Old Testament
Jeremiah 9:18
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
Tell them to hurry and raise a wail over us, until tears stream from our eyes and water pours from our eyelids."
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And let them make haste, and take up a wailing for us, that our eyes may run down with tears, and our eyelids gush out with waters.
What Jeremiah 9:18 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, the prophet Jeremiah is calling for a deep expression of grief and mourning. He urges people to quickly gather and lament over the dire situation facing the nation. The imagery of tears streaming down and eyelids gushing with water emphasizes the intensity of their sorrow. This call to wail reflects the seriousness of the consequences of sin and the impending judgment that the people are facing. It serves as a reminder of the emotional weight of loss and the need for communal mourning in times of crisis. The act of wailing is not just a personal expression but a collective response to the tragedy that has befallen them, highlighting the importance of community in times of grief. This verse captures the essence of lamentation, where the pain of the people is laid bare, and their need for divine intervention is made evident. It invites reflection on the state of the heart and the necessity of acknowledging sorrow in the face of sin and its repercussions.
How to apply Jeremiah 9:18 to your life
This verse encourages us to acknowledge our grief and the impact of sin in our lives and communities. It reminds us of the importance of coming together to support one another in times of sorrow, fostering a spirit of empathy and compassion. We should not shy away from expressing our emotions and seeking healing through communal support.
Curated for this public verse page. Jeremiah Summary
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Keep studying Jeremiah 9:18
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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 9:18 mean in context?
Jeremiah 9:18 is a call for communal mourning in response to the impending judgment on Israel due to their sins. The prophet urges the people to express their grief openly, highlighting the seriousness of their situation. This verse emphasizes the collective nature of sorrow and the need for the community to come together in lamentation, reflecting on the consequences of their actions and the urgency of seeking God's mercy.
How can I apply Jeremiah 9:18 to my life?
You can apply Jeremiah 9:18 by recognizing the importance of expressing grief and supporting others in times of sorrow. This verse encourages you to be open about your emotions and to seek communal healing. It reminds us to acknowledge the impact of sin in our lives and to come together with empathy and compassion, fostering a supportive environment where individuals can share their burdens and seek comfort.
What is the significance of wailing in Jeremiah 9:18?
Wailing in Jeremiah 9:18 signifies deep sorrow and a call to acknowledge the gravity of the situation facing the nation. It serves as an expression of grief that is both personal and communal, emphasizing the emotional weight of loss due to sin. The act of wailing is a powerful reminder of the need for repentance and the urgency of seeking God's intervention in times of crisis.
Why does Jeremiah emphasize tears and water in this verse?
Jeremiah emphasizes tears and water in this verse to illustrate the depth of sorrow and the overwhelming nature of grief. The imagery of tears streaming down and eyelids gushing with water conveys the intensity of the emotional pain experienced by the people. It highlights the seriousness of their situation and the need for heartfelt lamentation, serving as a poignant reminder of the consequences of sin and the call for repentance.
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