King James Version

What Does Jeremiah 4:26 Mean?

Jeremiah 4:26 in the King James Version says “I beheld, and, lo, the fruitful place was a wilderness, and all the cities thereof were broken down at the presence of t...” — study this verse from Jeremiah chapter 4 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.

“I beheld, and, lo, the fruitful place was a wilderness, and all the cities thereof were broken down at the presence of the LORD, and by his fierce anger.”

Jeremiah 4:26 · KJV

Context

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.

26

I beheld, and, lo, the fruitful place was a wilderness, and all the cities thereof were broken down at the presence of the LORD, and by his fierce anger.

27

For thus hath the LORD said, The whole land shall be desolate; yet will I not make a full end.

28

For this shall the earth mourn, and the heavens above be black: because I have spoken it, I have purposed it, and will not repent, neither will I turn back from it.

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Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
Detailed theological analysis of Jeremiah 4:26 with Hebrew word studies, doctrinal significance, and connections to broader biblical themes. This would reference original language terms, explain theological concepts, and show how the verse fits into redemptive history and points to Christ.

KJV Study — Public Domain

Historical & Cultural Context

Historical and cultural context for Jeremiah 4:26, including the time period during Jeremiah's ministry (627-586 BC), the political situation with Babylon's rise to power, and how this verse relates to Judah's covenant unfaithfulness and coming judgment.

Reflection Questions

  1. How does Jeremiah 4:26 challenge your understanding of God's character and His dealings with His people?
  2. What practical application can you draw from Jeremiah 4:26 for your walk with Christ today?

Original Language Analysis

Hebrew · 12 words
רָאִ֕יתִי1 of 12

“I beheld”

H7200

to see, literally or figuratively (in numerous applications, direct and implied, transitive, intransitive and causative)

וְהִנֵּ֥ה2 of 12
H2009

lo!

הַכַּרְמֶ֖ל3 of 12

“and lo the fruitful place”

H3759

a planted field (garden, orchard, vineyard or park); by implication, garden produce

הַמִּדְבָּ֑ר4 of 12

“was a wilderness”

H4057

a pasture (i.e., open field, whither cattle are driven); by implication, a desert

וְכָל5 of 12
H3605

properly, the whole; hence, all, any or every (in the singular only, but often in a plural sense)

עָרָ֗יו6 of 12

“and all the cities”

H5892

a city (a place guarded by waking or a watch) in the widest sense (even of a mere encampment or post)

נִתְּצוּ֙7 of 12

“thereof were broken down”

H5422

to tear down

מִפְּנֵ֖י8 of 12

“at the presence”

H6440

the face (as the part that turns); used in a great variety of applications (literally and figuratively); also (with prepositional prefix) as a preposi

יְהוָ֔ה9 of 12

“of the LORD”

H3068

(the) self-existent or eternal; jeho-vah, jewish national name of god

מִפְּנֵ֖י10 of 12

“at the presence”

H6440

the face (as the part that turns); used in a great variety of applications (literally and figuratively); also (with prepositional prefix) as a preposi

חֲר֥וֹן11 of 12

“and by his fierce”

H2740

a burning of anger

אַפּֽוֹ׃12 of 12

“anger”

H639

properly, the nose or nostril; hence, the face, and occasionally a person; also (from the rapid breathing in passion) ire

Study Guide

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 4:26 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 4:26 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

Psalms 107:34Deuteronomy 29:23-28Micah 3:12Jeremiah 14:2-6Isaiah 5:9-10Jeremiah 12:4

Test Your Knowledge

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