Zephaniah 2:9
Zephaniah 2:9 in Multiple Translations
Therefore, as surely as I live,” declares the LORD of Hosts, the God of Israel, “surely Moab will be like Sodom and the Ammonites like Gomorrah— a place of weeds and salt pits, a perpetual wasteland. The remnant of My people will plunder them; the remainder of My nation will dispossess them.”
Therefore as I live, saith the LORD of hosts, the God of Israel, Surely Moab shall be as Sodom, and the children of Ammon as Gomorrah, even the breeding of nettles, and saltpits, and a perpetual desolation: the residue of my people shall spoil them, and the remnant of my people shall possess them.
Therefore as I live, saith Jehovah of hosts, the God of Israel, Surely Moab shall be as Sodom, and the children of Ammon as Gomorrah, a possession of nettles, and saltpits, and a perpetual desolation: the residue of my people shall make a prey of them, and the remnant of my nation shall inherit them.
For this cause, by my life, says the Lord of armies, the God of Israel, truly Moab will become like Sodom and the children of Ammon like Gomorrah, given up to waste plants and salt pools and unpeopled for ever: the rest of my people will take their property, the overflow of my nation will take their heritage.
Consequently, as I live, declares the Lord Almighty, the God of Israel, the Moabites will become like Sodom, and the Ammonites like Gomorrah. Their land will become a place of weeds and salt pits and ruins forever. Those who remain of my people will plunder them and occupy their land.
Therefore, as I liue, saith the Lord of hostes, the God of Israel, Surely Moab shall bee as Sodom, and the children of Ammon as Gomorah, euen the breeding of nettels and salt pittes, and a perpetuall desolation: the residue of my folke shall spoyle them, and the remnant of my people shall possesse them.
Therefore, I live, An affirmation of Jehovah of Hosts, God of Israel, Surely, Moab is as Sodom, And the sons of Ammon as Gomorrah, An overrunning of nettles and salt-pits, And a desolation — unto the age. A residue of My people do seize them, And a remnant of My nation inherit them.
Therefore, as I live, says the LORD of Armies, the God of Israel, surely Moab will be as Sodom, and the children of Ammon as Gomorrah, a possession of nettles and salt pits, and a perpetual desolation. The remnant of my people will plunder them, and the survivors of my nation will inherit them.
Therefore as I live, saith the LORD of hosts, the God of Israel, Surely Moab shall be as Sodom, and the children of Ammon as Gomorrah, even the breeding of nettles, and salt-pits, and a perpetual desolation: the residue of my people shall lay them waste, and the remnant of my people shall possess them.
Therefore as I live, saith the Lord of hosts the God of Israel, Moab shall be as Sodom, and the children of Ammon as Gomorrha, the dryness of thorns, and heaps of salt, and a desert even for ever: the remnant of my people shall make a spoil of them, and the residue of my nation shall possess them.
So now, as surely as I live, I will destroy Moab and Ammon like [SIM] I destroyed Gomorrah city. Their land will be a place were there are nettles and salt pits; it will be ruined forever. My Israeli people who survive will take away all their valuable possessions and also occupy their land.”
