Old Testament
Jeremiah 6:28
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"Every one of them is stubbornly rebellious, spreading slander wherever they go. They are hard as bronze and iron — all of them are corrupt."
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They are all grievous revolters, walking with slanders: they are brass and iron; they are all corrupters.
What Jeremiah 6:28 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In Jeremiah 6:28, the prophet describes the people of Judah as being obstinately rebellious and spreading falsehoods. Their hearts are compared to bronze and iron, indicating their hardness and unwillingness to change. This imagery suggests that they are not only resistant to correction but also actively corrupting others with their deceitful behavior. The verse highlights the moral decay within the community, where slander and rebellion are rampant. The use of metals like bronze and iron symbolizes their strength in wickedness, making it difficult for them to be swayed towards righteousness. This passage serves as a warning about the consequences of such stubbornness and corruption, emphasizing the need for repentance and a return to God’s ways. It reflects the broader theme of the book of Jeremiah, which addresses the unfaithfulness of Israel and the impending judgment due to their persistent sinfulness.
How to apply Jeremiah 6:28 to your life
This verse encourages us to examine our own hearts for stubbornness and rebellion. We should strive to be open to correction and avoid spreading negativity or falsehoods. By fostering honesty and integrity in our interactions, we can contribute to a healthier community and reflect God's truth in our lives.
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 6:28 mean?
Jeremiah 6:28 describes the people of Judah as stubbornly rebellious and spreading slander. It highlights their hardness of heart, comparing them to bronze and iron, indicating their unwillingness to change and their corrupt influence on others.
What is the significance of slander in Jeremiah 6:28?
In Jeremiah 6:28, slander represents the destructive behavior of the people, showing how their falsehoods contribute to moral decay within the community. It emphasizes the negative impact of their words and actions on society.
How does Jeremiah 6:28 relate to the theme of rebellion?
Jeremiah 6:28 illustrates the theme of rebellion by portraying the people as obstinate and resistant to correction. Their actions reflect a broader pattern of unfaithfulness and defiance against God's guidance.
What does the imagery of bronze and iron mean in Jeremiah 6:28?
The imagery of bronze and iron in Jeremiah 6:28 symbolizes the hardness and strength of the people's hearts, indicating their resistance to change and their deep-rooted corruption.
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