Jeremiah 8:14 Meaning and Explanation
“Why do we sit still? assemble yourselves, and let us enter into the defenced cities, and let us be silent there: for the LORD our God hath put us to silence, and given us water of gall to drink, because we have sinned against the LORD.”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →People flee to fortified cities seeking refuge, but God has silenced them and given them bitter consequences.
The Context of Jeremiah 8:14
Panic and retreat to fortified cities, coupled with awareness of God's judgment.
What Does Jeremiah 8:14 Mean?
In panic, the people organize a retreat to defensible cities, hoping walls and gates will save them. Yet they are oddly resigned—'let us be silent there'—as if they know fortifications cannot ultimately protect against divine judgment. This resignation reveals a glimmer of awareness.
God 'hath put us to silence'—taking away voice and hope. He has given them 'water of gall,' bitter water representing the bitter taste of consequences. They finally acknowledge 'because we have sinned against the LORD,' connecting their military crisis to their spiritual rebellion.
Jeremiah 8:14 in the Original Language
rosh (רֹאשׁ), 'gall'—bitterness, poison; often refers to a poisonous plant.
Frequently Asked Questions About Jeremiah 8:14
What does Jeremiah 8:14 mean?
People flee to fortified cities seeking refuge, but God has silenced them and given them bitter consequences.
What is the context of Jeremiah 8:14?
Panic and retreat to fortified cities, coupled with awareness of God's judgment.