Jeremiah 14:17
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Jeremiah 14:17
17 Therefore thou shalt say this word unto them; Let mine eyes run down with tears night and day, and let them not cease: for the virgin daughter of my people is broken with a great breach, with a very grievous blow.
Chapter Context
Jeremiah 14 is a prophetic oracle chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of covenant, sacrifice, mercy. Written during the final years of Judah and early exile (c. 627-580 BCE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: Prophesied during Judah's final years as Babylon became the dominant power.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-12: Development of key themes
- Verses 13-20: Central message and teachings
- Verses 21-22: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it foreshadows Christ's work through typology and prophetic elements. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within Jeremiah and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
Jeremiah 14:17
17 Therefore thou shalt say this word unto them; Let mine eyes run down with tears night and day, and let them not cease: for the virgin daughter of my people is broken with a great breach, with a very grievous blow.
Analysis
Jeremiah is commanded to express appropriate grief: 'Therefore thou shalt say this word unto them; Let mine eyes run down with tears night and day, and let them not cease.' The continuous weeping ('night and day,' 'let them not cease') reflects the tragedy's magnitude. The reason: 'for the virgin daughter of my people is broken with a great breach, with a very grievous blow.' The metaphor 'virgin daughter' emphasizes innocence and potential now destroyed. The 'great breach' and 'grievous blow' depict comprehensive devastation. This verse shows that prophetic ministry includes grief over God's judgments, not joy in vindication. True servants of God weep over judgment even when it's deserved and necessary.
Historical Context
Jeremiah was known as 'the weeping prophet' for his grief over Judah's coming destruction. His sorrow demonstrated that faithful prophetic ministry includes compassion for those under judgment.
Reflection
- How should those who proclaim God's judgment also grieve over its necessity?
- What does the metaphor 'virgin daughter' teach about unfulfilled potential destroyed by sin?
- How can we maintain both conviction about God's righteous judgments and compassion for those experiencing them?
Word Studies
- Word: דָּבָר (Davar) H1697 - Word, thing, matter
Cross-References
- Word: Isaiah 37:22
- Parallel theme: Jeremiah 8:21, 9:1, 10:19, 13:17, Psalms 39:10, Lamentations 2:13