Book of Jeremiah - Chapter 47 - Verse 5

Jeremiah 47:5 is a verse from the Old Testament that speaks of the destruction of the ancient Philistine cities of Gaza and Ashkelon. The mention of "baldness" in Gaza symbolizes the shame and humiliation that will come upon the city as a result of its impending destruction. Likewise, the cutting off of Ashkelon and the remnant of their valley signifies the complete devastation that will befall these once prosperous cities. The question posed at the end of the verse, "how long wilt thou cut thyself?", is a rhetorical one that emphasizes the futility of mourning or grieving over the inevitable destruction that will come upon these cities. The verse serves as a reminder of the consequences of disobedience and the judgment that awaits those who turn away from God. As such, it is a stark warning against pride, arrogance, and sin, and a call to repentance and obedience to God's will.

When examining the verse "Baldness is come upon Gaza; Ashkelon is cut off with the remnant of their valley: how long wilt thou cut thyself?", it is important to delve into the theological interpretation and word studies to gain a deeper understanding. The mention of "baldness" in this context could symbolize mourning or devastation, as shaving one's head was a sign of grief in ancient Near Eastern cultures. The reference to Ashkelon being "cut off" may suggest destruction or isolation from the surrounding valleys. Additionally, the question posed about cutting oneself could be a rhetorical plea for the mourning to end, as self-harm was sometimes a form of mourning in ancient cultures. Overall, this verse paints a picture of despair and devastation, highlighting the consequences of disobedience and the need for repentance.