Jeremiah 14:6 (KJV)

What does Jeremiah 14:6 mean?

Jeremiah 14:6 describes wild donkeys standing on the barren hills, desperately sniffing the wind like jackals or dragons, with their eyes failing from exhaustion because there is no grass to eat. The verse paints a vivid picture of the severe drought and its harsh effects on even the wild animals.

In this verse, the prophet Jeremiah is speaking about a time of intense drought in Judah. He uses the suffering of wild animals to show just how desperate the situation has become: even creatures that normally fend for themselves cannot find food or water. This image helps the people understand the seriousness of the judgment and the widespread suffering caused by the lack of rain.

The Hebrew behind Jeremiah 14:6

• "asses" (פֶּרֶא, pereʾ): This word refers specifically to wild donkeys, animals known for their toughness and ability to survive in harsh conditions. Their struggle here highlights just how extreme the drought is.
• "dragons" (תַּנִּין, tannin): Often translated as "jackals" or "dragons," this word points to wild, desert-dwelling creatures. The comparison suggests the donkeys are behaving in strange, desperate ways, sniffing the wind for any sign of moisture.
• "fail" (כָּלָה, kalah): This word means to be spent or to waste away. The donkeys’ eyes failing shows their utter exhaustion and hopelessness, emphasizing the severity of the famine.

Why Jeremiah 14:6 matters

• Jeremiah 14:6 clears up that the drought is not just a human problem; it devastates the entire land, including animals that are usually able to survive tough conditions.
• The verse emphasizes the totality of the disaster, showing that even the wildest and hardiest creatures are suffering, which underscores the seriousness of God’s judgment.
• This vivid description connects emotionally with the reader, helping them grasp the depth of the crisis facing Judah and the helplessness felt by all living things.