King James Version

What Does Jeremiah 8:21 Mean?

“For the hurt of the daughter of my people am I hurt; I am black; astonishment hath taken hold on me.”

Context

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.

For the hurt of the daughter of my people am I hurt; I am black; astonishment hath taken hold on me.

Is there no balm in Gilead; is there no physician there? why then is not the health of the daughter of my people recovered? recovered: Heb. gone up?

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Commentary

Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers

(21) **For the hurt . . .**—Now the prophet again speaks in his own person. He is *crushed *in that *crushing *of his people. His face is *darkened, *as one that mourns. (Comp. Psalm 38:6; Joshua 5:11.)

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 8:21 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.