Jeremiah 9:5
And they will deceive every one his neighbour, and will not speak the truth: they have taught their tongue to speak lies, and weary themselves to commit iniquity.
Jeremiah 9:5 · King James Version
Meaning
This verse from the book of Jeremiah highlights the theme of deceit and falsehood among people. It talks about how individuals will deceive their neighbors and not speak the truth. This behavior is reinforced by teaching their tongues to speak lies, indicating a deliberate and calculated effort to propagate falsehoods. The act of wearying themselves to commit iniquity shows the extent to which people will go to engage in sinful behavior. The verse serves as a warning against the prevalence of dishonesty and the harmful consequences it can have on relationships and society as a whole. It emphasizes the importance of honesty and integrity in interactions with others, urging individuals to refrain from engaging in deceitful practices. By understanding the message of this verse, readers can reflect on the impact of their words and actions on those around them, striving to uphold truthfulness and righteousness in their daily lives.
Theological Overview
One theological interpretation of this verse from the book of Jeremiah highlights the destructive nature of deception and lies within interpersonal relationships. The verse emphasizes how people can become so entrenched in falsehoods that they deceive others and themselves in the process. By teaching their tongues to speak lies and actively pursuing sinful actions, individuals in this context are shown to be going to great lengths to engage in deceit and wrongdoing. This verse serves as a reminder of the dangers of dishonesty and the importance of upholding truth and integrity in our interactions with others.
Jeremiah 9:5 in other translations
American Standard Version
And they will deceive every one his neighbor, and will not speak the truth: they have taught their tongue to speak lies; they weary themselves to commit iniquity.
World English Bible
They will deceive everyone his neighbor, and will not speak the truth: they have taught their tongue to speak lies; they weary themselves to commit iniquity.
Douay-Rheims
And a man shall mock his brother, and they will not speak the truth: for they have taught their tongue to speak lies: they have laboured to commit iniquity.
Geneva Bible (1599)
And euery one wil deceiue his friende, and wil not speake the trueth: for they haue taught their tongues to speake lies, and take great paynes to do wickedly.