Old Testament
Jeremiah 48:31
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So I will wail for Moab — I will cry out for all of Moab. My heart mourns for the men of Kirheres.
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Therefore will I howl for Moab, and I will cry out for all Moab; mine heart shall mourn for the men of Kirheres.
What Jeremiah 48:31 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, the prophet Jeremiah expresses deep sorrow for the people of Moab, a nation that is facing destruction. His lamentation signifies not just personal grief but also a collective mourning for the fate of a whole community. The mention of Kirheres, a city in Moab, highlights the specific suffering of its inhabitants. Jeremiah's emotional response reflects God's concern for all nations, even those that have been adversaries. This verse serves as a reminder of the compassion that should be extended to others, regardless of their past actions. It emphasizes the importance of empathy and understanding in the face of tragedy, urging us to recognize the humanity in those who suffer, even if they are not part of our own community.
How to apply Jeremiah 48:31 to your life
This verse encourages us to cultivate a heart of compassion for those who are suffering, even if they are from different backgrounds or have been adversaries. It challenges us to mourn with those who mourn and to extend our empathy beyond our immediate circles, fostering a spirit of unity and understanding.
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 48:31 mean?
Jeremiah 48:31 expresses the prophet's deep sorrow for the people of Moab, indicating a collective mourning for their impending destruction. It highlights God's compassion for all nations, even those considered adversaries.
What is the significance of Kirheres in Jeremiah 48:31?
Kirheres is mentioned in Jeremiah 48:31 to emphasize the specific suffering of its inhabitants during Moab's destruction. This focus on a particular city illustrates the broader tragedy affecting the entire nation.
What themes are present in Jeremiah 48:31?
Jeremiah 48:31 encompasses themes of lamentation, compassion, and empathy, as it reflects on the suffering of a community facing judgment. It also highlights divine concern for all people, regardless of their past.
How can we apply Jeremiah 48:31 to our lives today?
Jeremiah 48:31 encourages us to show compassion for those who suffer, even if they are from different backgrounds or have been adversaries. It challenges us to empathize with others and foster unity in times of tragedy.
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