Jeremiah 5:8

They were as fed horses in the morning: euery one neighed after his neighbours wife: Jeremiah 5:8 (KJV)

Context: The book of Jeremiah is a prophetic book in the Old Testament. Jeremiah was a prophet called by God to deliver messages of warning and judgment to the people of Judah, especially during a time of great apostasy and idolatry. Although this saying is sometimes linked to Jeremiah, it does not occur in the KJV version of the book.

Symbolic Language: In this saying the speaker uses symbolic language to illustrate sinful behavior. He compares the people to “fed horses” – in one rendering “fed horses” and in another “fed horses in the morning” – who eagerly seek after their neighbor’s wife. The image of well‑fed horses emphasizes insatiable desires and a lack of self‑control.

Adultery and Infidelity: The reference to being “mad after his neighbour’s wife” or “neighing after his neighbour’s wife” is a metaphorical expression of adultery and infidelity. It represents the people’s unfaithfulness to their own spouses and a disregard for the sanctity of marriage. This reflects the broader theme of spiritual adultery, where the people of Judah have forsaken their covenant relationship with God and turned to idolatry.

Consequences of Sin: The passage highlights the moral and spiritual decay of the people. Their sinful behavior brings severe consequences, both individually and collectively. The pursuit of selfish desires and the violation of sacred relationships ultimately lead to brokenness, strife, and divine judgment.