Berean Amplified Bible — Zephaniah 2:9
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 2:9 Interlinear (Deep Study)
BIB
HEB
לָ/כֵ֣ן
חַי
אָ֡נִי
נְאֻם֩
יְהוָ֨ה
צְבָא֜וֹת
אֱלֹהֵ֣י
יִשְׂרָאֵ֗ל
כִּֽי
מוֹאָ֞ב
כִּ/סְדֹ֤ם
תִּֽהְיֶה֙
וּ/בְנֵ֤י
עַמּוֹן֙
כַּֽ/עֲמֹרָ֔ה
מִמְשַׁ֥ק
חָר֛וּל
וּ/מִכְרֵה
מֶ֥לַח
וּ/שְׁמָמָ֖ה
עַד
עוֹלָ֑ם
שְׁאֵרִ֤ית
עַמִּ/י֙
יְבָזּ֔וּ/ם
וְ/יֶ֥תֶר
גוי
גּוֹיִ֖/י
יִנְחָלֽוּ/ם
לָ/כֵ֣ן
kên
H3651
right
Prep | Adv
חַי
chay
H2416
alive
Adj
אָ֡נִי
ʼănîy
H589
I
Pron
נְאֻם֩
nᵉʼum
H5002
utterance
N-ms
יְהוָ֨ה
Yᵉhôvâh
H3068
The Lord
N-proper
צְבָא֜וֹת
tsâbâʼ
H6635
army
N-cp
אֱלֹהֵ֣י
ʼĕlôhîym
H430
God
N-mp
יִשְׂרָאֵ֗ל
Yisrâʼêl
H3478
Israel
N-proper
כִּֽי
kîy
H3588
for
Conj
מוֹאָ֞ב
Môwʼâb
H4124
Moab
N-proper
כִּ/סְדֹ֤ם
Çᵉdôm
H5467
Sodom
Prep | N-proper
תִּֽהְיֶה֙
hâyâh
H1961
to be
V-Qal-Imperf-3fs
וּ/בְנֵ֤י
bên
H1121
son
Conj | N-mp
עַמּוֹן֙
ʻAmmôwn
H5983
Ammon
N-proper
כַּֽ/עֲמֹרָ֔ה
ʻĂmôrâh
H6017
Gomorrah
Prep | N-proper
מִמְשַׁ֥ק
mimshâq
H4476
possession
N-ms
חָר֛וּל
chârûwl
H2738
nettle
N-ms
וּ/מִכְרֵה
mikreh
H4379
pit
Conj | N-ms
מֶ֥לַח
melach
H4417
salt
N-ms
וּ/שְׁמָמָ֖ה
shᵉmâmâh
H8077
Desolate
Conj | N-fs
עַד
ʻad
H5704
till
Prep
עוֹלָ֑ם
ʻôwlâm
H5769
forever
N-ms
שְׁאֵרִ֤ית
shᵉʼêrîyth
H7611
remnant
N-fs
עַמִּ/י֙
ʻam
H5971
Amaw
N-ms | Suff
יְבָזּ֔וּ/ם
bâzaz
H962
to plunder
V-Qal-Imperf-3mp | Suff
וְ/יֶ֥תֶר
yether
H3499
remainder
Conj | N-ms
גוי
gôwy
H1471
Gentile
N-ms
גּוֹיִ֖/י
gôwy
H1471
Gentile
N-ms | Suff
יִנְחָלֽוּ/ם
nâchal
H5157
to inherit
V-Qal-Imperf-3mp | Suff
Hebrew Word Study
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Hebrew Word Reference — Zephaniah 2:9
לָ/כֵ֣ן
kên
H3651
"right"
Prep | Adv
In the Bible, this Hebrew word means 'so' or 'thus', often used to show agreement or confirmation, like in the book of Genesis. It can also mean 'rightly' or 'justly', as in doing something the correct way. It appears in various forms throughout the Old Testament.
Definition: adv adj 1) right, just, honest, true, veritable 1a) right, just, honest 1b) correct 1c) true, veritable
Usage: Occurs in 737 OT verses. KJV: [phrase] after that (this, -ward, -wards), as... as, [phrase] (for-) asmuch as yet, [phrase] be (for which) cause, [phrase] following, howbeit, in (the) like (manner, -wise), [idiom] the more, right, (even) so, state, straightway, such (thing), surely, [phrase] there (where) -fore, this, thus, true, well, [idiom] you. See also: Genesis 1:7; Exodus 37:19; Judges 7:17.
חַי
chay
H2416
"alive"
Adj
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.
אָ֡נִי
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.
נְאֻם֩
nᵉʼum
H5002
"utterance"
N-ms
This word refers to an utterance or declaration from God, often through a prophet. It is used in the Bible to describe a revelation or message from God, like in Exodus or Numbers.
Definition: 1) (Qal) utterance, declaration (of prophet) 1a) utterance, declaration, revelation (of prophet in ecstatic state) 1b) utterance, declaration (elsewhere always preceding divine name)
Usage: Occurs in 358 OT verses. KJV: (hath) said, saith. See also: Genesis 22:16; Jeremiah 22:16; Psalms 36:2.
יְהוָ֨ה
Yᵉhôvâh
H3068
"The Lord"
N-proper
Yehovah is another name for God, often translated as 'the Lord'. It is a national name for God in the Jewish faith. This name is used throughout the Old Testament.
