Old Testament
Jeremiah 47:5
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Baldness has come upon Gaza; Ashkelon is cut off with the remnant of their valley. How long will you cut yourselves?
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Baldness is come upon Gaza; Ashkelon is cut off with the remnant of their valley: how long wilt thou cut thyself?
What Jeremiah 47:5 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, the prophet Jeremiah is delivering a message of impending doom to the Philistine cities of Gaza and Ashkelon. The mention of "baldness" symbolizes mourning and loss, indicating that these cities will face destruction and desolation. The phrase "cut yourselves" refers to a common practice of self-mutilation among the people as a sign of grief or desperation. Jeremiah questions how long they will continue this practice, suggesting that their actions are futile in the face of the judgment that is coming. This verse serves as a warning about the consequences of sin and the futility of trying to appease God through acts of despair rather than genuine repentance. It highlights the seriousness of their situation and the need for a change in their hearts and actions to avoid further calamity.
How to apply Jeremiah 47:5 to your life
This verse reminds us that external expressions of grief or desperation do not substitute for true repentance. Instead of resorting to self-harm or despair in difficult times, we should seek genuine change in our lives and turn to God for healing and guidance. True transformation comes from the heart.
Curated for this public verse page. Jeremiah Summary
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Keep studying Jeremiah 47:5
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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 47:5 mean?
Jeremiah 47:5 conveys a message of impending destruction for the cities of Gaza and Ashkelon, symbolized by 'baldness' which represents mourning. The verse questions the futility of self-harm as a response to grief, urging a need for genuine repentance instead.
What is the significance of 'baldness' in Jeremiah 47:5?
In Jeremiah 47:5, 'baldness' symbolizes mourning and loss, indicating the devastation that will come upon Gaza and Ashkelon. It reflects the deep sorrow and destruction these cities will face.
What does 'cut yourselves' refer to in Jeremiah 47:5?
The phrase 'cut yourselves' in Jeremiah 47:5 refers to a practice of self-mutilation done by people as a sign of grief or desperation. Jeremiah questions how long they will continue this futile act in light of the coming judgment.
What is the overall message of Jeremiah 47:5?
The overall message of Jeremiah 47:5 is a warning about the consequences of sin and the futility of expressing grief through self-harm. It emphasizes the need for true repentance and a change of heart to avoid further calamity.
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