Definition: And the people to whom they prophesy shall be cast out in the streets of Jerusalem because of the famine and the sword; and they shall have none to bury them, them, their wives, nor their sons, nor their daughters: for I will pour their wickedness upon them.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Jeremiah 14:16. It's a really heavy and unsettling passage about the future of a people. Here’s a simplified explanation: What it means in plain terms: “When the people to whom they prophesy are speaking out against God and causing trouble, the city of Jerusalem will be destroyed. They will be exiled – thrown out of the city – because of the suffering and violence that will come from their wickedness.” Let’s unpack it piece by piece: "The people to whom they prophesy..." This refers to a specific group of people, likely a particular tribe or nation in Israel. "...shall be cast out in the streets of Jerusalem..." This is a dramatic image. It means they will be violently forced out of their homes and communities. They won’t have a safe place to live; they'll simply be exposed to danger. "...because of the famine and the sword..." This explains why they’re being cast out. The verse immediately links the prophecy to two major negative events: Famine: A severe shortage of food would cause widespread suffering and desperation among the people. Sword: This suggests that the people are engaging in a rebellion or causing conflict, perhaps through violence or immoral behavior. "...and they shall have none to bury them, them, their wives, nor their sons, nor their daughters: for I will pour their wickedness upon them." This is the most shocking part. It's saying that the people will be utterly destroyed and left with nothing – no bodies to mourn, no families to care for, and even their children will be lost. The "wickedness" refers to something morally wrong or harmful. What’s the overall message? Jeremiah 14:16 is a warning about the dangers of societal problems and the potential for widespread destruction when people stray from God's path. It suggests that if people become too rebellious, selfish, and immoral, they will bring ruin upon themselves and their community. It’s a message about the importance of righteousness, obedience to God, and avoiding wickedness. Important Note: This verse is often interpreted as a prophecy of Israel's future destruction, but it also carries a significant spiritual warning for believers today – urging us to strive for moral purity and avoid behaviors that could lead to conflict or suffering. --- Do you want me to: Explain any part of this verse in more detail? Discuss the context of the prophecy in the Bible? Talk about how this verse relates to other prophecies?