Definition: Another name of ye.ru.sha.laim (יְרוּשָׁלִַ֫ם, יְרוּשְׁלֵם "Jerusalem" H3389)
Usage: Occurs in 5522 OT verses. KJV: Jehovah, the Lord. Compare H3050 (יָהּ), H3069 (יְהֹוִה). See also: Genesis 2:4; Genesis 24:42; Exodus 8:8.
צְבָא֜וֹת
tsâbâʼ
H6635
"army"
N-cp
This Hebrew word means a large group of people or things, often referring to an army or a campaign, and is also used to describe the Lord's hosts. It appears in the Bible as a name for God, emphasizing His power and authority. In the KJV, it's translated as 'host' or 'army'.
Definition: : army 1) that which goes forth, army, war, warfare, host 1a) army, host 1a1) host (of organised army) 1a2) host (of angels) 1a3) of sun, moon, and stars 1a4) of whole creation 1b) war, warfare, service, go out to war 1c) service
Usage: Occurs in 463 OT verses. KJV: appointed time, ([phrase]) army, ([phrase]) battle, company, host, service, soldiers, waiting upon, war(-fare). See also: Genesis 2:1; 1 Samuel 17:55; Psalms 24:10.
אֱלֹהֵ֣י
ʼĕlôhîym
H430
"God"
N-mp
The Hebrew word for God, elohim, refers to the one supreme God, and is sometimes used to show respect to judges or magistrates. It is also used to describe angels or mighty beings. This word is closely related to the name of the Lord, Yahweh, and is often translated as God or gods in the Bible.
Definition: This name means "gods" (plural intensive-singular meaning), "God" Another name of ye.ho.vah (יהוה "LORD" H3068G)
Usage: Occurs in 2246 OT verses. KJV: angels, [idiom] exceeding, God (gods) (-dess, -ly), [idiom] (very) great, judges, [idiom] mighty. See also: Genesis 1:1; Genesis 22:12; Exodus 3:11.
יִשְׂרָאֵ֗ל
Yisrâʼêl
H3478
"Israel"
N-proper
Israel is the symbolic name of Jacob, also referring to his descendants. Jacob, son of Isaac and Rebekah, had 12 sons who became the tribes of Israel, as told in Genesis 25:26. His story is crucial to the Bible's narrative.
Definition: A man living at the time of the Patriarchs, first mentioned at Gen.25.26; son of: Isaac (H3327) and Rebekah (H7259); brother of: Esau (H6215); married to Rachel (H7354), Leah (H3812), Zilpah (H2153) and Bilhah (H1090A); father of: Reuben (H7205), Simeon (H8095), Levi (H3878), Judah (H3063), Dan (H1835H), Naphtali (H5321), Gad (H1410), Asher (H0836), Issachar (H3485), Zebulun (H2074), Dinah (H1783), Joseph (H3130) and Benjamin (H1144); also called Jacob frequently § Israel = "God prevails" 1) the second name for Jacob given to him by God after his wrestling with the angel at Peniel 2) the name of the descendants and the nation of the descendants of Jacob 2a) the name of the nation until the death of Solomon and the split 2b) the name used and given to the northern kingdom consisting of the 10 tribes under Jeroboam; the southern kingdom was known as Judah 2c) the name of the nation after the return from exile
Usage: Occurs in 2231 OT verses. KJV: Israel. See also: Genesis 32:29; Exodus 13:18; Exodus 40:38.
כִּֽי
kîy
H3588
"for"
Conj
A conjunction used to show cause or connection, as in Genesis 2:23 where Adam says the woman is bone of his bone because she was taken out of him. It is often translated as 'for', 'because', or 'since'.
Definition: 1) that, for, because, when, as though, as, because that, but, then, certainly, except, surely, since 1a) that 1a1) yea, indeed 1b) when (of time) 1b1) when, if, though (with a concessive force) 1c) because, since (causal connection) 1d) but (after negative) 1e) that if, for if, indeed if, for though, but if 1f) but rather, but 1g) except that 1h) only, nevertheless 1i) surely 1j) that is 1k) but if 1l) for though 1m) forasmuch as, for therefore
Usage: Occurs in 3910 OT verses. KJV: and, + (forasmuch, inasmuch, where-) as, assured(-ly), + but, certainly, doubtless, + else, even, + except, for, how, (because, in, so, than) that, + nevertheless, now, rightly, seeing, since, surely, then, therefore, + (al-) though, + till, truly, + until, when, whether, while, whom, yea, yet. See also: Genesis 1:4; Genesis 26:16; Genesis 42:15.
