King James Version
Jeremiah 20:17 in the King James Version says “Because he slew me not from the womb; or that my mother might have been my grave, and her womb to be always great with m...” — study this verse from Jeremiah chapter 20 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.
“Because he slew me not from the womb; or that my mother might have been my grave, and her womb to be always great with me.”
Jeremiah 20:17 · KJV
Cursed be the man who brought tidings to my father, saying, A man child is born unto thee; making him very glad.
And let that man be as the cities which the LORD overthrew, and repented not: and let him hear the cry in the morning, and the shouting at noontide ;
Because he slew me not from the womb; or that my mother might have been my grave, and her womb to be always great with me.
Wherefore came I forth out of the womb to see labour and sorrow, that my days should be consumed with shame?
KJV Study — Public Domain
who, which, what, that; also (as an adverb and a conjunction) when, where, how, because, in order that, etc
not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles
to exist, i.e., be or become, come to pass (always emphatic, and not a mere copula or auxiliary)
“or that my mother”
H517a mother (as the bond of the family); in a wide sense (both literally and figuratively [like father])
“to be always”
H5769properly, concealed, i.e., the vanishing point; generally, time out of mind (past or future), i.e., (practically) eternity; frequentatively, adverbial
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 20:17 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 20:17 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge