Definition: For the mountains will I take up a weeping and wailing, and for the habitations of the wilderness a lamentation, because they are burned up, so that none can pass through [them]; neither can [men] hear the voice of the cattle; both the fowl of the heavens and the beast are fled; they are gone.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Jeremiah 9:10. It's a pretty powerful and evocative passage about God’s judgment on a specific area. Here’s what it means in simpler terms: The Basic Idea: God is very angry with a particular place – think of it like a forest or a valley – that has been desecrated, burned, and abandoned. He’s so upset that it’s creating a terrible situation for everyone who lives there. Let's unpack the details: “For the mountains will I take up a weeping and wailing…” : This means God is feeling immense sadness and pain because of what’s happening. It’s not just a simple complaint; it’s a deep, sustained sorrow. “…and for the habitations of the wilderness a lamentation…” : The “habitations” refers to the land itself – the area where people live and grow crops. God is feeling a profound sadness because the land has been ruined and isn't being used productively. It’s like a deep mourning for something lost. “…because they are burned up, so that none can pass through [them]…” : This is a key part. God is deliberately destroying this area to prevent people from entering and using it. It's a deliberate act of separation. “…neither can [men] hear the voice of the cattle…” : Cattle are animals, and their sounds are important for communication and livelihood. The verse says that humans (people) can’t hear the cattle – meaning they can’t communicate with each other or understand what's happening. It’s a symbolic representation of isolation and lack of connection. “…both the fowl of the heavens and the beast are fled…” : This refers to birds, which often symbolize hope or good things. The fact that they're fleeing suggests a loss of faith, security, or future prospects. “…they are gone.” : Finally, God has completely removed this area from the world, leaving it desolate and empty. It’s as if everything is being erased - both physically and spiritually. Overall Meaning: Jeremiah 9:10 paints a picture of a place that has been deeply damaged by sin and wickedness. God's anger is so intense that he is actively destroying it to protect the innocent people who rely on it, and to prevent them from experiencing further harm. It’s a stark warning about the consequences of neglecting God’s will and embracing evil. It’s often interpreted as a call for repentance and restoration. God desires a return to righteousness and a renewed relationship with his people. --- Do you want me to: Explain this verse in more detail, perhaps focusing on a specific symbol? Discuss its significance within the larger context of the Old Testament prophecies? Offer a parallel example from another Bible passage?