What does Jeremiah 31:30 mean?
"But every one shall die for his own iniquity: every man that eateth the sour grape, his teeth shall be set on edge." - Jeremiah 31:30

Jeremiah 31:30 in the King James Version of the Bible states, "But every one shall die for his own iniquity: every man that eateth the sour grape, his teeth shall be set on edge." This verse is part of a larger passage in the book of Jeremiah, which is known for its themes of suffering, repentance, and hope. The book was written by the prophet Jeremiah, who lived during a tumultuous time in Israel's history, and his words were directed towards the people of Judah, warning them of the impending destruction of Jerusalem and the Babylonian exile.
The verse has a strong emphasis on personal responsibility and the consequences of one's actions. It conveys the idea that each individual is accountable for their own sins and will have to face the consequences, rather than being punished for the sins of their ancestors. This concept is a recurring theme throughout the Bible, and it emphasizes the importance of personal repentance and righteousness.
The metaphor of the "sour grape" and the teeth being set on edge is a vivid and evocative image, symbolizing the bitter taste of the consequences of sin. It serves as a warning to the people of Judah, urging them to turn away from their sinful ways and seek forgiveness and reconciliation with God.
In the larger context of the book of Jeremiah, this verse is part of a series of prophecies that speak to the future restoration and redemption of the people of Judah. Despite the impending destruction and exile, Jeremiah offers a message of hope, promising that God will make a new covenant with the people and restore them to their land. This message of hope is a consistent theme throughout the book, serving as a reminder that even in the midst of suffering and despair, God's faithfulness and mercy endure.
The verse also speaks to the broader theological concept of sin and its consequences. It affirms the biblical principle that God is just and righteous, and that individuals will ultimately be held accountable for their actions. This idea is echoed throughout the Bible, particularly in the Old Testament, where the concept of divine justice and judgment is central to the understanding of God's relationship with humanity.
From a historical and cultural perspective, this verse reflects the religious beliefs and practices of ancient Israel, where the concept of personal accountability and collective responsibility played a significant role in their worldview. It also reflects the impact of the Babylonian exile on the people of Judah, as they grappled with the theological and existential questions surrounding their suffering and the destruction of their homeland.
In summary, Jeremiah 31:30 in the King James Version of the Bible conveys a message of personal responsibility, divine justice, and hope for redemption. It is a powerful and evocative reminder of the consequences of sin and the enduring faithfulness of God, making it a significant and thought-provoking passage within the larger context of the book of Jeremiah and the biblical narrative as a whole.
Have questions about Jeremiah 31:30?
Dive deeper into this scripture with Bible Chat — an AI-powered tool for exploring God's Word through conversation. Ask questions, get context, and grow in your understanding of the Bible.
Get Our Apps
Jeremiah 31:30 Artwork
Jeremiah 31:30 - "But every one shall die for his own iniquity: every man that eateth the sour grape, his teeth shall be set on edge."
"But every one shall die for his own iniquity: every man that eateth the sour grape, his teeth shall be set on edge." - Jeremiah 31:30
Jeremiah 31:31-33
Jeremiah 31:31-33
Matthew 24:30-31
Matthew 24:30-31
Matthew 24:30-31
Matthew 24:30-31
Matthew 24:30-31
Matthew 24:30-31
Matthew 24:30-31
Matthew 24:30-31
Matthew 24:30-31
Matthew 24:30-31
John 20:30-31
Jeremiah 30:1 - "The word that came to Jeremiah from the LORD, saying,"
Jeremiah 29:30 - "¶ Then came the word of the LORD unto Jeremiah, saying,"
1 Kings 11:30-31
1 Kings 11:30-31
1 Kings 11:30-31
Jeremiah 31:31 - "¶ Behold, the days come, saith the LORD, that I will make a new covenant with the house of Israel, and with the house of Judah:"
Proverbs 30:31 - "A greyhound; an he goat also; and a king, against whom there is no rising up."
Isaiah 30:31 - "For through the voice of the LORD shall the Assyrian be beaten down, which smote with a rod."
Job 30:31 - "My harp also is turned to mourning, and my organ into the voice of them that weep."
Proverbs 31:30 - "Favour is deceitful, and beauty is vain: but a woman that feareth the LORD, she shall be praised."
Jeremiah 5:30 - "¶ A wonderful and horrible thing is committed in the land;"
"¶ Then came the word of the LORD unto Jeremiah, saying," - Jeremiah 29:30
"The word that came to Jeremiah from the LORD, saying," - Jeremiah 30:1
Job 31:30 - "Neither have I suffered my mouth to sin by wishing a curse to his soul."
Deuteronomy 31:30 - "And Moses spake in the ears of all the congregation of Israel the words of this song, until they were ended."