Therefore thou shalt say this word unto them; Let mine eyes run down with tears night and day, and let them not cease: for the virgin daughter of my people is broken with a great breach, with a very grievous blow.
JEREMIAH 14:17KJVWhat does Jeremiah 14:17 mean?
Jeremiah 14:17 describes God instructing Jeremiah to speak words of deep sorrow over the people of Judah, saying that his eyes overflow with tears day and night because the people—called the "virgin daughter"—have suffered a terrible and crushing disaster. The verse shows the depth of grief over the nation's brokenness and the seriousness of their suffering.
In this verse, God is speaking to Jeremiah during a time of national crisis, likely a drought and its consequences. Jeremiah is told to express ongoing, unstoppable grief, symbolized by tears that do not cease. The phrase "virgin daughter of my people" highlights the innocence and vulnerability of Judah, while the words for "broken" and "grievous blow" emphasize the severity of what has happened to them.
The Hebrew behind Jeremiah 14:17
- "Virgin" (בְּתוּלָה, bətulah): This word refers to a young woman who has not been married, often used as a symbol of purity or innocence. Calling Judah the "virgin daughter" underlines her vulnerability and the tragedy of her downfall.
- "Broken" (שָׁבַר, shavár): This verb means to be shattered or destroyed. It paints a picture of total devastation, not just a minor setback.
- "Breach" (שֶׁבֶר, shever): This noun means a break or fracture, often used for a wound or disaster. The "great breach" suggests a wound so severe that it cannot be easily healed.
- "Blow" (מַכָּה, makkah): This word means a wound or a strike, often used for physical or emotional injury. The "very grievous blow" intensifies the sense of pain and suffering.
Why Jeremiah 14:17 matters
- Jeremiah 14:17 clears up the idea that God or His prophet is emotionally distant; instead, it shows a deep, personal sorrow for the people's suffering.
- The verse emphasizes the seriousness of Judah's situation by using strong words for brokenness and pain, helping the reader grasp the full weight of the disaster.
- In the wider passage, this verse connects Jeremiah's tears with God's own grief, highlighting that the judgment is not cold or indifferent but comes with real sorrow over what has happened to the people.