Jeremiah 12:13
They have sown wheat, but shall reap thorns: they have put themselves to pain, but shall not profit: and they shall be ashamed of your revenues because of the fierce anger of the LORD.
Jeremiah 12:13 · King James Version
Meaning
This verse from the book of Jeremiah serves as a warning about the consequences of disobedience and idolatry. The image of sowing wheat but reaping thorns signifies the idea that the actions of the people will not lead to the results they desire. Despite putting in effort and facing hardships, they will not profit from their labor. The mention of being ashamed of their revenues further emphasizes the disappointment and shame that will come from the Lord's fierce anger. Ultimately, the verse illustrates the idea that living in defiance of God's will leads to suffering and unfulfillment. It highlights the importance of remaining faithful and obedient to avoid facing the wrath of the Lord. This verse can serve as a reminder to readers to stay true to their faith and follow God's commandments in order to avoid the negative consequences of straying away from His path.
Theological Overview
On a theological level, this verse from the book of Jeremiah reflects the concept of divine retribution for disobedience. The imagery of sowing wheat but reaping thorns conveys the idea that the actions of the people have led to negative consequences. This can be interpreted as a reminder of the importance of living in accordance with the will of the Lord to avoid facing the repercussions of one's sins. The mention of putting oneself to pain but not profiting emphasizes the futility of going against the divine commandments. Additionally, the reference to being ashamed of revenues due to the fierce anger of the Lord highlights the ultimate power and authority of God over all aspects of life. This verse serves as a warning to individuals and communities about the consequences of straying from the path of righteousness and serves to reinforce the importance of obedience and repentance in the face of divine judgment.
Jeremiah 12:13 in other translations
American Standard Version
They have sown wheat, and have reaped thorns; they have put themselves to pain, and profit nothing: and ye shall be ashamed of your fruits, because of the fierce anger of Jehovah.
World English Bible
They have sown wheat, and have reaped thorns; they have put themselves to pain, and profit nothing: and you shall be ashamed of your fruits, because of the fierce anger of Yahweh.
Douay-Rheims
They have sown wheat, and reaped thorns: they have received an inheritance, and it shall not profit them: you shall be ashamed of your fruits, because of the fierce wrath of the Lord.
Geneva Bible (1599)
They haue sowen wheate, and reaped thornes: they were sicke, and had no profite: and they were ashamed of your fruites, because of the fierce wrath of the Lord.