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Book of Jeremiah - Chapter 7 - Verse 16

7:16
Therefore pray not thou for this people, neither lift up cry nor prayer for them, neither make intercession to me: for I will not hear thee.

Meaning

This particular verse from the Bible, found in Jeremiah 7:16, conveys a message of divine judgment. In this passage, God instructs Jeremiah not to pray for the people of Judah because their hearts are hardened and they have turned away from God. The Lord has decided not to listen to any intercessions made on their behalf, as their actions and deeds have caused them to stray too far from His path. This verse serves as a warning to the people of Judah, showcasing the consequences of their sinful behavior and highlighting the importance of repentance and redemption. It reveals God's righteous judgment and the severity of His response to disobedience. By understanding this verse in its context, readers can reflect on the significance of seeking forgiveness and staying faithful to God's teachings to avoid facing similar consequences in their own lives.

Theological Overview

Some theologians interpret the verse 'Therefore pray not thou for this people, neither lift up cry nor prayer for them, neither make intercession to me: for I will not hear thee.' as a warning from God to Jeremiah not to intercede on behalf of the people of Judah because of their persistent disobedience and rejection of God's ways. This verse reflects God's judgment and decision to not listen to any further prayers or pleas for mercy on behalf of the people due to their unrepentant hearts. The word 'pray' in this context can also be translated as 'petition' or 'plea for mercy,' emphasizing the severity of the situation. This passage highlights the importance of obedience and faithfulness to God's commands, as well as the consequences of persistent sin and rebellion. It serves as a sobering reminder of the reality of God's judgment and the need for repentance and faith in Him.

American Standard Version

Therefore pray not thou for this people, neither lift up cry nor prayer for them, neither make intercession to me; for I will not hear thee.
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