Definition: We acknowledge, O LORD, our wickedness, [and] the iniquity of our fathers: for we have sinned against thee.

Explanation: Okay, let's break down this verse from Jeremiah 14:20. It’s a really important and sobering part of the book. Here's what it means in plain language: Basically, it says: “We understand that we’ve done wrong, and we’re guilty of it.” Let’s unpack each part: “We acknowledge, O LORD…” – This is a formal acknowledgement. It’s not just a casual statement; it's a recognition of something serious. “…our wickedness…” – “Wickedness” means acting badly, being morally wrong, and causing harm to God and others. It’s going beyond simple mistakes; it’s deliberate wrongdoing. “and the iniquity of our fathers…” – This is a really crucial part. "Iniquity" is a fancy word that means “evil deeds” or “moral failings.” The verse says, "the evil deeds of our ancestors." It's not just about individual mistakes; it’s about the legacy of bad behavior passed down through generations. “for we have sinned against thee.” – This is the core of the verse. “Sinning” means breaking God’s rules or doing something that’s wrong and displeasing to Him. The verse says, "we have sinned against you." It's saying that we , as a people, have broken God's law and are sorry for it. What does this mean in a big picture? Jeremiah is writing about a time when the Israelites were facing serious problems – they were becoming increasingly selfish, greedy, and prone to violence. He’s essentially saying that their history is filled with bad behavior, and their ancestors' actions have contributed to this. It’s a warning that if we don’t change our ways, we will face serious consequences. Why is this important? The verse points to a crucial point: our sins don’t just affect us individually; they impact the entire community. It suggests that God doesn't just punish people for their individual mistakes; He punishes all of humanity when we fail to follow His laws. It implies a responsibility for our actions and a need for repentance and change. In short, it’s a plea for humility and acknowledging the consequences of our choices. --- Do you want me to: Explain this verse in more detail? Give you some examples of how this verse might be applied today? Compare this verse to another similar passage in the Bible?