Jeremiah 25:36

A voice of the cry of the shepherds, and an howling of the principal of the flock, [shall be heard]: for the LORD hath spoiled their pasture.

A voice {H6963} of the cry {H6818} of the shepherds {H7462}, and an howling {H3215} of the principal {H117} of the flock {H6629}, shall be heard: for the LORD {H3068} hath spoiled {H7703} their pasture {H4830}.

Hear the cry of the shepherds, the wails of the lords of the flock! For ADONAI is destroying their pasture,

Hear the cry of the shepherds, the wailing of the leaders of the flock, for the LORD is destroying their pasture.

A voice of the cry of the shepherds, and the wailing of the principal of the flock! for Jehovah layeth waste their pasture.

Context of Jeremiah 25:36

Jeremiah 25 is a pivotal chapter in the book of Jeremiah, serving as a comprehensive prophecy detailing God's judgment not only upon Judah but also upon surrounding nations. The preceding verses in this chapter speak of the "seventy years" of Babylonian captivity for Judah (Jeremiah 25:11) and introduce the powerful imagery of the "cup of the wine of this fury" that all nations must drink (Jeremiah 25:15). Verse 36 specifically focuses on the leaders of Judah, metaphorically referred to as "shepherds" and the "principal of the flock." These terms denote the kings, princes, priests, and false prophets who were responsible for guiding the nation but had instead led them astray. The "pasture" symbolizes their land, prosperity, and position of power, which God declares He will "spoil" or devastate.

Key Themes and Messages

  • Divine Judgment on Corrupt Leadership: This verse highlights the severe consequences awaiting those in positions of authority who neglect their responsibilities and lead their people into sin. The "cry" and "howling" signify intense anguish and despair, a direct result of their failure to shepherd the flock righteously.
  • God's Sovereignty in Calamity: The phrase "for the LORD hath spoiled their pasture" underscores that the impending destruction is not a random misfortune but a deliberate act of divine judgment. God is actively involved in bringing about justice for the persistent disobedience of His people and their leaders.
  • Desolation and Loss: The imagery of spoiled pasture evokes a scene of utter ruin and deprivation. It speaks to the complete removal of the comfort, security, and power that the leaders once enjoyed, leaving them in a state of lamentation. This serves as a stark warning about the ultimate futility of earthly power when it is not aligned with God's will.

Linguistic Insights

The KJV word "howling" comes from the Hebrew term yelalah (יְלָלָה), which conveys a deep, mournful wailing or lamentation, often associated with great disaster, sorrow, or terror. It's a cry of distress that expresses utter hopelessness, far beyond a simple shout. The "principal of the flock" translates the Hebrew addirey hatzon (אַדִּירֵי הַצֹּאן), meaning "mighty ones of the flock" or "chiefs of the flock," emphasizing the high status and influence of these leaders.

Practical Application

Jeremiah 25:36 serves as a timeless reminder of the accountability of leadership. Whether in spiritual, political, or community roles, those who guide others bear a heavy responsibility. This verse warns against:

  • Neglect of Duty: Leaders must diligently care for those under their charge, guiding them in righteousness and truth.
  • Abuse of Power: Authority should be used for the welfare of the people, not for personal gain or oppression.
  • Ignoring God's Warnings: The "shepherds" of Judah ignored Jeremiah's prophetic warnings, leading to their downfall. We are called to heed divine wisdom and instruction.
Ultimately, this verse teaches that God holds leaders responsible for their actions and that His justice will prevail, leading to lamentation for those who fail to uphold their sacred trust.

Note: Commentary was generated by an advanced AI, utilizing a prompt that emphasized Biblical fidelity over bias. We've found these insights to be consistently reliable, yet we always encourage prayerful discernment through the Holy Spirit. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

  • Jeremiah 4:8

    For this gird you with sackcloth, lament and howl: for the fierce anger of the LORD is not turned back from us.

  • Jeremiah 25:34

    Howl, ye shepherds, and cry; and wallow yourselves [in the ashes], ye principal of the flock: for the days of your slaughter and of your dispersions are accomplished; and ye shall fall like a pleasant vessel.

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