Definition: And let them make haste, and take up a wailing for us, that our eyes may run down with tears, and our eyelids gush out with waters.
Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Jeremiah 9:18. It's a really powerful and somewhat unsettling passage about the future of Israel. Here’s what it means in simpler terms: The Core Idea: This verse describes a future time when God will be incredibly angry with his people – specifically, Israel – and they will cry out in despair and pain. It’s saying that God is going to unleash a great outpouring of sorrow and tears upon them. Let's unpack it piece by piece: “And let them make haste…” : This suggests a sense of urgency and impending doom. It’s not just a suggestion; it implies a time for action, perhaps a desperate attempt to appease God. “…and take up a wailing for us…” : This is the key part. It's not just a quiet lament; it’s a loud, prolonged cry of grief and pain. “Wailing” here means sobbing, lamenting, and expressing deep sorrow. “That our eyes may run down with tears…” : This describes the physical manifestation of this emotional outpouring – tears streaming down faces. It's a visual representation of their heartbreak. “…and our eyelids gush out with waters.” : This is a more dramatic image. It’s suggesting that these tears will be so intense they flow out like a flood, overflowing with water. This could symbolize the outpouring of God’s anger or punishment. Overall Interpretation: The verse paints a picture of a time when God is deeply disappointed and furious with Israel. It's a warning about the consequences of their sins and a call for repentance. It suggests that this isn't just sadness, but a massive outpouring of pain and potentially destructive force. Important Note: This verse is often interpreted as a prophecy of judgment and punishment for Israel’s disobedience to God. It’s a serious warning, but it’s also part of a larger story within the Old Testament about God’s relationship with his people. --- Do you want me to: Explain another verse from Jeremiah? Discuss the historical context of this passage? Explore what the verse might symbolize in a broader theological sense?