Definition: Now Pashur the son of Immer the priest, who [was] also chief governor in the house of the LORD, heard that Jeremiah prophesied these things.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Jeremiah 20:1. It’s a really important and somewhat dramatic starting point to the book. Here's what it means in plain language: Basically, this verse tells us that Jeremiah was told about something very significant. Here’s a breakdown of the key parts: “Jeremiah” : This is the name of a prophet in the Bible – someone who spoke God’s words to people. “20:1” : This is the beginning of a passage. “Now Pashur the son of Immer the priest, who [was] also chief governor in the house of the LORD…” : This identifies the person being told about. Let's unpack “who was also chief governor in the house of the LORD.” This means he held a powerful position – a high-ranking official – within the temple and the religious community. Think of him as someone who oversaw important religious activities. “…heard that Jeremiah prophesied these things” : This is the crucial part! Jeremiah was telling Pashur about something he'd heard from others (likely other prophets) - that he was speaking about a future event. So, what’s the big takeaway? This verse sets up a situation of disagreement and conflict. Jeremiah is speaking to someone who knows about prophecies – predictions about the future. And Pashur is telling him about those prophecies. It suggests there's a disagreement or tension between Jeremiah and this person, because Pashur is contradicting what Jeremiah says. What does this verse suggest? It’s often interpreted as foreshadowing something bad to come – possibly about the Temple itself. The prophecy Jeremiah spoke was about the Temple being destroyed. It’s a crucial moment in biblical history that led to the events of the Old Testament, particularly the story of the Babylonian exile. In short, this verse introduces a conflict and sets the stage for a story filled with challenges and divine judgment. --- Do you want me to: Explain another verse? Give you more context about Jeremiah or the time period he lived in?

Definition: For I heard the defaming of many, fear on every side. Report, [say they], and we will report it. All my familiars watched for my halting, [saying], Peradventure he will be enticed, and we shall prevail against him, and we shall take our revenge on him.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this passage from Jeremiah 20:10. It's a really powerful and complex verse that speaks to a serious situation with a lot of urgency. Here’s a simplified explanation: The Basic Story: Jeremiah is a prophet who’s been warned by God to tell the truth about a man named Jezebel. Jezebel was a powerful woman and advisor to King Josiah, and she was accused of numerous lies and betrayals. Jeremiah is essentially saying that many people are spreading these lies and causing fear and anxiety in the land. Let’s unpack it word by word: “For I heard the defaming of many…” : This means Jeremiah has been told repeatedly that people are falsely accusing others – they're spreading lies and criticisms about others. “…fear on every side.” : This is a huge warning. It suggests a widespread atmosphere of anxiety, dread, and distrust. People are terrified because of the accusations. “Report, [say they], and we will report it.” : This is a direct command from Jeremiah to actively gather information about these lies and share them with his followers. He’s emphasizing that this isn't just a rumor; it’s a serious problem requiring action. “All my familiars watched for my halting, [saying] Peradventure he will be enticed…” : This is the most complicated part. “Familiars” refers to Jeremiah’s advisors and followers. He’s saying that his trusted advisors are constantly watching him, looking for any signs that Jezebel might be tempted or influenced by these lies. The phrase "Peradventure he will be enticed" means that there’s a possibility that Jezebel might be swayed. “And we shall prevail against him, and we shall take our revenge on him.” : This is the core of the verse. Jeremiah is preparing to take action – to actively fight back against Jezebel and her lies. He's envisioning a future where he and his followers will punish Jezebel severely. Overall Meaning & Context: This passage highlights a situation of profound crisis. It’s a time when trust is broken, fear is rampant, and the potential for widespread harm is very real. Jeremiah is urging his followers to be vigilant and actively address this problem before it escalates further. It speaks to a serious challenge – a battle against deceit and the consequences of false accusations. Important Note: The verse doesn’t offer specifics about how Jeremiah plans to take revenge. It focuses on the urgent need to gather information and prepare for action. --- To help me explain this verse even better, could you tell me: What specifically are you finding confusing or interesting about it? (e.g., the use of “peradventure”? The emphasis on advisors?)

