Old Testament
Jeremiah 48:3
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
In Jeremiah 48:3, the prophet Jeremiah conveys a message of mourning and despair coming from the city of Horonaim.
- Author
- Jeremiah the prophet, with Baruch
- Written
- Around 600 BC
- Genre
- Prophecy
- Original Audience
- Judah before and during the Babylonian exile
Listen — cries ring out from Horonaim: devastation and terrible destruction!
A voice of crying shall be from Horonaim, spoiling and great destruction.
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In Jeremiah 48:3, the prophet Jeremiah conveys a message of mourning and despair coming from the city of Horonaim. This city, located in Moab, is depicted as a place of great suffering due to impending destruction. The cries of the people reflect their anguish and the severity of the devastation they are experiencing. The verse emphasizes the seriousness of the situation, indicating that the destruction is not just physical but also emotional, as the inhabitants are deeply affected by the calamity. This prophecy serves as a warning about the consequences of turning away from God and the inevitable judgment that follows. The imagery of crying and destruction highlights the gravity of the circumstances, urging the readers to recognize the impact of sin and the need for repentance. Overall, this verse encapsulates the themes of judgment, loss, and the human response to tragedy, reminding us of the importance of remaining faithful and aware of the consequences of our actions.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Jeremiah 48:3 to your life
This verse serves as a reminder of the consequences of turning away from God. It encourages us to reflect on our own lives and the impact of our choices. By staying faithful and seeking repentance, we can avoid the devastation that comes from straying from God's path.
Curated for this public verse page. Jeremiah Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Jeremiah 48:3 mean?
Jeremiah 48:3 expresses the deep sorrow and devastation experienced by the people of Horonaim, a city in Moab. The verse highlights the emotional and physical destruction that results from turning away from God. It serves as a prophetic warning about the consequences of sin and the inevitable judgment that follows, urging readers to recognize the seriousness of their actions and the need for repentance.
Why is Horonaim significant in this verse?
Horonaim is significant in Jeremiah 48:3 as it symbolizes a place of great suffering and destruction. The city represents the broader consequences faced by the people of Moab due to their disobedience to God. The cries from Horonaim illustrate the emotional turmoil and despair that accompany physical devastation, making it a poignant example of the impact of sin and the need for turning back to God.
How can I apply Jeremiah 48:3 to my life?
You can apply Jeremiah 48:3 to your life by reflecting on your choices and their alignment with God's will. The verse serves as a reminder of the potential consequences of straying from faith. By staying committed to your beliefs and seeking repentance when necessary, you can avoid the emotional and spiritual devastation that comes from turning away from God. It encourages a proactive approach to faith and accountability.
What themes are present in Jeremiah 48:3?
Jeremiah 48:3 encompasses several key themes, including judgment, destruction, mourning, sin, repentance, and consequences. The verse illustrates the gravity of sin and the resulting judgment, emphasizing the emotional response of the people affected by the calamity. It serves as a reminder of the importance of recognizing the impact of our actions and the need for repentance to avoid similar devastation.

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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