King James Version
What Does Jeremiah 4:23 Mean?
“I beheld the earth, and, lo, it was without form, and void; and the heavens, and they had no light.”
Context
21
How long shall I see the standard, and hear the sound of the trumpet?
22
For my people is foolish, they have not known me; they are sottish children, and they have none understanding: they are wise to do evil, but to do good they have no knowledge.
23
I beheld the earth, and, lo, it was without form, and void; and the heavens, and they had no light.
24
I beheld the mountains, and, lo, they trembled, and all the hills moved lightly.
25
I beheld, and, lo, there was no man, and all the birds of the heavens were fled.
Commentary
Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers(23) **I beheld the earth.**—In words of terrible grandeur the prophet speaks, as if he had already seen the consummated destruction; and repeating the words “I beheld,” as if he had passed through four distinct visions, describes its completeness.
**Without form, and void.**—An obvious quotation from the *tohu va-bohu *of Genesis 1:2. The goodly land of Israel was thrown back, as it were, into a formless chaos, before the words “Let there be light” had brought it into order.
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 4:23 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.
Cross-References
Verses related to Jeremiah 4:23
Cross-references from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge