Definition: A drought [is] upon her waters; and they shall be dried up: for it [is] the land of graven images, and they are mad upon [their] idols.
Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Jeremiah 50:38. It's a pretty powerful and symbolic statement about a time of significant change and judgment. Here’s what it means in simpler terms: Basically, it says that God is going to bring a terrible drought to a place where people have been relying on idols and false gods. Let’s unpack the parts: “A drought [is] upon her waters…” : This immediately establishes a problem – a severe lack of water. It’s not just a little dry spell; this is a major, prolonged drought. “…and they shall be dried up:” This means the land will become barren and lifeless. The water will vanish, and everything will wither and die. “For it [is] the land of graven images…” : This is the key part. "Graven images" refers to idols – religious figures made of stone or wood that people worshipped. Jeremiah was warning about a time when people were abandoning their true faith for false gods. “…and they are mad upon [their] idols.” : This means they’ve become obsessed with their idols and have lost their way of thinking. They're so caught up in worshipping these figures that they've forgotten the real God. What’s happening metaphorically? Jeremiah is saying that this place has become a place of spiritual ruin. The people are so consumed by their false gods that they’ve lost sight of the true God. They’re in a state of panic and confusion, and that's leading to destruction. In essence, it’s a warning about the dangers of idolatry – worshipping false idols instead of worshipping the one true God. Important Note: This verse is often interpreted as a prophecy of judgment and a time of great suffering. However, it also speaks to a need for repentance and returning to God's true worship. --- Do you want me to explain any specific aspect of this verse in more detail? For example, would you like to know: What “graven images” actually meant in ancient times? How this relates to the story of Noah and the flood?