Definition: They have made it desolate, [and being] desolate it mourneth unto me; the whole land is made desolate, because no man layeth [it] to heart.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this passage from Jeremiah 12:11. It’s a really powerful and somewhat sad verse about God’s perspective on a specific situation. Here's what it means in simpler terms: The Basic Idea: God is feeling deeply saddened by something happening – specifically, the land being left barren and without joy. He’s saying that this lack of happiness and life is causing him immense pain. Let’s unpack it piece by piece: “They have made it desolate…” : This means the land is suffering from a lack of things – perhaps people aren't happy, there's no prosperity, or something else is destroying its potential for growth and beauty. It implies a loss of life and well-being. “[and being] desolate it mourneth unto me” : This is key. "Desolate" means empty and lifeless. The land is mourning – feeling sorrow and pain because of this emptiness. “It mourneth unto me” - it’s his sorrow, his pain. He feels a deep sadness about it. “the whole land is made desolate…” : This emphasizes the severity of the problem. It’s not just one small area; everything is affected – the entire land is suffering. “because no man layeth [it] to heart.” : This is the most important part. "Layeth it to heart" means that people are not feeling or appreciating life, and they aren’t happy with their circumstances. It suggests a lack of joy, contentment, or purpose in the community. Overall Meaning & Context: Jeremiah was writing about a time when the Israelites were facing a period of hardship and perhaps even rebellion. God is showing his frustration and concern because people are not responding to his messages with happiness and righteousness. It's a plea for repentance – a turning away from sin and toward God. In short, Jeremiah is saying that God is heartbroken by the lack of joy and contentment in the land, and he’s feeling deeply saddened by this state. --- Do you want me to: Explain this verse further? Give you a related Bible story or concept?