Jeremiah 15:9
She that hath borne seven languisheth: she hath given up the ghost; her sun is gone down while it was yet day: she hath been ashamed and confounded: and the residue of them will I deliver to the sword before their enemies, saith the LORD.
Jeremiah 15:9 · King James Version
Meaning
This verse speaks of a woman who has borne seven children and is now suffering greatly. The imagery used in this verse symbolizes the devastation and despair that can come upon a person. The phrase "she hath given up the ghost" indicates a sense of hopelessness and defeat. The mention of her sun going down while it is still day represents a premature ending or untimely death. The woman is described as feeling ashamed and confounded, highlighting the emotional turmoil she is experiencing. The statement that the remainder of her children will be delivered to the sword before their enemies signifies a continuation of the tragedy and loss that she is facing. Ultimately, this verse serves as a cautionary tale about the consequences of disobedience and the harsh judgment that may come from the Lord.
Theological Overview
In this verse from the book of Jeremiah, we see a vivid depiction of the suffering and devastation that has befallen Israel. The phrase "She that hath borne seven languisheth" can be interpreted as a reference to the nation of Israel, which is described as a mother who has borne seven children but is now weak and suffering. The number seven often symbolizes completeness or fullness, suggesting that Israel has reached a point of complete despair. The mention of the sun going down while it is still day signifies a premature end to their prosperity and blessings. The shame and humiliation experienced by Israel are evident as they are delivered to the sword of their enemies by the Lord. This verse serves as a solemn reminder of the consequences of turning away from God and the importance of remaining faithful to His commandments.
Jeremiah 15:9 in other translations
American Standard Version
She that hath borne seven languisheth; she hath given up the ghost; her sun is gone down while it was yet day; she hath been put to shame and confounded: and the residue of them will I deliver to the sword before their enemies, saith Jehovah.
World English Bible
She who has borne seven languishes; she has given up the spirit; her sun is gone down while it was yet day; she has been disappointed and confounded: and their residue will I deliver to the sword before their enemies, says Yahweh.
Douay-Rheims
She that hath borne seven is become weak, her soul hath fainted away: her sun is gone down, while it was yet day: she is confounded, and ashamed: and the residue of them I will give up to the sword in the sight of their enemies, saith the Lord.
Geneva Bible (1599)
Shee that hath borne seuen, hath bene made weake: her heart hath failed: the sunne hath failed her, whiles it was day: she hath bene confounded, and ashamed, and the residue of them will I deliuer vnto the sworde before their enemies, sayth the Lord.