Jeremiah 7:29
Cut off thine hair, O Jerusalem, and cast it away, and take up a lamentation on high places; for the LORD hath rejected and forsaken the generation of his wrath.
Jeremiah 7:29 · King James Version
Meaning
This verse from the book of Jeremiah speaks to the sorrow and rejection that the people of Jerusalem are experiencing due to their disobedience and sin. The admonition to "cut off thine hair" is a symbolic act of mourning and repentance, as hair was seen as a symbol of beauty and strength. By casting it away, the people of Jerusalem are demonstrating their deep sorrow and regret for their actions. The call to "take up a lamentation on high places" further emphasizes the magnitude of their grief and the need for public acknowledgment of their sins. The verse concludes with the statement that the LORD has "rejected and forsaken the generation of his wrath," highlighting the severity of God's judgment upon the people for their wickedness. Overall, this verse serves as a powerful reminder of the consequences of turning away from God and the importance of repentance and seeking forgiveness.
Theological Overview
In this verse from the Book of Jeremiah, the prophet instructs the people of Jerusalem to cut off their hair and cast it away as a symbol of mourning and distress. The act of cutting off one's hair was a common expression of grief and repentance in ancient Israelite culture. By calling the people to take up a lamentation on high places, Jeremiah emphasizes the seriousness of the situation and the need for a public display of mourning. The rejection and forsaking of the generation by the Lord is a consequence of their disobedience and rebellion against God. The phrase "the generation of his wrath" highlights the divine judgment that has fallen upon the people as a result of their sinful actions. Overall, this verse serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of repentance and the consequences of turning away from God.
Jeremiah 7:29 in other translations
American Standard Version
Cut off thy hair, [O Jerusalem], and cast it away, and take up a lamentation on the bare heights; for Jehovah hath rejected and forsaken the generation of his wrath.
World English Bible
Cut off your hair, and throw it away, and take up a lamentation on the bare heights; for Yahweh has rejected and forsaken the generation of his wrath.
Douay-Rheims
Cut off thy hair, and cast it away: and take up a lamentation on high: for the Lord hath rejected, and forsaken the generation of his wrath,
Geneva Bible (1599)
Cut off thine heare, O Ierusalem, and cast it away, and take vp a complaint on the hie places: for the Lord hath reiected and forsaken the generation of his wrath.