Jeremiah 25:18 (KJV)

What does Jeremiah 25:18 mean?

Jeremiah 25:18 lists Jerusalem, the cities of Judah, their kings, and princes as those who have become ruined, shocking, and cursed, just as people see them at that time. The verse describes how these once-important places and leaders have been made desolate and objects of scorn as a result of judgment.

Jeremiah, speaking as a prophet to the people of Judah, is recounting the consequences that have come upon his nation because they turned away from God. The verse is part of a larger warning where Jeremiah explains that the destruction and shame now visible in Jerusalem and Judah are not accidents, but fulfillments of what was foretold due to their unfaithfulness.

The Hebrew behind Jeremiah 25:18

• "Desolation" (חָרְבָּה, ḥorbah) means a state of ruin or devastation. This word emphasizes the total breakdown and emptiness left behind in Jerusalem and Judah.
• "Astonishment" (שַׁמָּה, shammah) refers to something so shocking that it causes people to be appalled. The use of this word shows that the downfall of these places was so severe it surprised and disturbed onlookers.
• "Hissing" (שְׁרֵקָה, sherêqah) describes a gesture of scorn or mockery, like people whistling or hissing in disbelief or contempt when they see the ruins.
• "Curse" (קְלָלָה, qelalah) means something that has become an object of cursing or ill-speaking, highlighting that Jerusalem and Judah are now spoken of negatively and as examples of misfortune.

Why Jeremiah 25:18 matters

• This verse clears up that the devastation of Jerusalem and Judah was not random but a direct result of their actions and a fulfillment of prophetic warning.
• The verse highlights how public and complete the judgment was—so much so that other nations would react with shock and scorn.
• It connects to the wider passage by showing that God's warnings through Jeremiah were not empty threats; the consequences were real and visible "as it is this day."