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Book of Jeremiah - Chapter 13 - Verse 17

13:17
But if ye will not hear it, my soul shall weep in secret places for your pride; and mine eye shall weep sore, and run down with tears, because the Lord's flock is carried away captive.

Meaning

This verse from the book of Jeremiah expresses the prophet's deep sorrow and pain over the people's stubbornness and pride. Jeremiah is warning the people of the consequences of not heeding the word of the Lord and turning away from His commandments. The prophet's soul is so troubled that he weeps in secret places, mourning for the pride that has led the Lord's flock astray. The imagery of weeping sorely and tears running down signifies the depth of Jeremiah's grief and distress over the captivity that the people will face due to their disobedience. It serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of listening to God's guidance and following His ways to avoid the devastating consequences of pride and disobedience. The verse serves as a call to repentance and a plea for the people to turn back to the Lord before it's too late.

Theological Overview

In this verse, the prophet Jeremiah expresses deep sorrow and lamentation over the pride and disobedience of the people of Judah. The word 'weep' in this context conveys a sense of intense grief and sorrow, highlighting the emotional reaction of the prophet to the sinful behavior of the people. The word 'secret places' suggests that Jeremiah's weeping is not a public display but a private, heartfelt response to the spiritual condition of his people. By using the imagery of weeping eyes, the prophet emphasizes the pain and emotional toll that the disobedience of the people has on him. The mention of the Lord's flock being carried away captive signifies the consequences of the people's actions, as they will be taken into exile due to their sins. Overall, this verse serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of heeding God's word and the devastating effects of pride and disobedience in the eyes of the Lord.

American Standard Version

But if ye will not hear it, my soul shall weep in secret for [your] pride; and mine eye shall weep sore, and run down with tears, because Jehovah's flock is taken captive.
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