Jeremiah 19:11
And shalt say unto them, Thus saith the LORD of hosts; Even so will I break this people and this city, as one breaketh a potter's vessel, that cannot be made whole again: and they shall bury them in Tophet, till there be no place to bury.
Jeremiah 19:11 · King James Version
Meaning
This verse from the book of Jeremiah portrays a grim image of destruction and judgment upon the people and the city. The reference to breaking a potter's vessel signifies a complete and irreparable destruction, emphasizing the severity of the punishment that God will bring upon them. The use of Tophet as a burial place further illustrates the harsh consequences of their actions, as it was traditionally a location associated with punishment and death. The imagery used in this verse serves as a warning to the people of the impending doom that awaits them if they continue to disobey and stray away from God's path. It highlights the consequences of their actions and serves as a reminder of the importance of staying faithful and obedient to God's commands. Overall, this verse serves as a powerful message of judgment and serves as a cautionary tale for those who choose to turn away from God.
Theological Overview
In this verse from the book of Jeremiah, the LORD of hosts delivers a message of destruction and judgment upon the people and city of Jerusalem. The imagery of breaking a potter's vessel signifies the complete and irreversible nature of the devastation that is to come. Just as a shattered pottery cannot be restored to its original form, so too will the people and city be broken beyond repair. The reference to Tophet, a place where the dead are buried, underscores the severity of the judgment that awaits. The message here is one of finality and utter devastation, leaving no room for the possibility of restoration. This verse serves as a stark warning of the consequences of disobedience and serves as a reminder of the LORD's sovereignty and power to bring about judgment upon those who have turned away from Him.
Jeremiah 19:11 in other translations
American Standard Version
and shalt say unto them, Thus saith Jehovah of hosts: Even so will I break this people and this city, as one breaketh a potter's vessel, that cannot be made whole again; and they shall bury in Topheth, till there be no place to bury.
World English Bible
and shall tell them, Thus says Yahweh of Armies: Even so will I break this people and this city, as one breaks a potter’s vessel, that can’t be made whole again; and they shall bury in Topheth, until there is no place to bury.
Douay-Rheims
And thou shalt say to them: Thus saith the Lord of hosts: Even so will I break this people, and this city, as the potter's vessel is broken, which cannot be made whole again: and they shall be buried in Topheth, because there is no other place to bury in.
Geneva Bible (1599)
And shalt say vnto them, Thus saith ye Lord of hostes, Euen so will I breake this people and this citie, as one breaketh a potters vessell, that cannot be made whole againe, and they shall bury them in Topheth till there be no place to bury.