Jeremiah 14:18

If I go out to the country, I see those slain by the sword; if I enter the city, I see those ravaged by famine! For both prophet and priest travel to a land they do not know.'"

Study Bible

If I go out to the field
The Hebrew word for "field" is "שָׂדֶה" (sadeh), which often denotes open country or agricultural land. In the context of ancient Israel, fields were places of labor and sustenance, but here they are transformed into scenes of death. This imagery underscores the totality of the devastation, as even the places meant for life and growth are now marked by destruction. Historically, fields were often the sites of battles, and Jeremiah's vision reflects the grim reality of war-torn landscapes.

I see those slain by the sword
The "sword" (חֶרֶב, chereb) is a frequent biblical symbol of warfare and divine judgment. In Jeremiah's time, the sword represented the Babylonian threat, a tool of God's judgment against Judah's unfaithfulness. The sight of the slain in the fields serves as a stark reminder of the consequences of turning away from God, emphasizing the seriousness of sin and the reality of divine retribution.

if I enter the city
Cities in ancient Israel, often fortified and bustling with life, were centers of commerce, governance, and community. The Hebrew word for "city" is "עִיר" (ir). Jeremiah's mention of entering the city suggests seeking refuge or normalcy, yet even these places are not spared from suffering. This highlights the pervasive nature of the calamity, affecting both rural and urban areas alike.

I see the ravages of famine
Famine (רָעָב, ra'av) is a severe shortage of food, often seen in the Bible as a consequence of disobedience to God. In the ancient Near East, famine was a devastating event, leading to social and economic collapse. The "ravages" indicate not just the physical effects of hunger but also the moral and spiritual degradation that accompanies such desperation. This phrase underscores the comprehensive judgment upon the land, affecting every aspect of life.

For both prophet and priest
Prophets (נָבִיא, navi) and priests (כֹּהֵן, kohen) were spiritual leaders in Israel, responsible for guiding the people in God's ways. Their mention here signifies the failure of spiritual leadership, as they too are caught in the judgment. This reflects a broader theme in Jeremiah: the corruption and inadequacy of those who were supposed to lead the nation in righteousness.

travel to a land they do not know
The phrase "a land they do not know" evokes the theme of exile, a central element in Jeremiah's prophecies. The Hebrew word for "land" is "אֶרֶץ" (eretz), often used to denote the Promised Land. The leaders' journey to an unknown land symbolizes the loss of identity and divine favor. Historically, this foreshadows the Babylonian exile, where the people of Judah were taken from their homeland as a result of their persistent disobedience.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Jeremiah
The prophet who conveyed God's messages to the people of Judah, warning them of impending judgment due to their unfaithfulness.

2. Field
Represents the areas outside the city where battles occurred, leading to many being slain by the sword.

3. City
Symbolizes the place where people sought refuge but faced the agonies of famine due to the siege and lack of resources.

4. Prophet and Priest
Religious leaders who were expected to guide the people spiritually but were failing in their duties, as they did not truly know or follow God.

5. Famine and Sword
Consequences of the people's disobedience and the resulting judgment from God, leading to widespread suffering and death.

Teaching Points

The Consequences of Disobedience
The passage highlights the severe consequences of turning away from God, including physical and spiritual suffering.

The Role of Spiritual Leaders
Prophets and priests are called to lead with integrity and true knowledge of God. Their failure can lead to widespread spiritual decay.

The Reality of Judgment
God's judgment is real and affects all aspects of life, as seen in the devastation of both the field and the city.

The Importance of True Knowledge
Knowing God is more than a superficial understanding; it requires a deep, personal relationship and adherence to His ways.

Hope in Repentance
While the passage is bleak, it serves as a call to repentance, reminding us that turning back to God can restore and heal.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the imagery of the field and the city in Jeremiah 14:18 reflect the comprehensive nature of God's judgment?

2. In what ways can modern spiritual leaders ensure they truly "know" God and lead their congregations faithfully?

3. How do the themes of famine and sword in Jeremiah 14:18 relate to the spiritual consequences of sin in our lives today?

4. What steps can we take to deepen our knowledge of God and avoid the pitfalls of ignorance as seen in the prophets and priests?

5. How can the message of Jeremiah 14:18 inspire us to seek repentance and restoration in our personal and communal lives?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Lamentations 2:20-21
This passage also describes the dire consequences of famine and sword, highlighting the suffering in Jerusalem.

Ezekiel 7:15
Similar themes of sword and famine as judgments upon the people, emphasizing the severity of God's wrath due to sin.

Hosea 4:6
Speaks to the lack of knowledge among the people and their leaders, leading to destruction, paralleling the ignorance of the prophets and priests in Jeremiah 14:18.