Definition: But the LORD [is] with me as a mighty terrible one: therefore my persecutors shall stumble, and they shall not prevail: they shall be greatly ashamed; for they shall not prosper: [their] everlasting confusion shall never be forgotten.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Jeremiah 20:11. It’s a powerful message about God’s power and how He will protect His people. Here's a simplified explanation: The Core Idea: This verse is saying that God is so strong and determined that He will actively thwart the plans of those who are trying to harm or persecute us. It’s predicting a future where their efforts will be unsuccessful and filled with shame. Let's unpack it word by word: “But the LORD [is] with me as a mighty terrible one…” – This is a strong declaration of God’s presence and power. “Mighty terrible” emphasizes that He isn’t just there , but actively involved in protecting us. “…therefore my persecutors shall stumble, and they shall not prevail:” – This means those who are trying to hurt or threaten us will fail. They'll lose their footing, be confused, and ultimately lose the ability to succeed. “They shall be greatly ashamed; for they shall not prosper:” – This is a direct consequence of their failure. Their efforts will be met with shame, and they’ll experience a loss of success or gain. It's like a bad reputation spreading quickly. “…[their] everlasting confusion shall never be forgotten.” - This is the most significant part. It suggests that the consequences of this persecution – the ongoing pain, confusion, and lack of success – will linger long after it’s happened. “Everlasting” means it won't fade away. In simpler terms: God is actively working to protect us from those who are trying to harm us. His presence is powerful enough to thwart their plans and cause lasting shame for them. It’s a promise of God’s protection and a warning about the consequences of evil. What does this mean for us? This verse can be interpreted as: A reassurance: It's a message of hope because it tells us that God is on our side, even when things seem hopeless. A call to faithfulness: It encourages us to stand firm in our faith and resist evil. A reminder of God’s sovereignty: It acknowledges that God has ultimate control over events and will ultimately prevail against those who oppose Him. Do you want me to explain any part of this verse in more detail, or perhaps discuss its significance within the context of the Old Testament? For example, we could talk about why this passage is often seen as a prophecy of the future.

Definition: But, O LORD of hosts, that triest the righteous, [and] seest the reins and the heart, let me see thy vengeance on them: for unto thee have I opened my cause.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Jeremiah 20:12. It’s a really powerful and dramatic plea from a man facing immense pressure. Here's what it essentially means in simpler terms: The Core Situation: “But, O LORD of hosts…” : This is a huge, intense declaration of respect and desperation. The speaker is addressing God as if He were the most powerful being imaginable. “…that triest the righteous…” : "Triest" means to test or try someone. This phrase highlights that the speaker believes he’s facing a serious trial – someone who is truly good, just, and right. “[and] seest the reins and the heart...” : This is where it gets really intense. “Reins” refers to his conscience – his moral compass. "Heart" means his emotions, particularly his feelings and motivations. He’s saying God is seeing his inner turmoil and struggles. “Let me see thy vengeance on them: for unto thee have I opened my cause.” : This is the most crucial part. The speaker is begging God to show Him what will happen to those who are being judged by him. He’s asking for a judgment – a punishment – that he understands is coming. He's essentially saying, "I understand this is going to be terrible, and I desperately want to know how it will end." Putting It All Together - A Summary of the Message: The verse expresses a man who is overwhelmed by guilt and fear about his actions. He’s admitting he’s being judged – perhaps for a sin he believes he's committed – and he’s begging God to reveal the consequences. He wants to know what will happen to those who are facing this judgment. Possible Interpretations (it's not always straightforward): Guilt & Shame: The verse often speaks to deep-seated guilt and shame, where the speaker feels responsible for something terrible happening to others. Justice & Punishment: It can represent a sense of being unfairly treated or punished, and the speaker is seeking justice. Divine Justice: It's a plea for God’s righteous judgment, emphasizing that He will deliver what is right. Important Note: This verse is very poetic and symbolic. It’s not meant to be taken literally as a straightforward account of a specific event. It’s about the speaker’s emotional state and his desperate desire for understanding. --- Do you want me to: Explain another part of the verse? Talk about the context of this passage in the Bible? Explore a possible interpretation of the verse within its historical setting?