מוֹאָ֞ב
Môwʼâb
H4124
"Moab"
N-proper
Moab refers to the land and descendants of the son of Lot, who was born out of an incestuous relationship. The land of Moab is mentioned in the book of Numbers and the book of Ruth.
Definition: Combined with a.ra.vah (עֲרָבָה " Plains" H6160I) § Moab = "of his father" the land inhabited by the descendants of the son of Lot
Usage: Occurs in 158 OT verses. KJV: Moab. See also: Genesis 19:37; 2 Kings 3:21; Psalms 60:10.
כִּ/סְדֹ֤ם
Çᵉdôm
H5467
"Sodom"
Prep | N-proper
Sodom was a city near the Dead Sea, known for its wickedness and corruption. According to the book of Genesis, God destroyed Sodom and Gomorrah as a judgment for their sins. The city has become a symbol of evil and immorality.
Definition: Sodom = "burning" a Canaanite city, usually paired with Gomorrah, located in the area of the Dead Sea and the Jordan river; both cities destroyed by God in judgment Also named: Sodoma (Σόδομα "Sodom" G4670)
Usage: Occurs in 38 OT verses. KJV: Sodom. See also: Genesis 10:19; Genesis 19:28; Isaiah 1:9.
תִּֽהְיֶה֙
hâyâh
H1961
"to be"
V-Qal-Imperf-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.
וּ/בְנֵ֤י
bên
H1121
"son"
Conj | N-mp
In the Bible, this word means a son or descendant, and can also refer to a grandson, nation, or quality. It appears in 1 Chronicles 24, describing a Levite named Beno. The word is used to show family relationships and inheritance.
Definition: : child/son
Usage: Occurs in 3653 OT verses. KJV: [phrase] afflicted, age, (Ahoh-) (Ammon-) (Hachmon-) (Lev-) ite, (anoint-) ed one, appointed to, ([phrase]) arrow, (Assyr-) (Babylon-) (Egypt-) (Grec-) ian, one born, bough, branch, breed, [phrase] (young) bullock, [phrase] (young) calf, [idiom] came up in, child, colt, [idiom] common, [idiom] corn, daughter, [idiom] of first, [phrase] firstborn, foal, [phrase] very fruitful, [phrase] postage, [idiom] in, [phrase] kid, [phrase] lamb, ([phrase]) man, meet, [phrase] mighty, [phrase] nephew, old, ([phrase]) people, [phrase] rebel, [phrase] robber, [idiom] servant born, [idiom] soldier, son, [phrase] spark, [phrase] steward, [phrase] stranger, [idiom] surely, them of, [phrase] tumultuous one, [phrase] valiant(-est), whelp, worthy, young (one), youth. See also: Genesis 3:16; Genesis 23:3; Genesis 34:18.
עַמּוֹן֙
ʻAmmôwn
H5983
"Ammon"
N-proper
Ammon refers to a son of Lot and his descendants, who lived in Transjordan. The Ammonites are mentioned in the Bible as a distinct people. They appear in the book of Genesis and are also referenced in the history of the Israelites.
Definition: § Ammon = "tribal" a people dwelling in Transjordan descended from Lot through Ben-ammi
Usage: Occurs in 98 OT verses. KJV: Ammon, Ammonites. See also: Genesis 19:38; 2 Samuel 11:1; Psalms 83:8.
כַּֽ/עֲמֹרָ֔ה
ʻĂmôrâh
H6017
"Gomorrah"
Prep | N-proper
Gomorrah was a city in ancient Palestine, mentioned in Genesis 18:20, known for its wickedness and ultimately destroyed by God, as described in Genesis 19:24-25, serving as a cautionary tale about the consequences of sin.
Definition: Gomorrah = "submersion" the twin-city in evil with Sodom, both destroyed in judgment by God with fire from heaven Also named: Gomorra (Γόμορρα "Gomorrah" G1116)
Usage: Occurs in 19 OT verses. KJV: Gomorrah. See also: Genesis 10:19; Deuteronomy 29:22; Isaiah 1:9.
