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Book of Jeremiah - Chapter 44 - Verse 18

44:18
But since we left off to burn incense to the queen of heaven, and to pour out drink offerings unto her, we have wanted all things, and have been consumed by the sword and by the famine.

Meaning

According to this verse, the people have stopped worshiping the queen of heaven, a pagan deity, and as a result, they have faced challenges such as lacking necessities, being consumed by violence, and experiencing famine. The queen of heaven was a fertility goddess worshipped by many in ancient times. By choosing to abandon this idol and the rituals associated with it, the people have lost favor with the deity they once believed would provide for their needs. This verse serves as a cautionary tale about the consequences of turning away from true worship and seeking fulfillment from false gods. It emphasizes the importance of staying faithful to one's beliefs and avoiding idolatry to avoid hardship and suffering. By examining this verse in its biblical context, readers can gain insight into the dangers of straying from the path of righteousness and the importance of staying true to one's faith.

Theological Overview

Jeremiah 44:18 reflects the consequences faced by the ancient Israelites for turning away from worshipping the true God and instead offering incense and drink offerings to the queen of heaven. The theological interpretation of this verse highlights the destructive nature of idolatry and the repercussions of forsaking the worship of the one true God. In studying the verse, it is essential to understand the warning against the worship of false gods and the importance of remaining faithful to the Lord. The word studies in this verse elucidate the significance of 'burn incense' and 'pour out drink offerings' in the context of idolatry, emphasizing the severity of deviating from the worship of God alone. By delving into the theological implications and word meanings of this passage, readers can glean valuable insights into the consequences of turning away from God and the importance of steadfast devotion to Him.

American Standard Version

But since we left off burning incense to the queen of heaven, and pouring out drink-offerings unto her, we have wanted all things, and have been consumed by the sword and by the famine.
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