Definition: Sing unto the LORD, praise ye the LORD: for he hath delivered the soul of the poor from the hand of evildoers.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Jeremiah 20:13. It's a really important and powerful message about God’s care for the vulnerable. Here’s what it means in simpler terms: The Basic Idea: “Sing unto the LORD…” : This is a direct command to praise and worship God. It’s a request to acknowledge His power, goodness, and faithfulness. “…praise ye the LORD…” : This isn't just any kind of praise; it’s a deep and sincere expression of gratitude. “for he hath delivered the soul of the poor from the hand of evildoers.” : This is the key part. It means God has protected those who are suffering, facing hardship, or being mistreated by people who do wrong. Let’s unpack it a little: “He hath delivered…” : This is a strong way of saying "God has saved." “…the soul of the poor…” : This refers to individuals who are struggling – those who are suffering, oppressed, or facing danger. It's not just about financial hardship; it’s about being vulnerable and helpless. “from the hand of evildoers” : “Evildoers” means people who do wrong, harm, or injustice. This refers to those who exploit, mistreat, or oppress others for their own selfish gain. So, what does it all mean? It’s a message of hope and protection . It tells us that God is actively working to protect the weak and vulnerable from harm. He's not just passively watching; He’s intervening to safeguard those who are at risk. Why is this important? This verse reminds us that God cares deeply about people, even when they don’t deserve it. It encourages us to look for opportunities to praise and thank Him because He is working for good in our lives. It’s a reminder of His power and faithfulness. --- Do you want me to: Explain another verse from Jeremiah? Discuss the context of this verse in the book of Jeremiah (what was happening at the time)?

Definition: Cursed [be] the day wherein I was born: let not the day wherein my mother bare me be blessed.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Jeremiah 20:14. It's a really powerful and somewhat unsettling passage about God’s perspective on humanity. Here’s what it means in simpler terms: The Core Idea: God is saying that He feels resentful and angry about the existence of humans. He’s acknowledging that He was born, and he’s feeling a deep sadness about it. He's essentially saying, "I'm burdened by the fact that I exist." Let’s unpack it piece by piece: “Jeremiah 20:14 Cursed [be] the day wherein I was born…” – This is the key part. “Cursed” in this context doesn’t mean a literal curse like a bad deal. It means God feels a terrible, negative emotion about being born. It's a sense of profound sadness and perhaps even a little shame. “…let not the day wherein my mother bare me be blessed.” – This is where it gets really significant. “Bare me” refers to the very beginning of God’s life. He was created in a moment of intense, almost painful, separation from his divine source. The phrase "let not the day wherein my mother bore me be blessed" means that he doesn't want to be part of anything good or positive. It’s a statement of deep melancholy and a feeling that he feels unworthy of happiness. What it’s trying to convey: This verse is a glimpse into God’s perspective on humanity. It suggests a sense of: Distance from God: He feels separated, perhaps even alienated, from the good things of the world. Self-blame: There's an element of feeling responsible for his own existence – like he’s somehow created something that is inherently flawed and unhappy. A sense of suffering: It speaks to a deep emotional burden, as if he carries a heavy sadness about being born. Important Note: It’s crucial to understand this verse within its historical context. Jeremiah was writing during a time of great political turmoil and unrest in Israel. This verse reflects God's perspective on humanity's choices – their disobedience and rebellion – which ultimately led to his anger and separation from them. --- Disclaimer: I am an AI Chatbot and not a biblical scholar. This explanation is based on interpretations of the text within theological and historical contexts. Would you like me to: Explain another verse? Discuss the symbolism behind this passage?

Definition: Cursed [be] the man who brought tidings to my father, saying, A man child is born unto thee; making him very glad.

