Jeremiah 14:6

Wild donkeys stand on barren heights; they pant for air like jackals; their eyes fail for lack of pasture."

Study Bible

Wild donkeys
The Hebrew word for "wild donkeys" is "פֶּרֶא" (pere'), which refers to a species known for its untamed and independent nature. In the ancient Near East, wild donkeys were symbols of freedom and resilience, often surviving in harsh environments. This imagery highlights the desperation and struggle of the people of Judah, who, like these animals, are enduring severe conditions. The wild donkey's plight serves as a metaphor for the spiritual and physical desolation faced by the nation due to their disobedience to God.

stand on the barren heights
The phrase "stand on the barren heights" evokes a picture of desolation and emptiness. The "barren heights" refer to elevated areas that are devoid of vegetation, often used in the Bible to symbolize places of idolatry and false worship. In this context, it underscores the futility and hopelessness of seeking sustenance or relief in places that cannot provide it. Spiritually, it reflects the emptiness of turning away from God and relying on false idols or human strength.

they pant for air like jackals
The imagery of panting "for air like jackals" conveys a sense of desperation and exhaustion. Jackals, known for their scavenging nature, often inhabit desolate areas and are associated with desolation and ruin in biblical literature. The Hebrew word "שָׁאף" (sha'aph) for "pant" suggests an intense longing or craving. This phrase illustrates the dire need and unfulfilled desires of the people, who are spiritually and physically parched, seeking relief that only God can provide.

their eyes fail for lack of pasture
The phrase "their eyes fail for lack of pasture" paints a vivid picture of hopelessness and despair. In the agrarian society of ancient Israel, "pasture" was essential for the survival of livestock, symbolizing sustenance and provision. The Hebrew word "כָּלָה" (kalah) for "fail" implies a sense of completion or coming to an end. This imagery suggests that the people are at the end of their resources, unable to find the nourishment they need. Spiritually, it reflects the consequences of turning away from God, the true source of life and sustenance.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Jeremiah
A major prophet in the Old Testament, known for his messages of warning and hope to the people of Judah. He is the author of the Book of Jeremiah.

2. Judah
The southern kingdom of Israel, which was facing severe drought and impending judgment due to their disobedience to God.

3. Wild Donkeys
Symbolic of the desolation and desperation in the land. In the context of Jeremiah, they represent the natural world suffering due to the sins of the people.

4. Barren Heights
High places that are dry and desolate, often used in the Bible to symbolize spiritual barrenness and judgment.

5. Drought
A significant event in the Book of Jeremiah, representing both physical and spiritual deprivation due to the people's unfaithfulness.

Teaching Points

Spiritual Desolation
Just as the wild donkeys suffer from lack of water, our souls suffer when we are spiritually dry. We must seek God to quench our spiritual thirst.

Consequences of Disobedience
The drought in Judah serves as a reminder of the consequences of turning away from God. We must remain faithful to His commandments to avoid spiritual and physical desolation.

God's Provision
Despite the desolation, God is always ready to provide for those who turn back to Him. We should trust in His provision and seek His guidance in times of need.

Intercession for Others
Jeremiah's role as a prophet included interceding for the people. We are called to pray for others, especially when they are experiencing spiritual drought.

Awareness of Spiritual Needs
Just as the wild donkeys are aware of their need for water, we must be aware of our spiritual needs and actively seek God to fulfill them.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the imagery of wild donkeys in Jeremiah 14:6 reflect the spiritual state of Judah, and how can this apply to our own spiritual lives today?

2. In what ways can we identify spiritual drought in our lives, and what steps can we take to seek God's refreshing presence?

3. How do the consequences of disobedience outlined in Deuteronomy 28 relate to the situation described in Jeremiah 14:6?

4. What role does intercessory prayer play in addressing spiritual desolation, and how can we incorporate this practice into our daily lives?

5. How can we ensure that we are spiritually aware and responsive to our needs, similar to the way the wild donkeys are aware of their need for water?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Deuteronomy 28
This chapter outlines the blessings for obedience and curses for disobedience, including drought as a consequence of turning away from God.

Isaiah 41:17-18
These verses speak of God's promise to provide water and relief to the needy, contrasting the desolation described in Jeremiah 14:6.

Psalm 42:1
The imagery of panting for water is used to describe a deep spiritual longing for God, similar to the physical thirst depicted in Jeremiah.