Definition: For thus saith the LORD; Behold, they whose judgment [was] not to drink of the cup have assuredly drunken; and [art] thou he [that] shall altogether go unpunished? thou shalt not go unpunished, but thou shalt surely drink [of it].

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Jeremiah 49:12. It's a really powerful and somewhat unsettling passage about the future of Israel. Here’s a simplified explanation: The Basic Idea: This verse is warning about the consequences of not accepting God’s judgment on Israel after they’ve committed terrible sins. It suggests that if they don’t acknowledge God’s punishment, they’ll be utterly ruined and face a severe fate. Let's unpack it piece by piece: “For thus saith the LORD…” : This is Jeremiah speaking directly to God. It’s a declaration of something significant coming to pass. “…Behold, they whose judgment [was] not to drink of the cup have assuredly drunken…” : This is the core of the warning. “Judgment” here refers to God's righteous punishment – often connected with sin and wrongdoing. The verse uses the metaphor of someone "drunk" to suggest a loss of reason and control. It means they’ve become consumed by their own wickedness and are lost in despair or foolishness. “And [art] thou he [that] shall altogether go unpunished, thou shalt not go unpunished…” : This is a direct accusation. Jeremiah is saying that they – the people of Israel – will be left to suffer completely without any consequence. It implies a complete lack of justice. “but thou shalt surely drink [of it].” : This is the chilling part. The punishment isn’t just about suffering; it's about consuming them with God’s wrath. “Drinking of it” suggests being utterly overwhelmed, perhaps even dying or being completely destroyed. What does this mean in a broader sense? This verse speaks to a very dark and tragic future for Israel. It highlights the potential consequences of rejecting God's will and continuing down a path of sin and rebellion. It’s a message of judgment and consequence, emphasizing that God holds those who disregard His law accountable. Important Context: Jeremiah was writing during a time of intense political turmoil and spiritual darkness in Israel. This verse is part of a larger narrative about the destruction of the kingdom and the exile of the Israelites. It’s a desperate plea from God to remind them of their covenant relationship with Him. --- Do you want me to: Explain any specific aspect of this verse in more detail? Compare it to another Bible passage? Discuss what this verse might symbolize in a broader theological context?