Explanation: Okay, let's break down this verse from Jeremiah 20:15. It’s a really strange and complex passage, so we’ll go through it step-by-step. Here's the basic idea: This verse is about a man who was incredibly upset and worried about a baby being born to someone connected to King Josiah. It’s essentially saying he was terrified that his child would be born to someone important in the king’s family. Let's unpack it further: “Jeremiah 20:15 Cursed [be] the man who brought tidings to my father…” This is the core of the verse. Jeremiah, a prophet, is lamenting about this man (likely named “Zim”) who was telling him about the baby’s birth. The word "cursed" means that the person has been given a punishment or misfortune. “…saying, A man child is born unto thee; making him very glad.” This is the problem part. The man (Zim) was saying something incredibly unsettling: “A man child is born to you!” And then he added that this birth would make the person very happy . What’s the significance? This verse is interpreted as a powerful and symbolic message about divine judgment and consequences. Here's what it suggests: Divine Punishment: The "cursing" implies that God is punishing someone for their actions or words. It suggests a moral transgression has occurred. Judgment from God: The verse highlights that the punishment isn’t coming from anyone else – it’s coming directly from God. The Importance of Obedience: It also hints at the importance of obedience to God's laws and commands. Zim’s actions (his words) were causing trouble, and God is exacting a consequence. Context & Interpretation - It's a Bit Mysterious! This verse is notoriously difficult to understand because it's written in a very symbolic way. It wasn’t meant to be taken literally. It was used to show God’s power and judgment on those who were displeasing him. The meaning has been debated for centuries, but here are some common interpretations: Zim’s Rebellion: Many believe Zim was defying Josiah's authority by speaking out about the baby. A Symbolic Representation of a Kingdom Crisis: Some scholars see it as representing a larger crisis within the kingdom – a threat to the king’s power or divine order. In short, Jeremiah 20:15 is a vivid and dramatic verse that conveys God's judgment and the potential consequences of wrongdoing. --- Do you want me to: Explain another part of this verse? Discuss a specific interpretation of the verse? Compare it to other biblical passages about judgment or divine retribution?

Definition: And let that man be as the cities which the LORD overthrew, and repented not: and let him hear the cry in the morning, and the shouting at noontide;

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Jeremiah 20:16. It's a really powerful and dramatic statement about a person who refused to repent after causing significant trouble. Here’s a simplified explanation: The Basic Idea: This verse describes someone who acted in a way that was incredibly destructive and upsetting, and then stubbornly refused to acknowledge their mistake or change their behavior. It paints a picture of someone who deliberately caused chaos and suffering. Let's unpack it word by word: “And let that man be as the cities which the LORD overthrew…” – This is the core of the image. Jeremiah is comparing this person to powerful, destroyed cities. The Lord (God) has repeatedly destroyed cities throughout history because of their wickedness and rebellion. Think of them as being ravaged by war, famine, or other disasters. “…and repented not:” - This is a crucial part. It means the person didn’t show remorse or regret for what they had done. They didn't acknowledge that their actions were wrong or harmful. They continued to act as if everything was okay. “And let him hear the cry in the morning, and the shouting at noontime.” – This is a very strong image. The “cry” represents the suffering and pain caused by their actions. The "shouting at noontime" symbolizes a constant, angry, and disruptive presence of their negativity. It’s like a persistent, overwhelming sound of anger and frustration. So, what does it mean ? It's suggesting that this person was so focused on their own wickedness and rebellion that they didn’t take responsibility for the harm they caused. They continued to act in a way that brought misery to others, even after being confronted with the consequences of their actions. It speaks to a lack of empathy and a refusal to change. Overall Significance: This verse is often interpreted as a warning against stubbornness, willful defiance, and the importance of acknowledging wrongdoing. It highlights the need for repentance – a sincere turning away from sin and seeking forgiveness – to truly be reconciled with God and others. --- To help me explain it even better and tailor it to your needs, could you tell me: What's your current understanding of this verse? (Do you have any initial thoughts or questions?) Why are you interested in learning about this verse? (Are you studying a particular Bible story, looking for deeper meaning, or just curious?)

