Jeremiah 19:8

I will make this city a desolation and an object of scorn. All who pass by will be appalled and will scoff at all her wounds.

Study Bible

I will make
This phrase indicates the sovereignty and active involvement of God in the affairs of nations. The Hebrew root here is "עָשָׂה" (asah), meaning to do, make, or accomplish. It underscores God's authority and power to bring about His will. In the context of Jeremiah, it reflects God's judgment as a response to the people's persistent disobedience and idolatry.

this city
Referring specifically to Jerusalem, the city chosen by God as His dwelling place and the center of worship for Israel. Historically, Jerusalem held immense significance as the political and spiritual heart of the nation. The mention of "this city" highlights the gravity of the impending judgment, as it is not just any city, but the one that was supposed to be a beacon of God's presence.

a desolation
The Hebrew word "שְׁמָמָה" (shemamah) conveys utter ruin and devastation. This term is often used in prophetic literature to describe the aftermath of divine judgment. The imagery of desolation serves as a stark warning of the consequences of turning away from God. It evokes a sense of emptiness and abandonment, contrasting with the city's former glory.

and an object of scorn
The phrase suggests that Jerusalem will become a byword for disgrace and humiliation. The Hebrew root "שְׁרֵקָה" (shreqah) implies derision and mockery. This reflects the shame that will come upon the city as a result of its unfaithfulness. Historically, cities that fell to ruin often became cautionary tales, and this serves as a reminder of the importance of faithfulness to God.

Everyone who passes by
This phrase indicates the universal recognition of Jerusalem's downfall. The onlookers, likely travelers or neighboring nations, will witness the city's destruction. It emphasizes the public nature of the judgment and serves as a testimony to the seriousness of God's warnings through the prophets.

will be appalled
The Hebrew word "שָׁמֵם" (shamem) means to be astonished or horrified. This reaction underscores the severity of the judgment. The onlookers' shock serves to highlight the drastic change from Jerusalem's former status as a thriving city to its current state of ruin.

and will scoff
The act of scoffing, from the Hebrew "שָׁרַק" (sharaq), involves mocking or deriding. This response from passersby indicates a lack of sympathy and a sense of superiority. It reflects the fulfillment of prophetic warnings and serves as a sobering reminder of the consequences of ignoring God's commands.

at all her wounds
The term "wounds" suggests the deep and painful afflictions suffered by the city. In a metaphorical sense, these wounds represent the consequences of sin and rebellion against God. The imagery of wounds evokes a sense of suffering and vulnerability, highlighting the need for repentance and divine healing.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Jeremiah
A prophet called by God to deliver messages of judgment and hope to the people of Judah. His ministry was marked by warnings of impending disaster due to the people's unfaithfulness.

2. Jerusalem
The city referred to in this verse, which was the capital of Judah and the spiritual center for the Israelites. It was destined for destruction due to the people's idolatry and disobedience.

3. The People of Judah
The inhabitants of Jerusalem and the surrounding region, who had turned away from God and were engaging in idolatrous practices.

4. The Passersby
Those from other nations who would witness the destruction of Jerusalem and react with shock and derision.

5. The Event of Desolation
The prophesied destruction of Jerusalem, which would serve as a divine judgment for the people's sins.

Teaching Points

The Consequences of Disobedience
God's warnings through His prophets are serious. Ignoring them leads to severe consequences, as seen in the desolation of Jerusalem.

The Witness of Judgment
The destruction of Jerusalem serves as a testimony to the nations of God's righteousness and justice. Our lives should reflect God's holiness to those around us.

Repentance and Restoration
While judgment is severe, God's ultimate desire is for repentance and restoration. We should seek to turn back to God before facing the consequences of our actions.

The Importance of Heeding God's Word
Just as the people of Judah were warned, we too have access to God's Word. We must listen and obey to avoid spiritual desolation.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the prophecy of Jerusalem's desolation in Jeremiah 19:8 reflect the broader theme of judgment in the Old Testament?

2. In what ways can the reaction of the passersby to Jerusalem's destruction serve as a warning to us today about the consequences of sin?

3. How can we apply the lessons of Jeremiah 19:8 to ensure our communities reflect God's holiness rather than becoming objects of scorn?

4. What parallels can you draw between the warnings given to Jerusalem and the warnings found in the New Testament for believers?

5. How does understanding the historical and cultural context of Jeremiah 19:8 enhance our interpretation and application of this scripture in our lives today?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Deuteronomy 28:37
This verse speaks of Israel becoming an object of horror and scorn among the nations if they disobey God, echoing the themes of judgment found in Jeremiah 19:8.

Lamentations 2:15
Describes the reaction of passersby who mock Jerusalem after its fall, directly connecting to the prophecy in Jeremiah 19:8.

Ezekiel 5:14-15
God declares He will make Jerusalem a ruin and a reproach among the nations, similar to the message in Jeremiah.