Old Testament
Jeremiah 48:27
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, God is addressing Moab, a nation that has mocked Israel.
- Author
- Jeremiah the prophet, with Baruch
- Written
- Around 600 BC
- Genre
- Prophecy
- Original Audience
- Judah before and during the Babylonian exile
Didn't you mock Israel? Was he found among thieves? Every time you spoke of him, you skipped for joy.
For was not Israel a derision unto thee? was he found among thieves? for since thou spakest of him, thou skippedst for joy.
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, God is addressing Moab, a nation that has mocked Israel. The rhetorical questions highlight how Moab has treated Israel with scorn and derision, celebrating Israel's misfortunes. The mention of thieves suggests that Israel was unjustly accused or misunderstood, as if he were a criminal. The joy Moab felt at Israel's struggles reveals a deeper animosity and lack of compassion. This verse serves as a reminder of the consequences of mocking others, especially those who are suffering. It emphasizes that God sees and remembers the actions of nations and individuals, and He will respond to their treatment of His people. The mocking of Israel is not just a trivial matter; it reflects a broader attitude of pride and disdain that can lead to serious repercussions. Ultimately, this verse calls for humility and warns against rejoicing in the downfall of others, as it can lead to one's own downfall. Explore related mockery.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Jeremiah 48:27 to your life
This verse encourages us to reflect on how we treat others, especially those who are vulnerable or in distress. Instead of mocking or celebrating others' failures, we should practice empathy and support. Recognizing our shared humanity can foster kindness and prevent the cycle of scorn and retribution.
Curated for this public verse page. Jeremiah Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Jeremiah 48:27 mean?
Jeremiah 48:27 addresses Moab's mocking of Israel, highlighting their scorn and joy in Israel's misfortunes. It emphasizes that God sees this treatment and will respond to their actions.
What is the significance of mocking in Jeremiah 48:27?
The mocking in Jeremiah 48:27 signifies a lack of compassion and pride, showing how Moab celebrated Israel's struggles. This behavior is condemned as it reflects a deeper animosity and can lead to serious consequences.
What does the phrase 'skipped for joy' mean in Jeremiah 48:27?
The phrase 'skipped for joy' in Jeremiah 48:27 indicates that Moab rejoiced over Israel's difficulties, revealing their contempt and lack of empathy towards Israel's suffering.
How does Jeremiah 48:27 relate to compassion?
Jeremiah 48:27 serves as a reminder to practice compassion instead of mockery. It encourages us to support those who are struggling rather than celebrating their failures.

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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