Jeremiah 14:18
If I go forth into the field, then behold the slain with the sword! and if I enter into the city, then behold them that are sick with famine! yea, both the prophet and the priest go about into a land that they know not.
Jeremiah 14:18 · King James Version
Meaning
This verse from the book of Jeremiah highlights the devastating consequences of sin and disobedience to God's commandments. It paints a grim picture of a society in turmoil, where violence and famine are rampant. The imagery of seeing the slain in the field and the sick with famine in the city showcases the widespread suffering that occurs when people stray from God's path. Furthermore, the mention of both the prophet and the priest wandering in a land they are unfamiliar with suggests that even those who are meant to be spiritual leaders are caught up in the chaos and destruction wrought by sin.
In a broader context, this verse serves as a warning against the consequences of turning away from God and living in disobedience. It underscores the importance of staying true to one's faith and following God's teachings to avoid the pitfalls of a sinful life. The verse resonates with the theme of divine punishment for those who forsake God and emphasizes the need for individuals to stay rooted in their faith to avoid the tragic outcomes depicted in the passage. It serves as a powerful reminder of the consequences of straying from the path of righteousness and the importance of seeking God's guidance in all aspects of life.
Theological Overview
In this verse from the Book of Jeremiah, the prophet paints a grim picture of the consequences of sin and disobedience. The imagery of death and famine in the field and city conveys the idea that God's judgment is all-encompassing, affecting both rural and urban areas. The mention of the prophet and the priest emphasizes that even those who are supposed to be spiritual leaders are not exempt from the consequences of sin. The phrase "go about into a land that they know not" suggests that the people are entering into unfamiliar territory, symbolizing the spiritual darkness and separation from God that comes with disobedience. This verse serves as a warning to the people of Israel that they must turn away from their sinful ways and return to God before it is too late.
Jeremiah 14:18 in other translations
American Standard Version
If I go forth into the field, then, behold, the slain with the sword! and if I enter into the city, then, behold, they that are sick with famine! for both the prophet and the priest go about in the land, and have no knowledge.
World English Bible
If I go out into the field, then, behold, the slain with the sword! and if I enter into the city, then, behold, those who are sick with famine! for both the prophet and the priest go about in the land, and have no knowledge.
Douay-Rheims
If I go forth into the fields, behold the slain with the sword: and if I enter into the city, behold them that are consumed with famine. The prophet also and the priest are gone into a land which they knew not.
Geneva Bible (1599)
For if I go into the field, behold the slaine with the sworde: and if I enter into the citie, behold them that are sicke for hunger also: moreouer the Prophet also and the Priest go a wandring into a land that they know not.