Zephaniah 2:15
Zephaniah 2:15 in Multiple Translations
This carefree city that dwells securely, that thinks to herself: “I am it, and there is none besides me,” what a ruin she has become, a resting place for beasts. Everyone who passes by her hisses and shakes his fist.
This is the rejoicing city that dwelt carelessly, that said in her heart, I am, and there is none beside me: how is she become a desolation, a place for beasts to lie down in! every one that passeth by her shall hiss, and wag his hand.
This is the joyous city that dwelt carelessly, that said in her heart, I am, and there is none besides me: how is she become a desolation, a place for beasts to lie down in! every one that passeth by her shall hiss, and wag his hand.
This is the town which was full of joy, living without fear of danger, saying in her heart, I am, and there is no other: how has she been made waste, a place for beasts to take their rest in! everyone who goes by her will make hisses, waving his hand.
This is what will happen to this triumphant city that thought it was so secure. “Look at me!” it said proudly to itself. “There is no city as great as me!” But it has become a desolate place—just a home for wild animals. Everyone who passes by will point their finger and laugh in derision.
This is the reioycing citie that dwelt carelesse, that said in her heart, I am, and there is none besides me: how is she made waste, and the lodging of the beastes! euery one that passeth by her, shall hisse and wagge his hand.
This [is] the exulting city that is dwelling confidently, That is saying in her heart, 'I [am], and beside me there is none,' How hath she been for a desolation, A crouching-place for beasts, Every one passing by her doth hiss, He doth shake his hand!
This is the joyous city that lived carelessly, that said in her heart, “I am, and there is no one besides me.” How she has become a desolation, a place for animals to lie down in! Everyone who passes by her will hiss and shake their fists.
This is the rejoicing city that dwelt in security, that said in her heart, I am , and there is none besides me: how is she become a desolation, a place for beasts to lie down in! every one that passeth by her shall hiss, and wag his hand.
This is the glorious city that dwelt in security: that said in her heart: I am, and there is none beside me: how is she become a desert, a place for beasts to lie down in? every one that passeth by her, shall hiss, and wag his hand.
The people of Nineveh were previously happy and proud, thinking that they were very safe. They were always saying, “Our city is the greatest city; there is no city as great as ours!” But now it will become a ruins, a place where wild animals make their dens. And everyone who passes by there will hiss and scorn/ridicule that city, and shake their fists to show that they detest that city very much.
Berean Amplified Bible — Zephaniah 2:15
BAB
Word Study
Hover over any word to see its amplified meaning. Click a word to explore its full definition and translation comparisons.
Amplified text is generated using scripting to tie together English translations for comparison. Always refer to the core BSB translation and original Hebrew/Greek text for accuracy. Anomalies may occur.
Zephaniah 2:15 Interlinear (Deep Study)
BIB
HEB
זֹ֞֠את
הָ/עִ֤יר
הָ/עַלִּיזָה֙
הַ/יּוֹשֶׁ֣בֶת
לָ/בֶ֔טַח
הָ/אֹֽמְרָה֙
בִּ/לְבָבָ֔/הּ
אֲנִ֖י
וְ/אַפְסִ֣/י
ע֑וֹד
אֵ֣יךְ
הָיְתָ֣ה
לְ/שַׁמָּ֗ה
מַרְבֵּץ֙
לַֽ/חַיָּ֔ה
כֹּ֚ל
עוֹבֵ֣ר
עָלֶ֔י/הָ
יִשְׁרֹ֖ק
יָנִ֥יעַ
יָדֽ/וֹ
זֹ֞֠את
zôʼth
H2063
this
Pron
הָ/עִ֤יר
ʻîyr
H5892
excitement
Art | N-fs
הָ/עַלִּיזָה֙
ʻallîyz
H5947
jubilant
Art | Adj
הַ/יּוֹשֶׁ֣בֶת
yâshab
H3427
to dwell
Art | V-Qal
לָ/בֶ֔טַח
beṭach
H983
security
Prep | N-ms
הָ/אֹֽמְרָה֙
ʼâmar
H559
to say
Art | V-Qal
בִּ/לְבָבָ֔/הּ
lêbâb
H3824
heart
Prep | N-ms | Suff
אֲנִ֖י
ʼănîy
H589
I
Pron
וְ/אַפְסִ֣/י
ʼepheç
H657
end
Conj | N-ms | Suff
ע֑וֹד
ʻôwd
H5750
still
Adv
אֵ֣יךְ
ʼêyk
H349
how?
