Book of Jeremiah - Chapter 51 - Verse 23

This particular verse of the Bible speaks about the consequences of disobedience and sin. It illustrates how God will bring judgment upon both the leaders and the people of a nation who have turned away from Him. The imagery of breaking in pieces the shepherd and his flock, the husbandman and his yoke of oxen, as well as the captains and rulers, conveys the severity of the punishment that God will bring upon those who have led others astray. The shepherd represents religious leaders, the husbandman symbolizes those who work the land, and the captains and rulers indicate those in positions of power and authority. This verse serves as a warning to all individuals, regardless of their societal status, that they will be held accountable for their actions and influence on others. Ultimately, it emphasizes the importance of staying faithful to God and following His commandments to avoid facing such severe consequences.

This verse from the book of Jeremiah depicts a powerful image of destruction and judgment. The word "break" in this context carries a weighty significance, pointing towards a complete annihilation or shattering of the different aspects of society - the shepherd and his flock, the husbandman and his yoke of oxen, as well as captains and rulers. The theological interpretation of this verse reflects a divine judgment against those who have strayed from righteousness and have oppressed the innocent. It serves as a warning to those in positions of power to act justly and with compassion, lest they face the consequences of their actions. The imagery of breaking in pieces conveys a sense of inevitability and finality, emphasizing the severity of God's judgement. In looking at the word studies within this verse, the repeated phrase "with thee" reinforces the idea that these acts of destruction are intimately connected to the one being addressed, emphasizing personal responsibility for the outcomes of their actions. Overall, this verse serves as a sobering reminder of the consequences of disobedience and the importance of living in accordance with God's will.