King James Version
Jeremiah 15:12 in the King James Version says “Shall iron break the northern iron and the steel?” — study this verse from Jeremiah chapter 15 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.
“Shall iron break the northern iron and the steel?”
Jeremiah 15:12 · KJV
Woe is me, my mother, that thou hast borne me a man of strife and a man of contention to the whole earth! I have neither lent on usury, nor men have lent to me on usury; yet every one of them doth curse me.
The LORD said, Verily it shall be well with thy remnant ; verily I will cause the enemy to entreat thee well in the time of evil and in the time of affliction. cause: or, intreat the enemy for thee
Shall iron break the northern iron and the steel?
Thy substance and thy treasures will I give to the spoil without price, and that for all thy sins, even in all thy borders.
And I will make thee to pass with thine enemies into a land which thou knowest not: for a fire is kindled in mine anger, which shall burn upon you.
KJV Study — Public Domain
“break”
H7489properly, to spoil (literally, by breaking to pieces); figuratively, to make (or be) good for nothing, i.e., bad (physically, socially or morally)
“the northern”
H6828properly, hidden, i.e., dark; used only of the north as a quarter (gloomy and unknown)
“and the steel”
H5178copper, hence, something made of that metal, i.e., coin, a fetter; figuratively, base (as compared with gold or silver)
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.
Jeremiah 15:12 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.
Verses related to Jeremiah 15:12 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge