Definition: And the wild asses did stand in the high places, they snuffed up the wind like dragons; their eyes did fail, because [there was] no grass.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this passage from Jeremiah 14:6. It’s a really interesting and somewhat unsettling verse about a group of people who were acting recklessly and foolishly. Here's what it means in simpler terms: The Basic Idea: This verse describes a group of people – think of them as being very confident and impulsive – who were standing up straight, looking like dragons, and refusing to listen to the wind. They seemed to be completely ignoring the message of God. Let’s unpack it piece by piece: “Jeremiah 14:6” : This is a passage from the Book of Jeremiah, which was written during a time of great crisis in Israel. It's a serious warning from God. “And the wild asses did stand in the high places…” : “Wild asses” means people who are impulsive, reckless, and don’t think things through carefully. They were acting without thinking about the consequences. “High places” suggests they were standing somewhere important – maybe a leadership position or a place of power. “they snuffed up the wind like dragons…” : This is a powerful image. The wind is often seen as a messenger from God, carrying messages and guidance. "Snuffed up" means to stop or silence it. It's like they were deliberately trying to block out God’s voice. “their eyes did fail…” : This shows that they weren’t looking at God; they weren’t listening to Him. They were preoccupied with their own desires and actions, rather than following His instructions. “…because [there was] no grass.” This is the crucial part. The "grass" represents opportunity, prosperity, and a future filled with abundance – things that God promised Israel would have. The verse says there was no grass because they were refusing to listen to God’s guidance and weren’t taking advantage of the blessings He offered them. Overall Meaning & Context: This verse is about a group of people who prioritized their own desires, ambitions, or pride over God's instructions. They were acting like dragons – defiant and self-centered – and refusing to listen to the wisdom of the prophets. It’s a warning against complacency and the dangers of ignoring God's guidance. Why is it important? This story is often interpreted as a commentary on Israel during the time of King Josiah, who was known for his ambition and desire for power. The wild asses represent those who were seeking to usurp the throne and become powerful without God’s blessing. It highlights the importance of humility, obedience, and listening to God's voice, which is essential for a righteous life. --- Do you want me to: Explain this verse in more detail? Connect it to a specific historical event or biblical story? Discuss what the message of this verse might be about today?