Old Testament
Jeremiah 9:1
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
If only my head were a spring of water and my eyes a fountain of tears, so I could weep day and night for the slain of the daughter of my people!
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Oh that my head were waters, and mine eyes a fountain of tears, that I might weep day and night for the slain of the daughter of my people!
What Jeremiah 9:1 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, the prophet Jeremiah expresses deep sorrow and anguish over the suffering and death of his people. He wishes that he could cry endlessly, comparing his tears to a fountain, to show the depth of his grief. The imagery of a spring of water and a fountain emphasizes the overwhelming nature of his emotions. Jeremiah's lament reflects his concern for the spiritual and physical state of his community, highlighting the pain caused by their disobedience to God. His desire to weep day and night illustrates the seriousness of the situation and his compassion for those who have suffered. This verse sets the tone for the themes of mourning and repentance that permeate the book of Jeremiah, as he calls for awareness of the consequences of sin and the need for restoration.
How to apply Jeremiah 9:1 to your life
This verse encourages us to empathize with the suffering of others and to express our grief over injustice and loss. It reminds us to be compassionate and to support those in pain, reflecting God's love and concern for His people. We can also use our tears as a call to action for healing and restoration.
Curated for this public verse page. Jeremiah Summary
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Keep studying Jeremiah 9:1
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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 9:1 mean?
Jeremiah 9:1 expresses the prophet's profound sorrow for the suffering and death of his people. He wishes he could cry endlessly to show the depth of his grief over their disobedience and the consequences they face.
What is the meaning of tears in Jeremiah 9:1?
In Jeremiah 9:1, tears symbolize deep emotional pain and compassion for the suffering of his community. The imagery of a fountain of tears highlights the overwhelming nature of Jeremiah's grief for the slain among his people.
How does Jeremiah 9:1 relate to compassion?
Jeremiah 9:1 illustrates the importance of compassion by showing how deeply the prophet feels for his people. His desire to weep continuously for their suffering encourages us to empathize with others in pain.
What themes are present in Jeremiah 9:1?
The themes present in Jeremiah 9:1 include grief, compassion, lamentation, and the consequences of spiritual suffering. It highlights the need for awareness and repentance within the community.
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