Jeremiah 5:6
Wherefore a lion out of the forest shall slay them, and a wolf of the evenings shall spoil them, a leopard shall watch over their cities: every one that goeth out thence shall be torn in pieces: because their transgressions are many, and their backslidings are increased.
Jeremiah 5:6 · King James Version
Meaning
This verse serves as a warning from the prophet Jeremiah to the people of Israel about the consequences of their constant disobedience and rebellion against God. The imagery of wild animals such as lions, wolves, and leopards represents the coming destruction and judgment that will fall upon the Israelites. The mention of a lion out of the forest, a wolf of the evenings, and a leopard watching over their cities symbolizes the brutal demise that awaits those who continue to sin without repentance. The vivid description of being torn in pieces emphasizes the severity of the punishment that will be inflicted upon the people of Israel for their transgressions and increasing backslidings. It serves as a call to repentance and a reminder of the importance of staying faithful to God to avoid facing the devastating consequences of sin.
Theological Overview
In this verse, the imagery of wild animals – a lion, a wolf, and a leopard – is used to describe the devastating consequences of the people's sin. The theological interpretation of this passage points to God's judgment upon the Israelites for their numerous transgressions. The lion symbolizes power and destruction, the wolf represents stealth and cunning, and the leopard signifies watchfulness and quick attack. This portrayal of predatory animals reflects the severity of God's punishment upon those who have turned away from Him. The word "backslidings" implies a deliberate turning away from God, indicating a pattern of repeated rebellion. As a result of their disobedience, the people will face destruction and death, torn apart by the very forces of nature that God created. This passage serves as a warning to all who stray from the path of righteousness, emphasizing the importance of repentance and turning back to God before it's too late.
Jeremiah 5:6 in other translations
American Standard Version
Wherefore a lion out of the forest shall slay them, a wolf of the evenings shall destroy them, a leopard shall watch against their cities; every one that goeth out thence shall be torn in pieces; because their transgressions are many, [and] their backslidings are increased.
World English Bible
Therefore a lion out of the forest shall kill them, a wolf of the evenings shall destroy them, a leopard shall watch against their cities; everyone who goes out there shall be torn in pieces; because their transgressions are many, and their backsliding is increased.
Douay-Rheims
Wherefore a lion out of the wood hath slain them, a wolf in the evening hath spoiled them, a leopard watcheth for their cities: every one that shall go out thence shall be taken, because their transgressions are multiplied, their rebellions are strengthened.
Geneva Bible (1599)
Wherefore a lyon out of the forest shall slay them, and a wolfe of the wildernesse shall destroy them: a leopard shall watch ouer their cities: euery one that goeth out thence, shall be torne in pieces, because their trespasses are many, and their rebellions are increased.