Old Testament
Jeremiah 5:30
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
In Jeremiah 5:30, the prophet expresses deep concern over the moral and spiritual decay in Israel.
- Author
- Jeremiah the prophet, with Baruch
- Written
- Around 600 BC
- Genre
- Prophecy
- Original Audience
- Judah before and during the Babylonian exile
"Something shocking and horrifying has happened in this land:
A wonderful and horrible thing is committed in the land;
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In Jeremiah 5:30, the prophet expresses deep concern over the moral and spiritual decay in Israel. He describes the situation as both shocking and horrifying, indicating that the people have turned away from God and engaged in practices that are contrary to His will. This verse highlights the seriousness of their sins, which are so severe that they evoke a sense of wonder and horror. The use of the words 'wonderful' and 'horrible' suggests a paradox; the people may be amazed by their own actions, yet they are also destructive and lead to their downfall. This serves as a warning about the consequences of abandoning faith and righteousness, emphasizing the need for repentance and a return to God’s ways. The verse encapsulates the broader themes of judgment and the call for spiritual renewal, urging the people to recognize the gravity of their situation and the need for change. Explore related corruption.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Jeremiah 5:30 to your life
This verse reminds us to examine our own lives for areas where we may have strayed from God's teachings. It encourages us to recognize the seriousness of our actions and to seek repentance. By turning back to God, we can restore our relationship with Him and align our lives with His will.
Curated for this public verse page. Jeremiah Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Jeremiah 5:30 mean by 'wonderful and horrible'?
In Jeremiah 5:30, the terms 'wonderful' and 'horrible' highlight a paradox in the moral state of Israel. The people are engaged in actions that they may find astonishing or impressive, yet these very actions are deeply destructive and contrary to God's will. This duality emphasizes the seriousness of their sins and the shocking nature of their spiritual decay.
How does Jeremiah 5:30 relate to the concept of repentance?
Jeremiah 5:30 serves as a stark warning about the consequences of turning away from God. The verse illustrates the need for repentance by showing how the people's actions have led to moral and spiritual decay. It calls for self-examination and a return to God's teachings, emphasizing that acknowledging one's sins is the first step towards restoring a relationship with Him.
What are the consequences mentioned in Jeremiah 5:30?
The consequences implied in Jeremiah 5:30 include spiritual decay and eventual judgment. The verse indicates that the people's shocking and horrifying actions will lead to dire outcomes, as they have abandoned God's ways. This serves as a reminder that turning away from righteousness can result in a loss of divine favor and protection.
How can I apply Jeremiah 5:30 to my life today?
You can apply Jeremiah 5:30 by reflecting on your own actions and assessing whether they align with God's teachings. It encourages you to identify areas where you may have strayed and to seek repentance. By turning back to God and committing to live according to His will, you can restore your spiritual health and avoid the pitfalls of moral decay.

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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