Definition: But know ye for certain, that if ye put me to death, ye shall surely bring innocent blood upon yourselves, and upon this city, and upon the inhabitants thereof: for of a truth the LORD hath sent me unto you to speak all these words in your ears.
Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Jeremiah 26:15. It’s a really powerful and unsettling passage about a future conflict. Here's what it means in simpler terms: The Core of the Verse: “But know for certain, that if ye put me to death, ye shall surely bring innocent blood upon yourselves…” – This is the main warning. Jeremiah is saying if someone kills him, they will be punished with a terrible consequence for themselves and their community. “Innocent” means without guilt or blame. "...and upon this city, and upon the inhabitants thereof:” – This refers to Jerusalem, specifically its people. It’s not just about killing him ; it's about causing widespread destruction and violence within the city itself. “for of a truth the LORD hath sent me unto you…” – This is a crucial part. Jeremiah is telling God that He was sent to this specific group of people (likely the Israelites) with a very serious message. Putting it All Together - A Simple Explanation: Jeremiah is warning these people – likely the Israelites – about a terrible plan they are planning to do against him. He’s saying if they kill him, they will be responsible for a massive amount of suffering and destruction. They’re being warned that this action will have devastating consequences not just for them but for everyone in Jerusalem. Important Context (It's a Bit Dark): This verse comes from a time when the Israelites were experiencing a period of intense rebellion and idolatry under King Josiah. Jeremiah was essentially delivering a message of judgment and warning about the dangers of their actions. It’s a stark reminder that God is watching, and He doesn't tolerate wickedness or defiance. In essence, this verse paints a picture of impending violence and retribution – a desperate plea from God to protect his people. --- Do you want me to: Explain another part of the passage? Discuss the historical context more deeply? Talk about what this verse might represent in terms of themes like judgment, repentance, or divine justice?