Part
הָיְתָ֣ה
hâyâh
H1961
to be
V-Qal-Perf-3fs
לְ/שַׁמָּ֗ה
shammâh
H8047
horror
Prep | N-fs
מַרְבֵּץ֙
marbêts
H4769
resting
N-ms
לַֽ/חַיָּ֔ה
chay
H2416
alive
Prep | N-fs
כֹּ֚ל
kôl
H3605
all
N-ms
עוֹבֵ֣ר
ʻâbar
H5674
to pass
V-Qal
עָלֶ֔י/הָ
ʻal
H5921
upon
Prep | Suff
יִשְׁרֹ֖ק
shâraq
H8319
to whistle
V-Qal-Imperf-3ms
יָנִ֥יעַ
nûwaʻ
H5128
to shake
V-Hiphil-Imperf-3ms
יָדֽ/וֹ
yâd
H3027
hand
N-cs | Suff
Hebrew Word Study
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Hebrew Word Reference — Zephaniah 2:15
זֹ֞֠את
zôʼth
H2063
"this"
Pron
This Hebrew word means this or that, often used to point out something specific. It appears in various forms throughout the Old Testament.
Definition: 1) this, this one, here, which, this...that, the one...the other, such 1a) (alone) 1a1) this one 1a2) this...that, the one...the other, another 1b) (appos to subst) 1b1) this 1c) (as predicate) 1c1) this, such 1d) (enclitically) 1d1) then 1d2) who, whom 1d3) how now, what now 1d4) what now 1d5) wherefore now 1d6) behold here 1d7) just now 1d8) now, now already 1e) (poetry) 1e1) wherein, which, those who 1f) (with prefixes) 1f1) in this (place) here, then 1f2) on these conditions, herewith, thus provided, by, through this, for this cause, in this matter 1f3) thus and thus 1f4) as follows, things such as these, accordingly, to that effect, in like manner, thus and thus 1f5) from here, hence, on one side...on the other side 1f6) on this account 1f7) in spite of this, which, whence, how
Usage: Occurs in 570 OT verses. KJV: hereby (-in, -with), it, likewise, the one (other, same), she, so (much), such (deed), that, therefore, these, this (thing), thus. See also: Genesis 2:23; Numbers 7:88; Judges 1:27.
הָ/עִ֤יר
ʻîyr
H5892
"excitement"
Art | N-fs
In the Bible, this word refers to a city or town, often a place with a wall or a watchman. It is used to describe a settlement or encampment, like the city of Ai, which is mentioned in the book of Joshua. The word is used to identify specific locations in the Bible.
Definition: 1) excitement, anguish 1a) of terror
Usage: Occurs in 936 OT verses. KJV: Ai (from margin), city, court (from margin), town. See also: Genesis 4:17; Deuteronomy 3:6; Joshua 14:12.
הָ/עַלִּיזָה֙
ʻallîyz
H5947
"jubilant"
Art | Adj
This Hebrew word means feeling jubilant or exultant, like being full of joy. It's used to describe people rejoicing in the Bible, such as in Psalm 51. It's about being happy and celebratory.
Definition: exultant, jubilant
Usage: Occurs in 7 OT verses. KJV: joyous, (that) rejoice(-ing) See also: Isaiah 13:3; Isaiah 24:8; Isaiah 22:2.
הַ/יּוֹשֶׁ֣בֶת
yâshab
H3427
"to dwell"
Art | V-Qal
This verb means to sit or dwell, and can also mean to remain or abide. It's used in the Bible to describe people living in a place or staying with someone, like in the book of Genesis.
Definition: 1) to dwell, remain, sit, abide 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to sit, sit down 1a2) to be set 1a3) to remain, stay 1a4) to dwell, have one's abode 1b) (Niphal) to be inhabited 1c) (Piel) to set, place 1d) (Hiphil) 1d1) to cause to sit 1d2) to cause to abide, set 1d3) to cause to dwell 1d4) to cause (cities) to be inhabited 1d5) to marry (give an dwelling to) 1e) (Hophal) 1e1) to be inhabited 1e2) to make to dwell Aramaic equivalent: ye.tiv (יְתִב "to dwell" H3488)
Usage: Occurs in 977 OT verses. KJV: (make to) abide(-ing), continue, (cause to, make to) dwell(-ing), ease self, endure, establish, [idiom] fail, habitation, haunt, (make to) inhabit(-ant), make to keep (house), lurking, [idiom] marry(-ing), (bring again to) place, remain, return, seat, set(-tle), (down-) sit(-down, still, -ting down, -ting (place) -uate), take, tarry. See also: Genesis 4:16; Leviticus 25:18; Joshua 13:6.
לָ/בֶ֔טַח
beṭach
H983
"security"
Prep | N-ms
Security refers to a feeling of safety or refuge, like a place where one can feel protected, as the Bible describes God as a rock or fortress, providing assurance and hope to those who trust in Him.
Definition: 1) security, safety adv 2) securely
Usage: Occurs in 41 OT verses. KJV: assurance, boldly, (without) care(-less), confidence, hope, safe(-ly, -ty), secure, surely. See also: Genesis 34:25; Isaiah 14:30; Psalms 4:9.
הָ/אֹֽמְרָה֙
ʼâmar
H559
"to say"
Art | V-Qal
This Hebrew word means to say or speak, and it's used in many different ways in the Bible. It can mean to command, promise, or think, and it's translated in the KJV as 'answer', 'appoint', or 'command'.
