Jeremiah 14:9 Meaning and Explanation
“Why shouldest thou be as a man astonied, as a mighty man that cannot save? yet thou, O LORD, art in the midst of us, and we are called by thy name; leave us not.”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →Despite God's apparent powerlessness or shock, He dwells with His people—so He cannot abandon them now.
The Context of Jeremiah 14:9
Jeremiah appeals to God's presence and covenant relationship even during His apparent absence.
What Does Jeremiah 14:9 Mean?
The prayer draws a logical contradiction. God cannot act as though He is powerless—as a mighty man frozen in astonishment unable to save. Yet the prayer holds firm: God is genuinely 'in the midst of us.' This is not sentiment but covenant reality. The people bear His name. Any abandonment would violate God's own nature and commitment.
The petition moves from question to claim to plea. Because God is present and because the people belong to His name, the prayer appeals for Him to act consistently with what He is. The logic is not 'we deserve help' but 'you cannot abandon those who are yours.' Leave us not' becomes the cry of those holding God to His covenant.
Jeremiah 14:9 in the Original Language
astonied (שָׁמַם), 'astonished' or 'appalled' — too shocked to act.
Frequently Asked Questions About Jeremiah 14:9
What does Jeremiah 14:9 mean?
Despite God's apparent powerlessness or shock, He dwells with His people—so He cannot abandon them now.
What is the context of Jeremiah 14:9?
Jeremiah appeals to God's presence and covenant relationship even during His apparent absence.