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Book of Jeremiah - Chapter 7 - Verse 32

7:32
Therefore, behold, the days come, saith the LORD, that it shall no more be called Tophet, nor the valley of the son of Hinnom, but the valley of slaughter: for they shall bury in Tophet, till there be no place.

Meaning

In this verse from Jeremiah 7:32, the prophet Jeremiah speaks of a future time when the valley of Hinnom, also known as Tophet, will no longer be a place of child sacrifice and burning, but of slaughter and burial. Tophet was a site outside Jerusalem where the Israelites had once offered their children as sacrifices to the pagan god Moloch. However, the Lord declares that a time will come when this valley will be renamed the valley of slaughter, as it will become a place of death and burial for those who have incurred God's judgment. The imagery here is one of divine retribution and punishment for the people's sins, as the valley that once symbolized abomination and evil will be transformed into a place of destruction and desolation. It serves as a powerful warning of the consequences of disobeying God's commands and engaging in wicked practices. The verse emphasizes the severity of God's judgment and the importance of repentance and obedience to avoid facing His wrath.

Theological Overview

Jeremiah 7:32 is a chilling prophetic declaration from the LORD regarding the judgment that will hit the land of Judah. The use of the name Tophet, which refers to a place of pagan child sacrifices, and the valley of Hinnom, symbolizing the depths of wickedness and suffering, highlights the extent of the sinfulness in the land. The LORD announces a transformative work, where these places will be renamed the valley of slaughter, signifying the destruction that will come upon the people due to their disobedience. The imagery of burial in Tophet until there is no room left speaks to the severity of the judgment that will be carried out by the LORD. The theological interpretation of this verse emphasizes the LORD's justice, righteousness, and the inevitable consequences of continued disobedience. It serves as a reminder of the importance of obedience and the serious repercussions of turning away from God.

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