Definition: Therefore pray not thou for this people, neither lift up a cry or prayer for them: for I will not hear [them] in the time that they cry unto me for their trouble.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Jeremiah 11:14. It's a really powerful and difficult one, and it speaks to a deep sense of frustration and disappointment with a specific group of people. Here’s a simplified explanation: What it says: “Therefore pray not thou for this people, neither lift up a cry or prayer for them: for I will not hear [them] in the time that they cry unto me for their trouble.” Let's unpack it piece by piece: “Jeremiah 11:14” : This is the verse itself. It’s from a book called Jeremiah, and it’s a really important part of his prophetic writings – essentially, he’s speaking as a prophet, someone who receives visions and messages from God. “Therefore pray not thou for this people…” - This is the core of the message. The author is saying don't pray for them. It's a direct command against actively seeking their help or comfort. “…neither lift up a cry or prayer for them…” – This clarifies that it’s not just about wishing them well; it’s about not offering any kind of support, pleading with God, or acknowledging their suffering. It's a rejection of any attempt to help. “for I will not hear [them] in the time that they cry unto me for their trouble.” – This is the most crucial part. It’s saying God will not listen to their cries. The word "hear" means to listen, to understand, and to respond. The phrase “in the time that they cry unto me” means during a specific period of time when they are experiencing hardship or trouble. What's the big takeaway? This verse expresses a deep feeling of disappointment and perhaps even anger towards a group of people – likely the Israelites in ancient Judah. They were facing a period of intense oppression, rebellion, and suffering. The author feels like God is deliberately ignoring their pleas for help, and he's essentially saying that God doesn’t care about their pain. Why is it significant? This passage is often interpreted as a challenge to the Israelites to turn away from their wickedness and seek a more righteous path. It highlights a tension between God's concern for his people and their disobedience. It speaks to themes of judgment, righteousness, and the importance of listening to God’s voice – even when it doesn’t seem like He’s listening. In short: Jeremiah is expressing frustration with a group of people who are causing distress, and he's telling them to stop trying to help them – because God isn't willing to listen to their cries. --- Do you want me to: Explain this verse in more detail? Connect it to a specific story or event from the Old Testament? Discuss its theological significance?