Old Testament
Jeremiah 47:3
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
This verse from Jeremiah describes a scene of chaos and fear during a time of impending destruction.
- Author
- Jeremiah the prophet, with Baruch
- Written
- Around 600 BC
- Genre
- Prophecy
- Original Audience
- Judah before and during the Babylonian exile
At the noise of the pounding hooves of his strong horses, at the rushing of his chariots, and at the rumbling of his wheels, fathers will not turn back to their children because their hands are too weak.
At the noise of the stamping of the hoofs of his strong horses, at the rushing of his chariots, and at the rumbling of his wheels, the fathers shall not look back to their children for feebleness of hands;
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
This verse from Jeremiah describes a scene of chaos and fear during a time of impending destruction. The imagery of strong horses and chariots suggests a powerful enemy approaching, creating a sense of urgency and panic. Fathers, who are typically protectors, are depicted as so overwhelmed by fear and weakness that they cannot even look back to their children. This highlights the severity of the situation, where the threat is so great that familial bonds are overshadowed by the instinct for self-preservation. The verse serves as a stark reminder of the consequences of conflict and the emotional toll it takes on families, illustrating how fear can paralyze even the strongest of relationships. It emphasizes the vulnerability of individuals in times of crisis, where the instinct to protect loved ones can be overshadowed by sheer terror.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Jeremiah 47:3 to your life
In times of crisis, it’s important to remember the impact of fear on our relationships. We should strive to support one another and maintain our connections, even when faced with overwhelming challenges. Building resilience can help us stay united during difficult times.
Curated for this public verse page. Jeremiah Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Jeremiah 47:3 mean?
Jeremiah 47:3 describes a scene of chaos where the sound of approaching enemies causes fathers to be so overwhelmed by fear that they cannot even look back at their children. This illustrates the severity of the situation and the impact of fear on familial bonds.
What is the significance of strong horses in Jeremiah 47:3?
The strong horses in Jeremiah 47:3 symbolize a powerful enemy approaching, creating a sense of urgency and danger. Their noise represents the impending destruction that instills fear in those who should be protectors.
What does 'feebleness of hands' refer to in Jeremiah 47:3?
'Feebleness of hands' in Jeremiah 47:3 refers to the weakness and inability of fathers to protect their children due to overwhelming fear. It highlights how fear can paralyze even the strongest individuals in times of crisis.
How can we apply the message of Jeremiah 47:3 today?
We can apply the message of Jeremiah 47:3 by recognizing the impact of fear on our relationships and striving to support one another during crises. Building resilience and maintaining connections can help us navigate difficult times together.

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.
Unlock the full Jeremiah summary
Continue reading every chapter — themes, structure, and turning points.
The complete summary of Jeremiah — a chapter-by-chapter breakdown covering all 52 chapters.
What you get
Every chapter of Jeremiah summarized in clear, modern English
How each section connects — narrative flow, key themes, and turning points
Permanent access — read anytime, on any device
Best value • Save over 90%
One-time purchase • Access anytime
ClearBible summaries are proprietary content and may not be copied, republished, or resold.
Checkout works as a guest. After payment, you create an account to claim your unlock.