in Jeremiah 29:18 include persecution through the sword, famine, and disease, leading to the scattering of people among various nations. This serves as a warning about the dire outcomes of turning away from God.
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