Jeremiah 43:13
He shall break also the images of Bethshemesh, that is in the land of Egypt; and the houses of the gods of the Egyptians shall he burn with fire.
Jeremiah 43:13 · King James Version
Meaning
According to the verse, "He shall break also the images of Bethshemesh, that is in the land of Egypt; and the houses of the gods of the Egyptians shall he burn with fire." This verse refers to the destruction of the idols and false gods worshiped by the Egyptians. In the context of the Bible, idolatry is seen as a violation of the first commandment, which prohibits the worship of any other gods besides the one true God. The breaking of images and burning of the houses of the gods symbolizes the judgment and punishment that God will bring upon those who engage in idolatry. It serves as a reminder of the seriousness of turning away from the true God and worshiping false idols. This verse highlights the importance of faithfulness and loyalty to God, and the consequences of straying from His commandments.
Theological Overview
When looking at the theological interpretation of the verse, "He shall break also the images of Bethshemesh, that is in the land of Egypt; and the houses of the gods of the Egyptians shall he burn with fire," we see a clear demonstration of God's power over false gods and idols. Bethshemesh was a Canaanite fertility god, and the images associated with this deity were symbols of worship and devotion. By breaking these images and burning the houses of the Egyptian gods with fire, God is asserting His authority and supremacy over all idols and false gods. This act signifies the destruction of idolatry and the establishment of monotheism. It serves as a reminder to the people of Egypt and all believers that there is only one true God who deserves our worship and allegiance. The verse also emphasizes the righteousness and justice of God in condemning idolatry and purifying His people from all forms of false worship.
Jeremiah 43:13 in other translations
American Standard Version
He shall also break the pillars of Beth-shemesh, that is in the land of Egypt; and the houses of the gods of Egypt shall he burn with fire.
World English Bible
He shall also break the pillars of Beth Shemesh, that is in the land of Egypt; and the houses of the gods of Egypt shall he burn with fire.
Douay-Rheims
And he shall break the statues of the house of the sun, that are in the land of Egypt; and the temples of the gods of Egypt he shall burn with fire.
Geneva Bible (1599)
He shall breake also ye images of Beth-shemesh, that is in the lande of Egypt, and the houses of the gods of the Egyptians shall he burne with fire.