Old Testament
Jeremiah 46:12
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The nations have heard about your disgrace, and your cries of defeat fill the land. Warrior trips over warrior, and they collapse together."
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The nations have heard of thy shame, and thy cry hath filled the land: for the mighty man hath stumbled against the mighty, and they are fallen both together.
What Jeremiah 46:12 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, the prophet Jeremiah conveys a message about the defeat of Egypt in battle. The disgrace of the nation is widely known, and their cries of defeat echo throughout the land. The imagery of warriors stumbling over one another illustrates the chaos and confusion in battle, highlighting the futility of their efforts against a stronger foe. This verse serves as a reminder of the consequences of pride and reliance on military strength rather than on God. The defeat is not just a military loss but a significant blow to their national identity and reputation. The mention of both mighty men falling together emphasizes that even the strongest are not immune to failure when they oppose God's will. This serves as a warning to all nations about the importance of humility and the recognition of divine authority in their endeavors.
How to apply Jeremiah 46:12 to your life
This verse encourages us to reflect on our own reliance on strength and pride. In our lives, we may face situations where we feel invincible, but this passage reminds us that true strength comes from humility and dependence on God. We should seek His guidance in our decisions and actions.
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 46:12 mean?
Jeremiah 46:12 describes the defeat of Egypt in battle, highlighting the widespread shame and cries of defeat that resonate throughout the land. It illustrates the chaos of warriors stumbling over each other, symbolizing the futility of their efforts against a stronger enemy.
What is the significance of the phrase 'mighty man hath stumbled against the mighty' in Jeremiah 46:12?
The phrase emphasizes that even the strongest warriors can fail when they oppose God's will. It serves as a reminder that pride and reliance on military strength can lead to downfall.
How does Jeremiah 46:12 relate to themes of pride and national identity?
Jeremiah 46:12 illustrates how pride can lead to national disgrace, as Egypt's defeat not only signifies a military loss but also a blow to their identity and reputation among nations.
What lessons can we learn from Jeremiah 46:12?
We can learn the importance of humility and the dangers of overconfidence in our own strength. This verse encourages us to seek guidance from God rather than relying solely on our abilities.
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