Jeremiah 14:5
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Jeremiah 14:5
5 Yea, the hind also calved in the field, and forsook it, because there was no grass.
Chapter Context
Jeremiah 14 is a prophetic oracle chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of love, grace, prayer. 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 demonstrates God's faithfulness despite human unfaithfulness. 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 14:5
5 Yea, the hind also calved in the field, and forsook it, because there was no grass.
Analysis
Even wildlife suffers: 'Yea, the hind also calved in the field, and forsook it, because there was no grass.' The hind (deer), known for devoted maternal care, abandons her newborn due to drought's severity. This demonstrates judgment's cosmic scope—innocent animals suffer due to human covenant breaking. The detail intensifies the tragedy: even strong maternal instincts yield to starvation. This recalls Romans 8:20-22, where creation groans under human sin's curse. Reformed theology recognizes that sin's consequences extend beyond sinners to affect all creation.
Historical Context
The hind was proverbially devoted to offspring (Job 39:1-4; Psalm 29:9). For such a creature to abandon its calf indicated extreme environmental stress, making the drought's severity vivid and undeniable.
Reflection
- How does human sin's effect on innocent creatures demonstrate sin's cosmic scope?
- What does creation's suffering under judgment teach about the seriousness of covenant breaking?
- How should awareness that our sins affect others motivate righteous living?
Cross-References
- Parallel theme: Psalms 29:9