King James Version

What Does Jeremiah 10:8 Mean?

“But they are altogether brutish and foolish: the stock is a doctrine of vanities. altogether: Heb. in one, or, at once”

Context

Forasmuch as there is none like unto thee, O LORD; thou art great, and thy name is great in might.

Who would not fear thee, O King of nations? for to thee doth it appertain: forasmuch as among all the wise men of the nations, and in all their kingdoms, there is none like unto thee. to: or, it liketh thee

But they are altogether brutish and foolish: the stock is a doctrine of vanities. altogether: Heb. in one, or, at once

Silver spread into plates is brought from Tarshish, and gold from Uphaz, the work of the workman, and of the hands of the founder: blue and purple is their clothing: they are all the work of cunning men.

But the LORD is the true God, he is the living God, and an everlasting king: at his wrath the earth shall tremble, and the nations shall not be able to abide his indignation. true: Heb. God of truth everlasting: Heb. king of eternity

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Commentary

Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers

(8) **Altogether.**—Literally, *in one, *probably in the sense *in one word, in one fact, sc., *that which follows in the next clause. **The stock is a doctrine of vanities.**—Better, inverting the subject and predicate, *the teaching of vanities *(*i.e., *of idols) *is a word, *or *is a log. *That is all it comes to; that one word is its condemnation.

Charles John Ellicott (1819–1905). Public Domain.

Historical Context

This verse is found in the book of Jeremiah. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.

Theological Significance

Jeremiah 10:8 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.