Jeremiah 5:21 Meaning and Explanation
“Hear now this, O foolish people, and without understanding; which have eyes, and see not; which have ears, and hear not:”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →Jeremiah addresses the people directly, calling them foolish and blind—having sensory capacity but unable to perceive truth.
The Context of Jeremiah 5:21
Jeremiah addresses the people, calling them foolish and accusing them of spiritual blindness despite having the capacity to perceive truth.
What Does Jeremiah 5:21 Mean?
Jeremiah opens his direct address with a sharp rebuke. The people are 'foolish' (lacking wisdom and discernment) and 'without understanding' (unable to grasp God's truth and law). The verse then employs a powerful paradox: they have eyes but do not see, ears but do not hear. This is not physical blindness and deafness but spiritual insensitivity. They possess the faculties to perceive God's word and His works, yet they have closed themselves to truth.
This echoes Isaiah 6 and reflects a spiritual condition of self-imposed blindness. The people have rejected so many warnings and signs that they have become incapable of perceiving truth. Yet the rebuke implies that they are culpable for this condition—it is not imposed on them but chosen. They could see and hear if they would open themselves to God's word. The appeal to 'hear now' calls them to recognize their spiritual state and repent.
Jeremiah 5:21 in the Original Language
naval (נָבָל), 'foolish' — lacking wisdom and discernment; morally and spiritually insensitive.
Frequently Asked Questions About Jeremiah 5:21
What does Jeremiah 5:21 mean?
Jeremiah addresses the people directly, calling them foolish and blind—having sensory capacity but unable to perceive truth.
What is the context of Jeremiah 5:21?
Jeremiah addresses the people, calling them foolish and accusing them of spiritual blindness despite having the capacity to perceive truth.