Definition: 1) to say, speak, utter 1a) (Qal) to say, to answer, to say in one's heart, to think, to command, to promise, to intend 1b) (Niphal) to be told, to be said, to be called 1c) (Hithpael) to boast, to act proudly 1d) (Hiphil) to avow, to avouch Aramaic equivalent: a.mar (אֲמַר "to say" H0560)
Usage: Occurs in 4337 OT verses. KJV: answer, appoint, avouch, bid, boast self, call, certify, challenge, charge, [phrase] (at the, give) command(-ment), commune, consider, declare, demand, [idiom] desire, determine, [idiom] expressly, [idiom] indeed, [idiom] intend, name, [idiom] plainly, promise, publish, report, require, say, speak (against, of), [idiom] still, [idiom] suppose, talk, tell, term, [idiom] that is, [idiom] think, use (speech), utter, [idiom] verily, [idiom] yet. See also: Genesis 1:3; Genesis 18:23; Genesis 25:32.
בִּ/לְבָבָ֔/הּ
lêbâb
H3824
"heart"
Prep | N-ms | Suff
The heart is the innermost part of a person, including their mind, will, and emotions. In the book of Psalms, David talks about his heart being heavy with sorrow, while in the book of Proverbs, it discusses the importance of guarding one's heart.
Definition: 1) inner man, mind, will, heart, soul, understanding 1a) inner part, midst 1a1) midst (of things) 1a2) heart (of man) 1a3) soul, heart (of man) 1a4) mind, knowledge, thinking, reflection, memory 1a5) inclination, resolution, determination (of will) 1a6) conscience 1a7) heart (of moral character) 1a8) as seat of appetites 1a9) as seat of emotions and passions 1a10) as seat of courage Aramaic equivalent: le.vav (לְבַב "heart" H3825)
Usage: Occurs in 230 OT verses. KJV: [phrase] bethink themselves, breast, comfortably, courage, ((faint), (tender-) heart(-ed), midst, mind, [idiom] unawares, understanding. See also: Genesis 20:5; 1 Chronicles 17:2; Psalms 4:5.
אֲנִ֖י
ʼănîy
H589
"I"
Pron
This Hebrew word is a simple way of saying 'I' or 'me', often used for emphasis. It is used by people like David in the Psalms to express their thoughts and feelings. The word is a basic part of the Hebrew language.
Definition: I (first pers. sing. -usually used for emphasis)
Usage: Occurs in 803 OT verses. KJV: I, (as for) me, mine, myself, we, [idiom] which, [idiom] who. See also: Genesis 6:17; Leviticus 19:36; 1 Samuel 25:24.
וְ/אַפְסִ֣/י
ʼepheç
H657
"end"
Conj | N-ms | Suff
This word can mean the soles of the feet or the ankles, but it can also mean an end or a stop to something. In Deuteronomy 28:35, it describes a curse that will afflict the Israelites from the soles of their feet to the top of their head.
Definition: 1) ceasing, end, finality 2) expressing non-existence
Usage: Occurs in 43 OT verses. KJV: ankle, but (only), end, howbeit, less than nothing, nevertheless (where), no, none (beside), not (any, -withstanding), thing of nought, save(-ing), there, uttermost part, want, without (cause). See also: Numbers 13:28; Isaiah 5:8; Psalms 2:8.
ע֑וֹד
ʻôwd
H5750
"still"
Adv
The word 'still' means something continues or happens again, like in Genesis 29:26 and Isaiah 2:11. It can also mean 'more' or 'additionally'.
Definition: subst 1) a going round, continuance adv 2) still, yet, again, besides 2a) still, yet (of continuance or persistence) 2b) still, yet, more (of addition or repetition) 2c) again 2d) still, moreover, besides Aramaic equivalent: od (עוֹד "still" H5751)
Usage: Occurs in 459 OT verses. KJV: again, [idiom] all life long, at all, besides, but, else, further(-more), henceforth, (any) longer, (any) more(-over), [idiom] once, since, (be) still, when, (good, the) while (having being), (as, because, whether, while) yet (within). See also: Genesis 4:25; Judges 9:37; 2 Chronicles 32:16.
אֵ֣יךְ
ʼêyk
H349
"how?"
Part
In the Bible, this word means 'how' or 'where', like in Genesis when God asks Adam 'where are you'. It's also used to express surprise or excitement.
Definition: interrog adv how?
Usage: Occurs in 74 OT verses. KJV: how, what. See also: Genesis 26:9; Ecclesiastes 2:16; Psalms 11:1.
הָיְתָ֣ה
hâyâh
H1961
"to be"
V-Qal-Perf-3fs
The Hebrew word for to be means to exist or come into being. It is used to describe something that happens or comes to pass, like in Genesis where God creates the world.