Definition: Because he slew me not from the womb; or that my mother might have been my grave, and her womb [to be] always great [with me].

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this incredibly poignant passage from Jeremiah 20:17. It’s a really powerful and moving verse, and it speaks to a deep sense of loss and injustice. Here's the explanation in simpler terms: The Basic Idea: This verse describes a situation where someone – likely a prominent figure – was brutally murdered by Jeremiah. The speaker is expressing immense grief and a feeling that their life is forever tainted by this tragedy. It’s about the feeling of being targeted, not necessarily a literal retelling of the event. Let's unpack it: “Because he slew me not from the womb…” – This part emphasizes a deep sense of protection and a feeling that their life was already secure. It suggests they were protected by God or fate, and that this death wasn’t a random occurrence. “…or that my mother might have been my grave, and her womb [to be] always great [with me].” – This is the core of the verse. The speaker is saying: "My mother was my grave, and her womb always carried me." “Her womb” refers to his mother, who was likely a powerful and influential figure. “Always great” means that her womb was always filled with him – she was perpetually connected to him, carrying him into the world. It’s a symbolic representation of a life inextricably linked to someone else's existence. What it Means (Interpretations): This verse is rich with symbolism and evokes several interpretations: A Sense of Betrayal: It suggests a deep sense of betrayal by God or fate, as if their life was stolen away from them. Loss of Identity: It can be interpreted as a loss of identity – the person’s very being is tied to this one individual. They felt like they were always defined by this one person's existence. A Victim of Circumstance: It could also be seen as a victim of circumstance - perhaps he was in a situation where he was unfairly targeted or suffered a terrible fate. Important Note: The exact meaning of the verse is debated among scholars. It’s often interpreted as a profound expression of grief and a sense of being utterly devastated by loss. --- In short, this verse paints a picture of intense sorrow, a feeling of being trapped in a cycle of misfortune, and a deep connection to someone who was tragically removed from their life. Do you want me to: Explain another part of the passage? Discuss a specific interpretation of the verse?

Definition: Wherefore came I forth out of the womb to see labour and sorrow, that my days should be consumed with shame?

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this very poetic and somewhat mysterious verse from Jeremiah 20:18. It's a really unique way of expressing a deep sadness and feeling of being overwhelmed. Here’s the explanation in simpler terms: The Basic Idea: This verse is about a prophet named Jeremiah feeling incredibly burdened by a terrible situation – his own suffering and the suffering of others. He felt like he was being born into pain and hardship, and that this pain would last forever. It's almost like he’s experiencing a painful birth process. Let’s unpack it piece by piece: “Wherefore came I forth…” : This means "Why did I come out?" It’s a question of origin – why is this happening? “…out of the womb to see labor and sorrow…” : This is the core of the verse. Jeremiah was born into a time of immense suffering, like famine, war, and injustice. He wasn't just born; he experienced hardship and pain. “Labor” refers to the difficult work of rebuilding after devastation – the effort of restoring a broken land. "Sorrow" is the deep sadness and grief that comes from these hardships. “…that my days should be consumed with shame?” : This is the crucial part. Jeremiah felt like his entire life would be marked by shame and humiliation because he was witnessing so much suffering. “Consumed” means completely filled or overwhelmed – his life would be entirely dominated by this pain. What does it mean practically? It’s a powerful expression of: A heavy burden: Jeremiah felt like he carried the weight of the world's problems on his shoulders. A sense of hopelessness: He wasn’t seeing a way out of the suffering, and it seemed to last forever. An overwhelming feeling of guilt or responsibility: He may have been feeling responsible for the pain happening around him – perhaps because he was witnessing injustice. Important Note: This verse is often interpreted as a profound expression of Jeremiah’s spiritual distress. It's not necessarily about him being directly responsible for the suffering, but rather that he felt deeply connected to it and couldn’t escape it. --- In short, this verse paints a picture of a prophet experiencing an incredibly painful birth – a birth into a world of immense hardship and feeling utterly consumed by shame. Do you want me to: Explain another Bible passage? Discuss the context of Jeremiah’s time?