Jeremiah 20:5 (KJV)

What does Jeremiah 20:5 mean?

Jeremiah 20:5 describes how God will allow all the wealth, hard work, and treasures of Jerusalem—including the riches of its kings—to be handed over to the city’s enemies, who will plunder these things and take them away to Babylon. This verse is a warning of total loss and defeat for Jerusalem because of its unfaithfulness.

In this verse, God is speaking through the prophet Jeremiah to warn the people of Jerusalem about the coming Babylonian invasion. The verse emphasizes that nothing of value—whether the city’s strength, labor, or royal treasures—will be spared; all will be given into enemy hands. The mention of Babylon highlights the specific threat facing Judah at this time in history.

The Hebrew behind Jeremiah 20:5

• The word “strength” (חֵיל, ḥēyl) often means wealth, resources, or military might. Here, it shows that not only physical treasures but also the city’s defenses and resources will be lost.
• “Labours” (יְגִיעַ, yəgi‘a) refers to the products of hard work or toil, underscoring that even what people have worked hardest for will be taken.
• “Treasures” (אוֹצָר, ’ōtsār) points to stored wealth or valuables, making clear that nothing hidden or set aside for safety will escape.
• “Spoil” (בָּזַז, bazaz) means to plunder or loot, stressing the violent and complete nature of what will happen to Jerusalem’s possessions.

Why Jeremiah 20:5 matters

• This verse clarifies that Jerusalem’s loss will be total—every kind of wealth and achievement will be taken, not just military defeat.
• It connects Jeremiah’s warning to the real historical threat of Babylon, grounding the prophecy in a specific moment and enemy.
• The verse highlights the seriousness of the consequences for ignoring God’s warnings, setting the stage for the events that unfold in the rest of Jeremiah’s message.