Jeremiah 16:3 Meaning and Explanation
“For thus saith the LORD concerning the sons and concerning the daughters that are born in this place, and concerning their mothers that bare them, and concerning their fathers that begat them in this land;”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →God explains that He is addressing the fate of all people—children, mothers, and fathers.
The Context of Jeremiah 16:3
The explanation of why God forbids Jeremiah's marriage begins.
What Does Jeremiah 16:3 Mean?
The verse begins to explain why Jeremiah cannot have a family: God will judge all generations in the land. The repetition of 'sons,' 'daughters,' 'mothers,' and 'fathers' emphasizes that no one—young or old, male or female—will escape judgment. The destruction will be comprehensive and cut across all family relationships.
By naming each member of the family unit, God highlights how thoroughly judgment will reach. The covenant people will experience loss across every generational line, making the coming judgment unavoidable and total.
Frequently Asked Questions About Jeremiah 16:3
What does Jeremiah 16:3 mean?
God explains that He is addressing the fate of all people—children, mothers, and fathers.
What is the context of Jeremiah 16:3?
The explanation of why God forbids Jeremiah's marriage begins.