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Jeremiah 51:17

Every man is brutish by his knowledge; every founder is confounded by the graven image: for his molten image is falsehood, and there is no breath in them.

Jeremiah 51:17 · King James Version

Meaning

In this verse, the concept of idolatry is explored, highlighting the foolishness of worshiping graven images and molten idols. The term "brutish" refers to the lack of intelligence or rationality in individuals who turn to these false gods. The verse warns against placing one's trust in man-made objects that have no power or life within them. It emphasizes the emptiness of idols and the deceptive nature of relying on them for guidance or protection. By contrasting human knowledge and craftsmanship with the lifelessness of idols, the verse underscores the futility of worshiping anything other than the true God. It serves as a reminder to put our faith in the living God who alone is worthy of our worship and devotion.

Theological Overview

This verse from Jeremiah 10:14 addresses the folly of idolatry and the worship of false gods. The word 'brutish' signifies the lack of understanding and wisdom, highlighting how human knowledge alone cannot bring true enlightenment. The term 'founder' refers to a metalworker or craftsman who creates idols, only to be confounded by the very images he himself has made. The theological interpretation here emphasizes the emptiness of worshiping man-made idols, as they are devoid of any real power or presence. The word study reveals the futility of relying on objects crafted by human hands, which lack the breath of life and are mere falsehoods. Ultimately, this verse serves as a warning against idol worship and the importance of seeking true spiritual understanding beyond the material world.

Jeremiah 51:17 in other translations

American Standard Version

Every man is become brutish [and is] without knowledge; every goldsmith is put to shame by his image; for his molten image is falsehood, and there is no breath in them.

World English Bible

Every man has become brutish without knowledge. Every goldsmith is disappointed by his image; for his molten image is falsehood, and there is no breath in them.

Douay-Rheims

Every man is become foolish by his knowledge: every founder is confounded by his idol, for what he hath cast is a lie, and there is no breath in them.

Geneva Bible (1599)

Euery man is a beast by his owne knowledge: euery founder is confounded by the grauen image: for his melting is but falsehood, and there is no breath therein.