Jeremiah 10:14
Every man is brutish in his knowledge: every founder is confounded by the graven image: for his molten image is falsehood, and there is no breath in them.
Jeremiah 10:14 · King James Version
Meaning
This verse from the Book of Jeremiah highlights the folly of relying on man-made idols for guidance and wisdom. It speaks to the ignorance of humanity, emphasizing how even the most knowledgeable individuals are mere brutes when compared to the wisdom and understanding that God provides. The verse condemns the practice of idol worship, pointing out that those who create and worship graven images will ultimately be confounded and disappointed. The passage emphasizes the emptiness of false idols, noting that they are devoid of life and unable to offer any real guidance or support. By pointing out the hollowness of idols and the limitations of human knowledge, the verse serves as a reminder to turn to God for true wisdom and understanding.
Theological Overview
In this verse, the prophet Jeremiah is denouncing the practice of idolatry among the people of Judah. He declares that every man is lacking in true knowledge when it comes to worshiping false idols. The term "brutish" here refers to a lack of understanding and wisdom in recognizing the divine. The word "founder" refers to those who craft and create these graven images, which are idols made of metal or stone. Jeremiah emphasizes that these idols are falsehoods, as they have no power or life in them. The theological interpretation of this verse highlights the danger of worshiping false gods and emphasizes the importance of true knowledge and understanding in worshiping the one true God. It serves as a reminder for believers to avoid idolatry and to put their trust in the living God who alone has the power to bring life and salvation.
Jeremiah 10:14 in other translations
American Standard Version
Every man is become brutish [and is] without knowledge; every goldsmith is put to shame by his graven image; for his molten image is falsehood, and there is no breath in them.
World English Bible
Every man has become brutish and without knowledge; every goldsmith is disappointed by his engraved image; for his molten image is falsehood, and there is no breath in them.
Douay-Rheims
Every man is become a fool for knowledge, every artist is confounded in his graven idol: for what he hath cast is false, and there is no spirit in them.
Geneva Bible (1599)
Euery man is a beast by his owne knowledge: euery founder is confounded by the grauen image: for his melting is but falsehood, and there is no breath therein.