Old Testament

Jeremiah 50:17

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, Israel is compared to a sheep that has been scattered and hunted by lions, symbolizing the dangers and threats faced by the nation.

Author
Jeremiah the prophet, with Baruch
Written
Around 600 BC
Genre
Prophecy
Original Audience
Judah before and during the Babylonian exile
CBTClear Bible Translation

"Israel is a scattered sheep that lions have chased down. First the king of Assyria devoured him, and now finally Nebuchadrezzar king of Babylon has crushed his bones."

KJVKing James Version

Israel is a scattered sheep; the lions have driven him away: first the king of Assyria hath devoured him; and last this Nebuchadrezzar king of Babylon hath broken his bones.

Verse Analysis

Plain-English insight for readers

In this verse, Israel is compared to a sheep that has been scattered and hunted by lions, symbolizing the dangers and threats faced by the nation. The reference to the king of Assyria indicates that Israel was first attacked and consumed by this powerful enemy. Following that, Nebuchadnezzar, the king of Babylon, is depicted as having further harmed Israel, breaking its bones, which signifies deep suffering and destruction. This imagery highlights the vulnerability of Israel and the relentless pursuit by its enemies. The verse serves as a reminder of the consequences of disobedience and the resulting judgment from God, as Israel's scattering and suffering are portrayed as a result of their unfaithfulness. It emphasizes the need for repentance and the hope for restoration, as God ultimately cares for His people, even in their darkest times.

How to apply Jeremiah 50:17 to your life

This verse encourages us to recognize the consequences of straying from our faith and the protection that God offers. It reminds us to stay close to God and seek His guidance, especially during difficult times. Trusting in His care can lead to healing and restoration.

Curated for this public verse page. Jeremiah Summary

Frequently Asked Questions

Quick, clear answers about this verse

What does Jeremiah 50:17 mean?

Jeremiah 50:17 compares Israel to a scattered sheep that has been hunted by lions, illustrating the nation's vulnerability and suffering due to attacks from powerful enemies like Assyria and Babylon.

What is the significance of the lions in Jeremiah 50:17?

The lions in Jeremiah 50:17 symbolize the fierce enemies of Israel, representing the dangers and threats that have pursued the nation, leading to its scattering and destruction.

Who are the kings mentioned in Jeremiah 50:17?

The kings mentioned in Jeremiah 50:17 are the king of Assyria, who first attacked Israel, and Nebuchadnezzar, the king of Babylon, who further harmed the nation, symbolizing the ongoing oppression Israel faced.

What does the imagery of broken bones mean in Jeremiah 50:17?

The imagery of broken bones in Jeremiah 50:17 signifies deep suffering and destruction inflicted upon Israel, highlighting the severity of their plight under foreign rulers.

The Book of Jeremiah
Book Summary

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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