2 Thou shalt not take thee a wife, neither shalt thou have sons or daughters in this place.
2 "You must not marry and have sons or daughters in this place."
2 "You shall not take a wife, nor shall you have sons or daughters in this place.
2 "Jeremiah, don't get married. Don't raise a family here.
2 "You shall not take a wife, nor shall you have sons or daughters in this place."
2 "Do not get married or have children in this place.
Matthew Henry's Commentary on Jeremiah 16:2
Commentary on Jeremiah 16:1-9
(Read Jeremiah 16:1-9)
The prophet must conduct himself as one who expected to see his country ruined very shortly. In the prospect of sad times, he is to abstain from marriage, mourning for the dead, and pleasure. Those who would convince others of the truths of God, must make it appear by their self-denial, that they believe it themselves. Peace, inward and outward, family and public, is wholly the work of God, and from his loving-kindness and mercy. When He takes his peace from any people, distress must follow. There may be times when it is proper to avoid things otherwise our duty; and we should always sit loose to the pleasures and concerns of this life.