King James Version

What Does Jeremiah 4:8 Mean?

“For this gird you with sackcloth, lament and howl: for the fierce anger of the LORD is not turned back from us.”

Context

Set up the standard toward Zion: retire, stay not: for I will bring evil from the north, and a great destruction. retire: or, strengthen destruction: Heb. breaking

The lion is come up from his thicket, and the destroyer of the Gentiles is on his way; he is gone forth from his place to make thy land desolate; and thy cities shall be laid waste, without an inhabitant.

For this gird you with sackcloth, lament and howl: for the fierce anger of the LORD is not turned back from us.

And it shall come to pass at that day, saith the LORD, that the heart of the king shall perish, and the heart of the princes; and the priests shall be astonished, and the prophets shall wonder.

Then said I, Ah, Lord GOD! surely thou hast greatly deceived this people and Jerusalem, saying, Ye shall have peace; whereas the sword reacheth unto the soul.

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Commentary

Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers

(8) **Gird you with sackcloth.**—From the earliest times the outward sign of mourning, and therefore of repentance (Joel 1:8; Isaiah 22:12).

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 4:8 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.