Jeremiah 5:16 (KJV)

What does Jeremiah 5:16 mean?

Jeremiah 5:16 describes the enemy’s quiver—where arrows are kept—as being like an open grave, and says that all the enemy’s men are strong warriors. The verse paints a picture of a dangerous, powerful force threatening Jerusalem, emphasizing both their deadly weapons and their might.

The prophet Jeremiah is speaking to the people of Judah, warning them about a coming invasion as a result of their unfaithfulness to God. The “open sepulchre” image suggests that the enemy’s weapons bring death, and that there is no hiding or escape from their power. This verse is part of a larger warning about the consequences of ignoring God’s ways.

The Hebrew behind Jeremiah 5:16

• "quiver" (תַּלְיָה, talyah): This is the container for arrows. Comparing it to a grave highlights how the enemy’s weapons are ready to bring death.
• "open" (פָּתוּחַ, patuach): The word means “open” or “uncovered,” stressing that the threat is not hidden but exposed and looming.
• "sepulchre" (קֶבֶר, qeber): This word means “grave” or “tomb.” The comparison to a grave underlines the lethal nature of the enemy’s attack.
• "men" (גִּבּוֹר, gibbor): This word often means “mighty men” or “warriors.” It emphasizes the strength and skill of the invaders.

Why Jeremiah 5:16 matters

• Jeremiah 5:16 clears up that the threat facing Judah is not just about numbers, but about the deadly intent and strength of the invaders.
• The verse uses vivid imagery to show that the enemy’s weapons are not just tools of war, but instruments of death—like an open grave, ready to claim lives.
• In the wider context, this verse helps the reader feel the seriousness of Jeremiah’s warning and the real danger of ignoring God’s call to repentance.