Definition: 1) to be, become, come to pass, exist, happen, fall out 1a) (Qal) 1a1) --- 1a1a) to happen, fall out, occur, take place, come about, come to pass 1a1b) to come about, come to pass 1a2) to come into being, become 1a2a) to arise, appear, come 1a2b) to become 1a2b1) to become 1a2b2) to become like 1a2b3) to be instituted, be established 1a3) to be 1a3a) to exist, be in existence 1a3b) to abide, remain, continue (with word of place or time) 1a3c) to stand, lie, be in, be at, be situated (with word of locality) 1a3d) to accompany, be with 1b) (Niphal) 1b1) to occur, come to pass, be done, be brought about 1b2) to be done, be finished, be gone
Usage: Occurs in 3131 OT verses. KJV: beacon, [idiom] altogether, be(-come), accomplished, committed, like), break, cause, come (to pass), do, faint, fall, [phrase] follow, happen, [idiom] have, last, pertain, quit (one-) self, require, [idiom] use. See also: Genesis 1:2; Genesis 17:4; Genesis 36:11.
לְ/שַׁמָּ֗ה
shammâh
H8047
"horror"
Prep | N-fs
Shammâh refers to a state of horror or ruin, often describing a waste or desolate land. It can also mean consternation or appalment, and is used in the Bible to describe the aftermath of war or disaster.
Definition: : destroyed/waste 1) waste, horror, appalment 1a) a waste (of land, city, etc) 1b) appalment, horror Also means: sham.mah (שַׁמָּה ": appalled" H8047H)
Usage: Occurs in 39 OT verses. KJV: astonishment, desolate(-ion), waste, wonderful thing. See also: Deuteronomy 28:37; Jeremiah 29:18; Psalms 46:9.
מַרְבֵּץ֙
marbêts
H4769
"resting"
N-ms
This word refers to a place where animals rest or lie down, like a fold for sheep. It is a spot where creatures can relax and feel safe. The KJV translates it as a couching place.
Definition: 1) place of lying down, resting or dwelling place 1a) of wild beasts
Usage: Occurs in 2 OT verses. KJV: couching place, place to lie down. See also: Ezekiel 25:5; Zephaniah 2:15.
לַֽ/חַיָּ֔ה
chay
H2416
"alive"
Prep | N-fs
In the Bible, this word means life or being alive. It can refer to physical life, like in Genesis 1:20, or spiritual life, like in Psalm 30:5.
Definition: adj 1) living, alive 1a) green (of vegetation) 1b) flowing, fresh (of water) 1c) lively, active (of man) 1d) reviving (of the springtime) Aramaic equivalent: chay (חַי "living" H2417)
Usage: Occurs in 450 OT verses. KJV: [phrase] age, alive, appetite, (wild) beast, company, congregation, life(-time), live(-ly), living (creature, thing), maintenance, [phrase] merry, multitude, [phrase] (be) old, quick, raw, running, springing, troop. See also: Genesis 1:20; Deuteronomy 4:9; 2 Kings 5:16.
כֹּ֚ל
kôl
H3605
"all"
N-ms
The Hebrew word for 'all' or 'everything' is used throughout the Bible, like in Genesis 1:31, where God sees all He has made as very good. It encompasses the entirety of something, whether people, things, or situations.
Definition: 1) all, the whole 1a) all, the whole of 1b) any, each, every, anything 1c) totality, everything Aramaic equivalent: kol (כֹּל "all" H3606)
Usage: Occurs in 4242 OT verses. KJV: (in) all (manner, (ye)), altogether, any (manner), enough, every (one, place, thing), howsoever, as many as, (no-) thing, ought, whatsoever, (the) whole, whoso(-ever). See also: Genesis 1:21; Genesis 17:10; Genesis 41:40.
עוֹבֵ֣ר
ʻâbar
H5674
"to pass"
V-Qal
This verb can mean to cross over or transition from one thing to another, and is sometimes used to describe being arrogant or crossing a boundary.
