Jeremiah 14:2
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Jeremiah 14:2
2 Judah mourneth, and the gates thereof languish; they are black unto the ground; and the cry of Jerusalem is gone up.
Chapter Context
Jeremiah 14 is a prophetic oracle chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of faith, discipleship, obedience. 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 establishes important theological principles that resonate throughout Scripture. 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 14:2
2 Judah mourneth, and the gates thereof languish; they are black unto the ground; and the cry of Jerusalem is gone up.
Analysis
The drought's effects are national: 'Judah mourneth, and the gates thereof languish; they are black unto the ground.' The 'gates' represent cities and places of commerce and justice, now failing. The phrase 'black unto the ground' suggests mourning attire (sackcloth) or drought-parched earth. The consequence extends to the national identity: 'and the cry of Jerusalem is gone up,' indicating prayer born of desperation. This verse shows that God uses physical crises to drive His people to prayer. The comprehensive nature (from gates to Jerusalem itself) reveals that no aspect of national life escapes drought's impact.
Historical Context
City gates served as commercial centers and courts. Their 'languishing' meant economic and judicial systems failing. Drought affected all social classes, creating universal crisis that should have driven corporate repentance.
Reflection
- How does God use physical crises to drive people to prayer and dependence?
- What is the relationship between corporate suffering and corporate prayer?
- How should economic and agricultural disasters be interpreted theologically?
Cross-References
- Parallel theme: Jeremiah 8:21, 11:11, 1 Samuel 5:12, Isaiah 3:26, Zechariah 7:13