King James Version

What Does Jeremiah 8:18 Mean?

“When I would comfort myself against sorrow, my heart is faint in me. in: Heb. upon”

Context

The snorting of his horses was heard from Dan: the whole land trembled at the sound of the neighing of his strong ones; for they are come, and have devoured the land, and all that is in it; the city, and those that dwell therein. all: Heb. the fulness thereof

For, behold, I will send serpents, cockatrices, among you, which will not be charmed, and they shall bite you, saith the LORD.

When I would comfort myself against sorrow, my heart is faint in me. in: Heb. upon

Behold the voice of the cry of the daughter of my people because of them that dwell in a far country: Is not the LORD in Zion? is not her king in her? Why have they provoked me to anger with their graven images, and with strange vanities? them: Heb. the country of them that are far off

The harvest is past, the summer is ended, and we are not saved.

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Topics in This Verse

Comfort

Commentary

Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers

(18) **When I would comfort myself . . .**—The word translated *comfort *is not found elsewhere, and has been very differently understood. Taking the words as spoken after a pause, they come as a cry of sorrow following the proclamation of the judgment of Jehovah, *Ah, my comfort against sorrow! *(mourning for it as dead and gone); *my heart is sick within me. *The latter phrase is the same as in Isaiah 1:5.

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 8:18 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.