Definition: 1) to pass over or by or through, alienate, bring, carry, do away, take, take away, transgress 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to pass over, cross, cross over, pass over, march over, overflow, go over 1a2) to pass beyond 1a3) to pass through, traverse 1a3a) passers-through (participle) 1a3b) to pass through (the parts of victim in covenant) 1a4) to pass along, pass by, overtake and pass, sweep by 1a4a) passer-by (participle) 1a4b) to be past, be over 1a5) to pass on, go on, pass on before, go in advance of, pass along, travel, advance 1a6) to pass away 1a6a) to emigrate, leave (one's territory) 1a6b) to vanish 1a6c) to perish, cease to exist 1a6d) to become invalid, become obsolete (of law, decree) 1a6e) to be alienated, pass into other hands 1b) (Niphal) to be crossed 1c) (Piel) to impregnate, cause to cross 1d) (Hiphil) 1d1) to cause to pass over, cause to bring over, cause to cross over, make over to, dedicate, devote 1d2) to cause to pass through 1d3) to cause to pass by or beyond or under, let pass by 1d4) to cause to pass away, cause to take away 1e) (Hithpael) to pass over
Usage: Occurs in 493 OT verses. KJV: alienate, alter, [idiom] at all, beyond, bring (over, through), carry over, (over-) come (on, over), conduct (over), convey over, current, deliver, do away, enter, escape, fail, gender, get over, (make) go (away, beyond, by, forth, his way, in, on, over, through), have away (more), lay, meddle, overrun, make partition, (cause to, give, make to, over) pass(-age, along, away, beyond, by, -enger, on, out, over, through), (cause to, make) [phrase] proclaim(-amation), perish, provoke to anger, put away, rage, [phrase] raiser of taxes, remove, send over, set apart, [phrase] shave, cause to (make) sound, [idiom] speedily, [idiom] sweet smelling, take (away), (make to) transgress(-or), translate, turn away, (way-) faring man, be wrath. See also: Genesis 8:1; Deuteronomy 27:2; 1 Samuel 25:19.
עָלֶ֔י/הָ
ʻal
H5921
"upon"
Prep | Suff
This Hebrew word means on or above something, like a physical object or a situation. It can also imply a sense of responsibility or accountability, as in being on behalf of someone.
Definition: prep 1) upon, on the ground of, according to, on account of, on behalf of, concerning, beside, in addition to, together with, beyond, above, over, by, on to, towards, to, against 1a) upon, on the ground of, on the basis of, on account of, because of, therefore, on behalf of, for the sake of, for, with, in spite of, notwithstanding, concerning, in the matter of, as regards 1b) above, beyond, over (of excess) 1c) above, over (of elevation or pre-eminence) 1d) upon, to, over to, unto, in addition to, together with, with (of addition) 1e) over (of suspension or extension) 1f) by, adjoining, next, at, over, around (of contiguity or proximity) 1g) down upon, upon, on, from, up upon, up to, towards, over towards, to, against (with verbs of motion) 1h) to (as a dative)
Usage: Occurs in 4493 OT verses. KJV: above, according to(-ly), after, (as) against, among, and, [idiom] as, at, because of, beside (the rest of), between, beyond the time, [idiom] both and, by (reason of), [idiom] had the charge of, concerning for, in (that), (forth, out) of, (from) (off), (up-) on, over, than, through(-out), to, touching, [idiom] with. See also: Genesis 1:2; Genesis 24:13; Genesis 41:33.
יִשְׁרֹ֖ק
shâraq
H8319
"to whistle"
V-Qal-Imperf-3ms
To whistle or hiss is the meaning of this Hebrew word, used to express scorn or call out to someone. In the Bible, it appears in books like Job and Jeremiah, often as a sign of derision or warning.
Definition: 1) to hiss, whistle, pipe 1a) (Qal) to hiss (as a signal)
Usage: Occurs in 12 OT verses. KJV: hiss. See also: 1 Kings 9:8; Jeremiah 50:13; Isaiah 5:26.
יָנִ֥יעַ
nûwaʻ
H5128
"to shake"
V-Hiphil-Imperf-3ms
To shake means to move back and forth, like trembling with fear, as described in the book of Isaiah. It can also mean to be unstable or to wander, like the Israelites in the wilderness.
Definition: 1) to quiver, totter, shake, reel, stagger, wander, move, sift, make move, wave, waver, tremble 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to wave, quiver, vibrate, swing, stagger, tremble, be unstable 1a2) to totter, go tottering 1a2a) vagabond (participle) 1b) (Niphal) to be tossed about or around 1c) (Hiphil) 1c1) to toss about 1c2) to shake, cause to totter 1c3) to shake, disturb 1c4) to cause to wander
Usage: Occurs in 36 OT verses. KJV: continually, fugitive, [idiom] make, to (go) up and down, be gone away, (be) move(-able, -d), be promoted, reel, remove, scatter, set, shake, sift, stagger, to and fro, be vagabond, wag, (make) wander (up and down). See also: Genesis 4:12; Psalms 109:25; Psalms 22:8.
יָדֽ/וֹ
yâd
H3027
"hand"
N-cs | Suff
In the Bible, 'yad' refers to an open hand, symbolizing power or direction. It can also mean strength or a part of something, like a side or a share. The word is used in many contexts, including anatomy and everyday life.
