Old Testament
Jeremiah 3:24
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 expresses deep sorrow over the consequences of shame that has affected the people of Israel.
- Author
- Jeremiah the prophet, with Baruch
- Written
- Around 600 BC
- Genre
- Prophecy
- Original Audience
- Judah before and during the Babylonian exile
For shame has consumed the work of our fathers from our youth—their flocks and herds, their sons and daughters.
For shame hath devoured the labour of our fathers from our youth; their flocks and their herds, their sons and their daughters.
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, the prophet Jeremiah expresses deep sorrow over the consequences of shame that has affected the people of Israel. He highlights how this shame has consumed the efforts and achievements of their ancestors, leading to a loss of their livestock and family. The imagery of flocks and herds symbolizes their livelihood and prosperity, while sons and daughters represent their future and legacy. The verse reflects a sense of collective guilt and the impact of sin on the community, suggesting that the shame experienced is not just personal but communal, affecting generations. This lamentation serves as a reminder of the importance of maintaining faithfulness to God and the devastating effects of turning away from Him. The historical context indicates that the people had strayed from their covenant with God, leading to their current state of despair and loss. Jeremiah's words call for reflection on the past and a return to righteousness to restore what has been lost. Explore related repentance.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Jeremiah 3:24 to your life
This verse encourages us to reflect on how our actions and choices can impact not only our lives but also the lives of those around us. It serves as a reminder to uphold our values and maintain our integrity, ensuring that we do not bring shame upon ourselves or our families. By staying true to our principles, we can foster a positive legacy for future generations.
Curated for this public verse page. Jeremiah Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Jeremiah 3:24 mean?
Jeremiah 3:24 expresses the sorrow of the prophet over the shame that has consumed the efforts of the ancestors of Israel. It highlights how this shame has led to the loss of their livestock and family, symbolizing the impact of sin on the community and the need for a return to faithfulness to God.
What is the significance of shame in Jeremiah 3:24?
In Jeremiah 3:24, shame represents the collective guilt of the people of Israel for turning away from God. It signifies the consequences of their actions, which have led to the loss of their heritage and prosperity, affecting not just individuals but the entire community.
What does 'the work of our fathers' refer to in Jeremiah 3:24?
The phrase 'the work of our fathers' in Jeremiah 3:24 refers to the efforts and achievements of the ancestors of Israel, including their livestock and family. It symbolizes the legacy and prosperity that has been consumed by shame due to the people's disobedience to God.
How does Jeremiah 3:24 relate to community and heritage?
Jeremiah 3:24 highlights the interconnectedness of community and heritage, showing how the shame experienced by individuals affects the entire community. The loss of livestock and family represents a broader impact on the future and legacy of the people, emphasizing the importance of collective faithfulness.

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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