Jeremiah 6:24
We have heard the fame thereof: our hands wax feeble: anguish hath taken hold of us, and pain, as of a woman in travail.
Jeremiah 6:24 · King James Version
Meaning
Upon hearing the fame of the impending judgment and destruction, the people express their fear and helplessness in the face of the looming disaster. The phrase "our hands wax feeble" indicates their physical weakness and inability to withstand the events that are unfolding. The mention of anguish and pain likened to that of a woman in labor highlights the intense emotional and physical turmoil they are experiencing. This imagery conveys the overwhelming sense of distress and impending doom that has gripped the people as they anticipate the consequences of their actions. The verse serves as a powerful reminder of the consequences of sin and the importance of turning to God in times of trouble to find strength and solace.
Theological Overview
In this verse, the focus is on the overwhelming sense of fear and anxiety experienced by the people upon hearing about a threatening situation. The phrase "our hands wax feeble" suggests a feeling of weakness and powerlessness in the face of this impending danger. The mention of "anguish" and "pain" liken the distress to that of a woman in labor, emphasizing the intensity of the emotions felt by the people. This verse highlights the human experience of fear and vulnerability when faced with uncertainty and adversity. The theological interpretation of this verse may point to the innate need for trust in a higher power during times of distress, as well as the reminder that even in moments of weakness, there is always hope and strength to be found in faith.
Jeremiah 6:24 in other translations
American Standard Version
We have heard the report thereof; our hands wax feeble: anguish hath taken hold of us, [and] pangs as of a woman in travail.
World English Bible
We have heard its report; our hands become feeble: anguish has taken hold of us, and pains as of a woman in labor.
Douay-Rheims
We have heard the fame thereof, our hands grow feeble: anguish hath taken hold of us, as a woman in labour.
Geneva Bible (1599)
We haue heard their fame, and our handes waxe feeble sorrowe is come vpon vs, as the sorrowe of a woman in trauaile.