Definition: : hand/arm[anatomy] 1) hand 1a) hand (of man) 1b) strength, power (fig.) 1c) side (of land), part, portion (metaph.) (fig.) 1d) (various special, technical senses) 1d1) sign, monument 1d2) part, fractional part, share 1d3) time, repetition 1d4) axle-trees, axle 1d5) stays, support (for laver) 1d6) tenons (in tabernacle) 1d7) a phallus, a hand (meaning unsure) 1d8) wrists
Usage: Occurs in 1446 OT verses. KJV: ([phrase] be) able, [idiom] about, [phrase] armholes, at, axletree, because of, beside, border, [idiom] bounty, [phrase] broad, (broken-) handed, [idiom] by, charge, coast, [phrase] consecrate, [phrase] creditor, custody, debt, dominion, [idiom] enough, [phrase] fellowship, force, [idiom] from, hand(-staves, -y work), [idiom] he, himself, [idiom] in, labour, [phrase] large, ledge, (left-) handed, means, [idiom] mine, ministry, near, [idiom] of, [idiom] order, ordinance, [idiom] our, parts, pain, power, [idiom] presumptuously, service, side, sore, state, stay, draw with strength, stroke, [phrase] swear, terror, [idiom] thee, [idiom] by them, [idiom] themselves, [idiom] thine own, [idiom] thou, through, [idiom] throwing, [phrase] thumb, times, [idiom] to, [idiom] under, [idiom] us, [idiom] wait on, (way-) side, where, [phrase] wide, [idiom] with (him, me, you), work, [phrase] yield, [idiom] yourselves. See also: Genesis 3:22; Exodus 7:19; Leviticus 14:22.
Study Notes — Zephaniah 2:15
Show Verse Quote Highlights
- Context
- Cross References
- Zephaniah 2:15 Summary
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Reflection Questions
- Gill's Exposition on Zephaniah 2:15
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown on Zephaniah 2:15
- Matthew Poole's Commentary on Zephaniah 2:15
- Trapp's Commentary on Zephaniah 2:15
- Ellicott's Commentary on Zephaniah 2:15
- Adam Clarke's Commentary on Zephaniah 2:15
- Cambridge Bible on Zephaniah 2:15
- Barnes' Notes on Zephaniah 2:15
- Whedon's Commentary on Zephaniah 2:15
- Sermons on Zephaniah 2:15
Context — Judgment on Cush and Assyria
13And He will stretch out His hand against the north and destroy Assyria; He will make Nineveh a desolation, as dry as a desert.
14Herds will lie down in her midst, creatures of every kind. Both the desert owl and screech owl will roost atop her pillars. Their calls will sound from the window, but desolation will lie on the threshold, for He will expose the beams of cedar.
15This carefree city that dwells securely, that thinks to herself: “I am it, and there is none besides me,” what a ruin she has become, a resting place for beasts. Everyone who passes by her hisses and shakes his fist.
Cross References
| Reference | Text (BSB) | |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Ezekiel 28:2 | “Son of man, tell the ruler of Tyre that this is what the Lord GOD says: Your heart is proud, and you have said, ‘I am a god; I sit in the seat of gods in the heart of the sea.’ Yet you are a man and not a god, though you have regarded your heart as that of a god. |
| 2 | Isaiah 22:2 | O city of commotion, O town of revelry? Your slain did not die by the sword, nor were they killed in battle. |
| 3 | Isaiah 47:7–8 | You said, ‘I will be queen forever.’ You did not take these things to heart or consider their outcome. So now hear this, O lover of luxury who sits securely, who says to herself, ‘I am, and there is none besides me. I will never be a widow or know the loss of children.’ |
| 4 | Nahum 3:19 | There is no healing for your injury; your wound is severe. All who hear the news of you applaud your downfall, for who has not experienced your constant cruelty? |
| 5 | Lamentations 2:15 | All who pass by clap their hands at you in scorn. They hiss and shake their heads at the Daughter of Jerusalem: “Is this the city that was called the perfection of beauty, the joy of all the earth?” |
| 6 | Ezekiel 28:9 | Will you still say, ‘I am a god,’ in the presence of those who slay you? You will be only a man, not a god, in the hands of those who wound you. |
| 7 | Lamentations 1:1 | How lonely lies the city, once so full of people! She who was great among the nations has become a widow. The princess of the provinces has become a slave. |
| 8 | Jeremiah 19:8 | I will make this city a desolation and an object of scorn. All who pass by will be appalled and will scoff at all her wounds. |
| 9 | Ezekiel 29:3 | Speak to him and tell him that this is what the Lord GOD says: Behold, I am against you, O Pharaoh king of Egypt, O great monster who lies among his rivers, who says, ‘The Nile is mine; I made it myself.’ |
| 10 | Revelation 18:7–19 | As much as she has glorified herself and lived in luxury, give her the same measure of torment and grief. In her heart she says, ‘I sit as queen; I am not a widow and will never see grief.’ Therefore her plagues will come in one day— death and grief and famine— and she will be consumed by fire, for mighty is the Lord God who judges her.” Then the kings of the earth who committed sexual immorality and lived in luxury with her will weep and wail at the sight of the smoke rising from the fire that consumes her. In fear of her torment, they will stand at a distance and cry out: “Woe, woe to the great city, the mighty city of Babylon! For in a single hour your judgment has come.” And the merchants of the earth will weep and mourn over her, because there is no one left to buy their cargo— cargo of gold, silver, precious stones, and pearls; of fine linen, purple, silk, and scarlet; of all kinds of citron wood and every article of ivory, precious wood, bronze, iron, and marble; of cinnamon, spice, incense, myrrh, and frankincense; of wine, olive oil, fine flour, and wheat; of cattle, sheep, horses, and chariots; of slaves and souls of men. And they will say: “The fruit of your soul’s desire has departed from you; all your luxury and splendor have vanished, never to be seen again.” The merchants who sold these things and grew their wealth from her will stand at a distance, in fear of her torment. They will weep and mourn, saying: “Woe, woe to the great city, clothed in fine linen and purple and scarlet, adorned with gold and precious stones and pearls! For in a single hour such fabulous wealth has been destroyed!” Every shipmaster, passenger, and sailor, and all who make their living from the sea, will stand at a distance and cry out at the sight of the smoke rising from the fire that consumes her. “What city was ever like this great city?” they will exclaim. Then they will throw dust on their heads as they weep and mourn and cry out: “Woe, woe to the great city, where all who had ships on the sea were enriched by her wealth! For in a single hour she has been destroyed.” |
Zephaniah 2:15 Summary
This verse is talking about a city that used to be very proud and thought it was the most important place in the world, but now it's empty and desolate, like a wilderness where animals roam. The city's pride and arrogance led to its downfall, as God opposes the proud, according to Proverbs 3:34. This is a warning to us to not be proud or think we're better than others, but to trust in God and recognize His sovereignty, as seen in Psalm 20:7-8. By humbling ourselves before God, we can avoid the same fate as this city and instead receive His grace and mercy.
Frequently Asked Questions
What city is being referred to in Zephaniah 2:15?
The city in question is Nineveh, the capital of Assyria, which is described in the preceding verses as a city that will be destroyed by God, as seen in Zephaniah 2:13-14 and also prophesied in the book of Nahum.
What is the significance of the city's statement 'I am it, and there is none besides me'?
This statement reflects the city's pride and arrogance, similar to the attitude of Babylon in Isaiah 47:8, which ultimately leads to its downfall, as God opposes the proud, according to Proverbs 3:34 and James 4:6.
Why is the city described as a 'resting place for beasts'?
This description signifies the city's desolation and abandonment, much like the desolate condition of Edom in Isaiah 34:11, where God's judgment has resulted in a place devoid of human habitation, left to the animals.
What is the significance of people hissing and shaking their fists at the city?
This action represents the scorn and contempt that the city will face from others, as seen in Lamentations 2:15-16, where the enemies of Jerusalem taunt and mock its downfall, and also in Psalm 22:7, where the psalmist is scorned by his enemies.
Reflection Questions
- What are some ways in which I may be reflecting the same pride and arrogance as the city in Zephaniah 2:15, and how can I humble myself before God?
- How can I apply the lesson of this verse to my own life, recognizing that God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble, as seen in Proverbs 3:34 and James 4:6?
- What are some areas in my life where I may be trusting in my own strength and security, rather than trusting in God's sovereignty and provision, as seen in Psalm 20:7-8?
- How can I cultivate a sense of dependence on God, recognizing that He is the one who brings down the proud and lifts up the humble, as seen in 1 Samuel 2:7-10?
Gill's Exposition on Zephaniah 2:15
This is the rejoicing city that dwelt carelessly,.... Once exceeding populous, and the inhabitants full of mirth and gaiety, abounding with wealth and riches, and indulging themselves in all carnal
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown on Zephaniah 2:15
This is the rejoicing city that dwelt carelessly, that said in her heart, I am, and there is none beside me: how is she become a desolation, a place for beasts to lie down in!
Matthew Poole's Commentary on Zephaniah 2:15
This is the rejoicing city: we may suppose the prophet, or the Jews, or all passengers, standing still and wondering, nay, upbraiding Nineveh, all mirth and jollity once, but now all sorrow and grief. That dwelt carelessly; in so great confidence and security, as if it had been impossible she should ever have fallen from her glory. That said in her heart; persuaded herself into an opinion very ill becoming any but God himself. There is none beside me; none that can contend with me, that will be so hardy as to attempt against me, none able to overthrow me. Somewhat like Tyre, , &o. How is she become a desolation! she thought none was like her in glory, power, and wealth. now there is none like her indeed, but it is for misery and desolations. It may be either the speech of one that laments and wonders at it, or of one that rejoiceth at it. A place for beasts to lie down in: where palaces for princes stood, now are places for beasts; where nobles dwelt, now do ignoble cattle couch. Shall hiss and wag his hand; deride their arrogancy, and condemn their ungodly pride and security, yet with some pity toward this desolate city.
