Definition: Then said the LORD unto me, Pray not for this people for [their] good.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Jeremiah 14:11. It’s a really important and often difficult passage to understand, so we'll go through it step-by-step. Here’s what it means in simple terms: The Basic Idea: This verse is about God’s concern for the people of Judah (a specific region in Israel) and his willingness to not offer them any special help or blessings, even if they seem good. It's a bit unsettling because it suggests a potential problem with the people. Let’s unpack it: “Then said the LORD unto me…” : This is God speaking directly to the prophet Jeremiah. He’s giving him a specific instruction. “…Pray not for this people for [their] good.” : This is the core of the verse. The Lord isn't asking Jeremiah to help them. Instead, he’s saying that he does not want to offer any assistance or favor to the people of Judah. What does this mean in practice? The context surrounding this verse points to a serious situation: Jeremiah is prophesying about a time when Judah was facing immense hardship and destruction – war, famine, and rebellion. The Lord is saying that He’s aware of this impending disaster and isn't going to intervene to make things better for them. Possible Interpretations & Why it’s Complex: This verse has been debated for centuries, and there are different ways to interpret it: God’s Sovereignty: Some believe it reflects God’s complete sovereignty – that He is in control of events and doesn't interfere with human choices. It suggests a level of acceptance of their fate. A Warning: It could be interpreted as a warning to Judah to turn away from their sins and seek God's guidance before it's too late. God’s Protection: Others view it as a demonstration of God's protective nature, shielding them from harm even if they don’t deserve it. Important Note: The exact meaning is debated among theologians and biblical scholars. It’s often seen as a moment of profound distance between God and humanity, where He is observing without intervention. In short, this verse expresses a significant level of detachment and perhaps a bit of sadness from the Lord, knowing about the impending problems facing Judah. --- Do you want me to: Explain any specific aspect of this verse in more detail? Explore related biblical passages that discuss God’s relationship with his people?