Jeremiah 23:10

"Concerning the prophets: My heart within me is broken. All my bones shake. I am like a drunken man, and like a man whom wine has overcome, because of the LORD, and because of his holy words."

Key Reflection

Jeremiah's declaration in Jeremiah 23:10 reflects the profound emotional impact of divine revelation. For the original audience, this vivid imagery—of a prophet’s heart breaking and bones shaking—conveys the weight of God’s message. The prophet likens himself to one overcome by wine, signifying the intense emotional and spiritual depth of his experience as he bears witness to God's truth, emphasizing both the personal impact and the divine authority behind these words.

From the Scholars: Barnes' Notes

Because of swearing -Rather, because of the curse denounced against sinJeremiah 11:3. The mourning probably refers to the droughtJeremiah 12:4. The pleasant places - “Pastures.” Their course -Their mode of life. Their force is not right - “Their heroism,” that on which they pride themselves as mighty men, “is not right,” is wrong (seeJeremiah 8:6note).

More from Jeremiah 23

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