Definition: And let that man be as the cities which the LORD overthrew, and repented not: and let him hear the cry in the morning, and the shouting at noontide;

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Jeremiah 20:16. It's a really powerful and dramatic statement about a person who refused to repent after causing significant trouble. Here’s a simplified explanation: The Basic Idea: This verse describes someone who acted in a way that was incredibly destructive and upsetting, and then stubbornly refused to acknowledge their mistake or change their behavior. It paints a picture of someone who deliberately caused chaos and suffering. Let's unpack it word by word: “And let that man be as the cities which the LORD overthrew…” – This is the core of the image. Jeremiah is comparing this person to powerful, destroyed cities. The Lord (God) has repeatedly destroyed cities throughout history because of their wickedness and rebellion. Think of them as being ravaged by war, famine, or other disasters. “…and repented not:” - This is a crucial part. It means the person didn’t show remorse or regret for what they had done. They didn't acknowledge that their actions were wrong or harmful. They continued to act as if everything was okay. “And let him hear the cry in the morning, and the shouting at noontime.” – This is a very strong image. The “cry” represents the suffering and pain caused by their actions. The "shouting at noontime" symbolizes a constant, angry, and disruptive presence of their negativity. It’s like a persistent, overwhelming sound of anger and frustration. So, what does it mean ? It's suggesting that this person was so focused on their own wickedness and rebellion that they didn’t take responsibility for the harm they caused. They continued to act in a way that brought misery to others, even after being confronted with the consequences of their actions. It speaks to a lack of empathy and a refusal to change. Overall Significance: This verse is often interpreted as a warning against stubbornness, willful defiance, and the importance of acknowledging wrongdoing. It highlights the need for repentance – a sincere turning away from sin and seeking forgiveness – to truly be reconciled with God and others. --- To help me explain it even better and tailor it to your needs, could you tell me: What's your current understanding of this verse? (Do you have any initial thoughts or questions?) Why are you interested in learning about this verse? (Are you studying a particular Bible story, looking for deeper meaning, or just curious?)