Definition: Why hast thou prophesied in the name of the LORD, saying, This house shall be like Shiloh, and this city shall be desolate without an inhabitant? And all the people were gathered against Jeremiah in the house of the LORD.
Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Jeremiah 26:9. It’s a really intense and dramatic passage, and it’s packed with meaning. Here's a simple explanation: What it says: “Jeremiah 26:9 says, ‘Why hast thou prophesied in the name of the LORD, saying, This house shall be like Shiloh, and this city shall be desolate without an inhabitant? And all the people were gathered against Jeremiah in the house of the LORD.’” What it means – in simpler terms: Jeremiah was prophesying: Jeremiah was a prophet who spoke about God’s judgment. He was predicting something terrible would happen. The prophecy was about a city: He said this city (likely Jerusalem) would be abandoned and desolate, like a ruined, forgotten place. It was a challenge to Jeremiah: He was essentially saying, "You're prophesying about a place that shouldn’t exist – a place of peace and prosperity! You’re disrupting God’s plan." The people were gathered against him: This is the really crucial part. The people (likely the Israelites) were actively opposing him, gathering to confront him. It suggests they were angry at his prophecy and determined to stop him. What's happening behind it? This verse speaks about a period of intense conflict and division between God and the Israelite people. Jeremiah was trying to warn them about their rebellion and disobedience against God. This verse highlights that even when Jeremiah prophesied, his words were not received well by those he was addressing – they were actively resisting him. Why is it important? This passage is often seen as a foreshadowing of the events leading up to the Babylonian exile in ancient Israel. It shows that God's judgment isn’t just about what happens, but also how people respond to his word and His plan. It speaks to a deep sense of rebellion against God’s will. In short: Jeremiah was warning about a city that would be abandoned because the people refused to obey God. It's a powerful message of judgment and defiance. --- Do you want me to: Explain another part of this verse? Discuss its connection to other biblical stories? Provide context for understanding it within the broader story of Israel’s history?