Jeremiah 9:1

Oh, that my head were a spring of water, and my eyes a fountain of tears! I would weep day and night over the slain daughter of my people.

Study Bible

Oh, that my head were a spring of water
The phrase begins with a deep expression of longing and lamentation. The Hebrew word for "head" here is "rosh," which often signifies the beginning or the topmost part, indicating the source of thought and emotion. The imagery of a "spring of water" suggests an unending source of tears, symbolizing profound grief. In ancient Israel, water was a precious resource, and a spring represented life and sustenance. Here, it is used to convey the depth of Jeremiah's sorrow, as if his head could produce an endless flow of tears to match his overwhelming grief.

and my eyes a fountain of tears!
The "eyes" in Hebrew, "ayin," are often seen as the windows to the soul, reflecting one's innermost feelings. A "fountain of tears" amplifies the metaphor of continuous weeping, indicating an intense emotional response. In the cultural context of the time, public displays of mourning were common, and tears were a visible sign of one's sorrow and empathy. Jeremiah's desire for his eyes to be a fountain underscores his deep compassion and the weight of the burden he carries for his people.

I would weep day and night
The commitment to "weep day and night" emphasizes the prophet's relentless sorrow and dedication to mourning. The Hebrew words "yomam" (day) and "laylah" (night) suggest a ceaseless cycle, indicating that Jeremiah's grief knows no bounds or respite. This reflects the biblical theme of persistent prayer and lamentation, as seen in other scriptures where God's people cry out continuously for deliverance or in repentance.

for the slain of the daughter of my people
The term "slain" refers to those who have been killed, often in battle or as a result of divine judgment. The "daughter of my people" is a poetic expression used to personify the nation of Israel, highlighting the familial and intimate connection between the prophet and his people. In the historical context, this lamentation is set against the backdrop of impending or actual destruction due to the Babylonian invasion. Jeremiah's grief is not just for the physical loss of life but for the spiritual and communal devastation that has befallen Israel. This phrase encapsulates the heart of a prophet who deeply loves his people and mourns their suffering and estrangement from God.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Jeremiah
The prophet who is expressing deep sorrow and lamentation over the spiritual and physical state of his people, Israel.

2. The Daughter of My People
A poetic reference to the people of Israel, often used to express a close, familial relationship and deep affection.

3. The Slain
Refers to those who have suffered or will suffer due to the impending judgment and destruction because of the nation's sins.

4. Israel
The nation chosen by God, which is facing judgment due to its persistent disobedience and idolatry.

5. Judgment
The event of divine retribution that Jeremiah foresees as a consequence of Israel's unfaithfulness.

Teaching Points

The Heart of a Prophet
Jeremiah's lamentation reveals the heart of a true prophet who deeply cares for his people and grieves over their sin and its consequences. We are called to have a compassionate heart for those who are lost and suffering.

The Consequences of Sin
The verse highlights the serious consequences of sin, both spiritually and physically. It serves as a reminder to examine our own lives and repent from anything that separates us from God.

Intercessory Prayer
Jeremiah's tears can be seen as a form of intercession. We are encouraged to pray fervently for our communities and nations, asking God for mercy and revival.

Hope Amidst Despair
While the verse is filled with sorrow, it also points to the hope that God hears the cries of His people and is compassionate. We can trust in God's ultimate plan for redemption and restoration.

Empathy and Action
Jeremiah's example challenges us to not only feel empathy but also to take action where possible, whether through prayer, service, or sharing the Gospel.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Jeremiah's expression of sorrow in this verse challenge our own response to the sin and suffering we see around us?

2. In what ways can we cultivate a heart of compassion similar to Jeremiah's for those who are spiritually lost?

3. How do the consequences of Israel's disobedience in Jeremiah's time relate to the consequences of sin in our own lives today?

4. What role does intercessory prayer play in our response to the spiritual state of our communities and nations?

5. How can we find hope and encouragement in God's promises amidst the lament and sorrow expressed in this verse?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Lamentations 1:16
This verse echoes Jeremiah's deep sorrow and weeping over Jerusalem's desolation, showing a consistent theme of lamentation.

Psalm 119:136
The psalmist's tears over those who do not follow God's law parallel Jeremiah's grief for his people's disobedience.

Matthew 23:37
Jesus laments over Jerusalem, showing a continuity of God's sorrow over His people's rejection and disobedience.

Romans 9:2-3
Paul expresses great sorrow and unceasing anguish for his fellow Israelites, similar to Jeremiah's lament.

Revelation 21:4
Offers hope that God will wipe away every tear, contrasting the current sorrow with future restoration.