Jeremiah 50:38
A drought is upon her waters; and they shall be dried up: for it is the land of graven images, and they are mad upon their idols.
Jeremiah 50:38 · King James Version
Meaning
This verse from the book of Jeremiah provides a vivid description of the spiritual condition of a particular land. The mention of a drought indicates a severe lack of spiritual nourishment and guidance. The phrase "land of graven images" suggests a land where false idols and material possessions are worshipped in place of the one true God. The people in this land have strayed from the path of righteousness and have become obsessed with their idols, to the point of madness. The drying up of the waters symbolizes the complete spiritual desolation and emptiness that comes from turning away from God and placing faith in false gods. Ultimately, this verse serves as a warning against the dangers of idolatry and the importance of staying faithful to the true teachings of God.
Theological Overview
In this verse from the book of Jeremiah, the prophet is describing a drought that has befallen the land. The theological interpretation of this verse suggests that the drought is a punishment from God for the people's idolatry. The land is filled with graven images, which are objects of worship made by human hands, rather than the true God. The people have become so enamored with their idols that they have lost sight of God's commandments and have turned away from Him. As a result, God has brought a drought upon the land, drying up its waters as a sign of His judgment. This verse serves as a warning against the dangers of idolatry and the consequences that can follow when we stray from God's will. It reminds us of the importance of putting our trust in the one true God and worshiping Him alone.
Jeremiah 50:38 in other translations
American Standard Version
A drought is upon her waters, and they shall be dried up; for it is a land of graven images, and they are mad over idols.
World English Bible
A drought is on her waters, and they shall be dried up; for it is a land of engraved images, and they are mad over idols.
Douay-Rheims
A drought upon her waters, and they shall be dried up: because it is a land of idols, and they glory in monstrous things.
Geneva Bible (1599)
A drought is vpon her waters, and they shall be dried vp: for it is the lande of grauen images, and they dote vpon their idoles.