Both the great and the small shall die in this land: they shall not be buried, neither shall men lament for them, nor cut themselves, nor make themselves bald for them:
Both important people and ordinary people will die in this land. They won't be buried, and no one will mourn for them or cut themselves or shave their heads as signs of grief.
God is warning that a devastating judgment is coming where so many people will die that normal burial and mourning customs won't even be possible.
📚 Historical Context
Jeremiah was prophesying during the final decades before Babylon destroyed Jerusalem in 586 BC. This verse describes the complete social breakdown that would occur during the siege and conquest, when death would be so widespread that traditional funeral practices would be abandoned. Cutting oneself and shaving the head were common ancient Near Eastern mourning rituals that showed deep grief.
Explore Similar Verses
Ask the AI Assistant
Have a question about this chapter or verse? Ask below for a clear explanation.