Jeremiah 13:16
Give glory to the LORD your God, before he cause darkness, and before your feet stumble upon the dark mountains, and, while ye look for light, he turn it into the shadow of death, and make it gross darkness.
Jeremiah 13:16 · King James Version
Meaning
In this verse, the speaker is urging the audience to give glory to the Lord their God before it is too late. The imagery of darkness and stumbling on dark mountains is used to convey the consequences of neglecting to acknowledge and honor God. By not acknowledging God and seeking His light, one runs the risk of being engulfed in the shadow of death and experiencing a deep darkness. This verse serves as a warning to prioritize and worship God while there is still time, before His judgment comes upon those who fail to do so. It emphasizes the importance of recognizing God's power and authority in order to avoid spiritual darkness and despair. By acknowledging and giving glory to the Lord, one can avoid the bleak outcomes described in this verse and instead walk in the light of His grace and mercy.
Theological Overview
In this verse, the theme of giving glory to the Lord your God is emphasized as a way to prevent darkness and stumbling in life. The theological interpretation of this verse suggests that by acknowledging and honoring God in all aspects of life, believers can avoid spiritual darkness and the consequences of turning away from Him. The image of stumbling upon dark mountains while looking for light symbolizes the challenges and hardships that can arise when individuals seek guidance and direction outside of God's will. This verse serves as a reminder to trust in God and seek His light, as turning away from Him can lead to spiritual death and despair. Word studies on terms like "darkness" and "shadow of death" further emphasize the contrast between God's light and the consequences of straying from His path. Overall, this verse highlights the importance of giving glory to God and walking in His light to avoid falling into darkness and spiritual death.
Jeremiah 13:16 in other translations
American Standard Version
Give glory to Jehovah your God, before he cause darkness, and before your feet stumble upon the dark mountains, and, while ye look for light, he turn it into the shadow of death, and make it gross darkness.
World English Bible
Give glory to Yahweh your God, before he causes darkness, and before your feet stumble on the dark mountains, and, while you look for light, he turns it into the shadow of death, and makes it gross darkness.
Douay-Rheims
Give ye glory to the Lord your God, before it be dark, and before your feet stumble upon the dark mountains: you shall look for light, and he will turn it into the shadow of death, and into darkness.
Geneva Bible (1599)
Giue glory to the Lord your God before he bring darknes, and or euer your feete stumble in the darke mountaines, and whiles you look for light, he turne it into the shadowe of death and make it as darkenesse.