Jeremiah 14:3
And their nobles have sent their little ones to the waters: they came to the pits, and found no water; they returned with their vessels empty; they were ashamed and confounded, and covered their heads.
Jeremiah 14:3 · King James Version
Meaning
In this verse, the author describes a situation where the nobles of a community have sent their children to fetch water from the wells, only to find them empty. This imagery reflects a sense of desperation and failure on the part of the community's leadership. The nobles, who are typically seen as the protectors and providers for their people, have failed in their responsibilities, leading to shame and disgrace. The act of sending the children to fetch water symbolizes the vulnerability and innocence of the young ones, who return empty-handed and ashamed. The covering of their heads is a sign of grief and remorse, as they come to terms with their inability to fulfill their duties.
Theological Overview
In this verse, the nobles of a certain community send their children to fetch water, but to their dismay, the children return with empty vessels. This scenario serves as a powerful metaphor for the consequences of relying on human strength and wisdom instead of turning to God for provision. The nobles' reliance on their own abilities leads to disappointment and shame as they come to the realization that their efforts have been in vain. This verse highlights the importance of trusting in God to meet our needs and the futility of seeking fulfillment in the things of the world. By covering their heads in shame, the nobles demonstrate their recognition of their folly and their need to repent and turn to God for sustenance.
Jeremiah 14:3 in other translations
American Standard Version
And their nobles send their little ones to the waters: they come to the cisterns, and find no water; they return with their vessels empty; they are put to shame and confounded, and cover their heads.
World English Bible
Their nobles send their little ones to the waters: they come to the cisterns, and find no water; they return with their vessels empty; they are disappointed and confounded, and cover their heads.
Douay-Rheims
The great ones sent their inferiors to the water: they came to draw, they found no water, they carried back their vessels empty: they were confounded and afflicted, and covered their heads.
Geneva Bible (1599)
And their nobles haue sent their inferiours to the water, who came to the welles, and founde no water: they returned with their vessels empty: they were ashamed and confounded, and couered their heads.