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Jeremiah 21:13

Behold, I am against thee, O inhabitant of the valley, and rock of the plain, saith the LORD; which say, Who shall come down against us? or who shall enter into our habitations?

Jeremiah 21:13 · King James Version

Meaning

The verse 'Behold, I am against thee, O inhabitant of the valley, and rock of the plain, saith the LORD; which say, Who shall come down against us? or who shall enter into our habitations?' serves as a warning from the Lord to those who are prideful and rely on their own strength and security. The Lord is declaring his opposition to those who feel invincible in their positions, thinking that no one can challenge or threaten them. By saying "I am against thee", the Lord is showing that he will not tolerate arrogance and self-sufficiency. The verse highlights the importance of humility and dependence on God, rather than boasting in our own abilities. It reminds us that ultimately, our security and protection come from the Lord, and we should not put our trust in our own strength. This verse serves as a call to repentance and a reminder to remain humble before God.

Theological Overview

In the theological interpretation of this verse from the book of Jeremiah, the phrase "I am against thee" is a powerful declaration of judgment from the LORD against the inhabitants of the valley and the rock of the plain. The use of the word "against" implies a position of opposition and enmity, indicating that the LORD is actively working against those who have become prideful and complacent in their security. The valley and rock symbolize places of perceived safety and stability, but the LORD's proclamation reveals that their false sense of security will not protect them from the judgment to come.

The phrase "Who shall come down against us?" reflects the arrogance and confidence of the inhabitants of the valley and the rock of the plain, as they believe that no one can threaten their safety or invade their dwellings. However, the LORD's response challenges their presumption and questions their confidence in their own strength and defenses. This verse serves as a warning against pride, self-reliance, and false security, reminding us that ultimate protection and security can only be found in the LORD. It calls us to humbly acknowledge our dependence on God and trust in His providence rather than in our own abilities or resources.

Jeremiah 21:13 in other translations

American Standard Version

Behold, I am against thee, O inhabitant of the valley, [and] of the rock of the plain, saith Jehovah; you that say, Who shall come down against us? or who shall enter into our habitations?

World English Bible

Behold, I am against you, O inhabitant of the valley, and of the rock of the plain, says Yahweh; you that say, Who shall come down against us? or who shall enter into our habitations?

Douay-Rheims

Behold I come to thee that dwellest in a valley upon a rock above a plain, saith the Lord: and you say: Who shall strike us and who shall enter into our houses?

Geneva Bible (1599)

Beholde, I come against thee, O inhabitant of the valley, and rocke of the plaine, saith the Lord, which say, Who shall come downe against vs? or who shall enter into our habitations?