Definition: I have seen thine adulteries, and thy neighings, the lewdness of thy whoredom, [and] thine abominations on the hills in the fields. Woe unto thee, O Jerusalem! wilt thou not be made clean? when [shall it] once [be]?

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this passage from Jeremiah 13:27. It’s a really powerful and sobering verse, and it's important to understand the context before diving into the words themselves. Here’s an explanation in simpler terms: The Basic Situation: Jeremiah is writing about Jerusalem – specifically, its people – and their behavior. He’s expressing profound disappointment and anger because he’s seen evidence of serious moral failings within the city. The verse describes a series of offenses – “adabitions on the hills in the fields” - that are considered deeply wrong and shameful. Let's unpack the key parts: “I have seen thine adulteries…” : This is a direct accusation. Jeremiah is saying he has witnessed specific acts of betrayal, deceit, and immoral behavior within Jerusalem’s community. He doesn’t just say “they are bad,” but rather details what those bad things are – sexual relationships outside of marriage, impurity, etc. “…and thy neighings, the lewdness of thy whoredom…” : "Neighings" refers to casual sexual encounters or behavior that is considered immoral and unholy. "Lewdness” means a lack of morality and propriety. “…and thine abominations on the hills in the fields.” : This is a very strong phrase. “Abominations” are behaviors that are so shocking and deeply offensive that they are considered against God’s law and moral standards. "On the hills in the fields" suggests these things are happening outside of designated areas , implying a disregard for God's laws and order. The Plea & Warning: “Woe unto thee, O Jerusalem!” : This is a mournful cry of condemnation. Jeremiah is warning that this situation is devastating for Jerusalem. It’s not just about individual wrongdoings; it’s about a widespread moral decay. “wilt thou not be made clean?” : This is the core of the verse's urgency and challenge. It asks, “Will you not change? Will you not stop these behaviors?” It’s a desperate plea for repentance and restoration. The Overall Meaning & Significance: This passage is part of a larger prophetic message about Israel’s future. Jeremiah is essentially saying that if Jerusalem doesn't repent of its moral failings, God will ultimately punish it with devastating consequences – including destruction. It highlights the importance of righteousness, obedience to God's laws, and maintaining a pure and holy community. In short, this verse paints a picture of a city deeply corrupted by sin, and it’s a call for repentance and renewal. --- Disclaimer: I’ve provided an explanation based on the common interpretation of these verses within biblical scholarship. Different theological perspectives might offer slightly varying interpretations. Would you like me to: Explain another verse from this passage? Discuss the historical context surrounding Jeremiah's writing? Explore the themes of sin, repentance, and judgment found in this passage?