Trapp's Commentary on Zephaniah 2:15
Zephaniah 2:15 This [is] the rejoicing city that dwelt carelessly, that said in her heart, I [am], and [there is] none beside me: how is she become a desolation, a place for beasts to lie down in! every one that passeth by her shall hiss, [and] wag his hand.Ver. 15. This is the rejoicing city] Exultabunda, that could stand on no ground, but was ready to leap out of her skin as it were; her inhabitants were mere mirthmongers altogether set upon the merry pin; like the people of Tombutum in Africa, who spend their whole time in singing and dancing. Now the case is altered, and the Church, out of zeal for God’ s glory, thus insulteth over them. That dwelt carelessly] As if situated in the clouds, above all fear; and altogether insuperable. Security ushereth in destruction. See Jeremiah 49:31-32. That said in her heart, I am, and there is none besides me] This was a proud word indeed. I am is one of God Almighty’ s names, Exodus 3:14, and there is none besides me is one of his titles, Isaiah 45:5; Isaiah 45:21; Isaiah 48:12. Thus empty man would be something (the toad would swell to the size of an ox), though man be born like a wild ass’ s colt, Job 11:12, and man being in honour, understandeth not that he is, or shortly shall be, like the beasts that perish: that die of the murrain, and so become carrion, good for nothing. “ Unde superbit homo cuius conceptio turpis, Nasci poena, labor vita, necesse mori? ” “ Whence will man show his pride, whose conception is shameful, to be born a penalty, life of work, and needs die” How is she become a desolation] Here the prophet, Nineven in Theatre statuit, et traducit apud Iudaeos (saith Calvin), setteth Nineveh upon the stage, and showeth his Jews the tragic end of her; how she should wonderfully be brought down beyond all expectation. God delighteth to make himself marvellous; he is the only true Thaumaturgus.
Every one that passeth by her shall hiss, and wag his hand] In scorn, horror, and disdain; and why, see Nahum 3:19 Lamentations 2:15; Lamentations 2:17 1 Kings 9:8 Ezekiel 27:36 Micah 6:16. Surely God scorneth the scorners, Proverbs 3:34, and maketh that the merciless find no mercy, James 2:13.
Ellicott's Commentary on Zephaniah 2:15
(15) The earlier part of this verse is doubtless based on Isaiah 47:8, “Hear now this, thou that art given to pleasures, that dwellest carelessly, that sayest in thine heart, I am and none else beside me.” (See also Isaiah 23:7, and compare the language in Revelation 18:7.) The remainder of the verse reminds us of Jer 50:23; Nahum 3:19.
Adam Clarke's Commentary on Zephaniah 2:15
Verse 15. This is the rejoicing city] The city in which mirth, jocularity, and pleasure, reigned without interruption. And wag his hand] Will point her out as a mark and monument of Divine displeasure.
Cambridge Bible on Zephaniah 2:15
15. A ḳ ?inah or elegy on Nineveh. the rejoicing city] R.V. the joyous city. there is none beside me] there is none else. She felt unique in her power and splendour. The same words are used of herself by Babylon, Isaiah 47:8. shall hiss, and wag his hand] Expressions of scorn and hatred. Ezekiel 27:36; Lamentations 2:15-16; Job 27:23; Nahum 3:19.
Barnes' Notes on Zephaniah 2:15
This utter desolation is “the rejoicing city” (so unlike is it, that there is need to point out that it is the same); this is she, who was full of joy, exulting exceedingly, but in herself, not in
Whedon's Commentary on Zephaniah 2:15
13-15. The doom of Nineveh. Stretch out his hand — See on Zephaniah 1:4. Against the north — From Ethiopia in the far south Jehovah will turn northward to strike Assyria.
Sermons on Zephaniah 2:15
| Sermon | Description | |
|---|---|---|
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The Horizon of Divine Purpose - Part 8 by T. Austin-Sparks | In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of having a clear understanding of God's purpose in our lives. He warns that if we lose sight of this purpose, our Christian l |
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Practical Atheism, in Denying the Agency of Divine Providence, Exposed by Samuel Davies | Samuel Davies preaches about the prevalence of practical atheism in denying the agency of divine providence, exposing the consequences of settling on one's own understanding and ne |
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Real Wisdom by Joshua Daniel | Joshua Daniel preaches on the contrast between the wisdom of the prince of Tyrus, who exalted himself to be equal with God through his riches, and the humility of Jesus, who willin |
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Isaiah and Jerusalem by A.B. Simpson | A.B. Simpson explores the profound messages of the prophet Isaiah, emphasizing his dual focus on sin and judgment for Jerusalem, alongside a hopeful vision of redemption and restor |
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Isaiah Chapter 4 Isaiah and Jerusalem by A.B. Simpson | A.B. Simpson explores the profound messages of the prophet Isaiah, focusing on the themes of sin, judgment, and eventual redemption for Judah and Jerusalem. He highlights Isaiah's |
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Hell - Part 2 by David Wilkerson | In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of not neglecting salvation. He highlights how people often neglect prayer and the word of God, instead spending their time o |
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The Sudden Destruction of America by David Wilkerson | In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes that God's true people should not fear sudden destruction or the desolation of the wicked. He urges listeners to see these judgments as sign |