Jeremiah 48:39 - “How it is broken down! How they wail! How Moab has turned the back with shame! So will Moab become a derision and a terror to all who are around him.”

Generated Verse: Jeremiah 48:39

What does "Jeremiah 48:39" mean?


This verse from Jeremiah 48:39 is a pronouncement of judgment against Moab, a nation bordering Israel to the east. Let's break down the meaning:

"How it is broken down! How they wail!" This sets the scene of utter devastation and mourning. Moab has been utterly destroyed, and the people are wailing in grief and lament. The "broken down" aspect could refer to the collapse of their cities, their military, their social structure, and their sense of security.

"How Moab has turned the back with shame!" This suggests that Moab has suffered a humiliating defeat. "Turning the back" symbolizes being routed in battle, forced to retreat in disgrace. They're fleeing, overwhelmed, and ashamed of their failure.

"So will Moab become a derision and a terror to all who are around him." This is the consequence of their downfall. Moab will become an object of mockery ("derision") for surrounding nations. People will laugh at their misfortune. Furthermore, their downfall will also serve as a warning ("terror") to other nations. The completeness of Moab's destruction will inspire fear in others, making them aware of the potential consequences of defying God (as Jeremiah's prophecies often framed the political events of the time).

In essence, the verse conveys a complete and devastating judgment against Moab. It highlights their destruction, shame, and future humiliation, serving as a warning to other nations about the consequences of opposing God (within the context of Jeremiah's prophecies). It emphasizes the totality of their ruin – not only have they suffered military defeat, but they have also lost their honor and become an object of scorn.

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