For from the least of them even unto the greatest of them every one is given to covetousness; and from the prophet even unto the priest every one dealeth falsely.
From the smallest person to the most important person, everyone is greedy for more. And from the prophets to the priests, everyone acts dishonestly.
God is pointing out that corruption has spread through every level of society - both ordinary people and religious leaders have become greedy and dishonest.
📚 Historical Context
During the time of the prophet Jeremiah in the 6th century BC, the kingdom of Judah was experiencing widespread moral and spiritual decline amid threats from the Babylonian Empire. This verse highlights how greed and dishonesty had corrupted every social stratum, from the poorest citizens to the wealthiest elites, including religious figures like prophets and priests. Jeremiah's warnings were part of his broader message of impending judgment from God due to the nation's unfaithfulness to the covenant.
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