מִמְשַׁ֥ק
mimshâq
H4476
"possession"
N-ms
This word refers to something that belongs to someone, like a possession or property. It's used to describe the breeding of animals in Genesis 30:43.
Definition: possession, place possessed
Usage: Occurs in 1 OT verses. KJV: breeding. See also: Zephaniah 2:9.
חָר֛וּל
chârûwl
H2738
"nettle"
N-ms
The Hebrew word for a thorny weed or nettle, often found in the Bible as a type of unwanted plant. It appears in various translations, including the KJV, as a nettle. This word is used to describe a type of weed that grows in the land.
Definition: nettles, weeds, kind of weed (perhaps chickpea)
Usage: Occurs in 3 OT verses. KJV: nettle. See also: Job 30:7; Proverbs 24:31; Zephaniah 2:9.
וּ/מִכְרֵה
mikreh
H4379
"pit"
Conj | N-ms
This word refers to a deep hole or pit in the ground, possibly used for mining salt. The meaning is not entirely clear, but it appears in the Bible as a geographical feature. The word is used in books like 2 Chronicles.
Definition: 1) pit, salt pit 1a) meaning uncertain
Usage: Occurs in 1 OT verses. KJV: (salt-) pit. See also: Zephaniah 2:9.
מֶ֥לַח
melach
H4417
"salt"
N-ms
This Hebrew word refers specifically to salt that is easily pulverized and dissolved, often used to season food. It is also associated with salt pits, where salt was harvested. The word highlights the importance of salt in ancient Israelite life.
Definition: salt
Usage: Occurs in 26 OT verses. KJV: salt(-pit). See also: Genesis 14:3; Judges 9:45; Psalms 60:2.
וּ/שְׁמָמָ֖ה
shᵉmâmâh
H8077
"Desolate"
Conj | N-fs
This word refers to the state of being devastated or wasted, often used to describe the results of war or God's judgment. In Ezekiel 33:28, it describes the desolation of Israel. It's about a place being left empty and destroyed.
Definition: devastation, waste, desolation Another name of ye.ru.sha.laim (יְרוּשָׁלִַ֫ם, יְרוּשְׁלֵם "Jerusalem" H3389)
Usage: Occurs in 54 OT verses. KJV: (laid, [idiom] most) desolate(-ion), waste. See also: Exodus 23:29; Ezekiel 14:16; Isaiah 1:7.
עַד
ʻad
H5704
"till"
Prep
This Hebrew word means until or as far as, describing a point in time or space. It's used in the Bible to set boundaries or limits, like in Exodus when describing the Israelites' journey.
Definition: prep 1) as far as, even to, until, up to, while, as far as 1a) of space 1a1) as far as, up to, even to 1b) in combination 1b1) from...as far as, both...and (with 'min' -from) 1c) of time 1c1) even to, until, unto, till, during, end 1d) of degree 1d1) even to, to the degree of, even like conj 2) until, while, to the point that, so that even Aramaic equivalent: ad (עַד "till" H5705)
Usage: Occurs in 1128 OT verses. KJV: against, and, as, at, before, by (that), even (to), for(-asmuch as), (hither-) to, [phrase] how long, into, as long (much) as, (so) that, till, toward, until, when, while, ([phrase] as) yet. See also: Genesis 3:19; Exodus 32:20; Numbers 23:24.
עוֹלָ֑ם
ʻôwlâm
H5769
"forever"
N-ms
This word means forever or always, describing something that lasts an eternity. It is used in the Bible to describe God's eternal nature and his lasting promises.
Definition: : old/ancient 1) long duration, antiquity, futurity, for ever, ever, everlasting, evermore, perpetual, old, ancient, world 1a) ancient time, long time (of past) 1b) (of future) 1b1) for ever, always 1b2) continuous existence, perpetual 1b3) everlasting, indefinite or unending future, eternity
Usage: Occurs in 413 OT verses. KJV: alway(-s), ancient (time), any more, continuance, eternal, (for, (n-)) ever(-lasting, -more, of old), lasting, long (time), (of) old (time), perpetual, at any time, (beginning of the) world ([phrase] without end). Compare H5331 (נֶצַח), H5703 (עַד). See also: Genesis 3:22; 1 Kings 8:13; Psalms 5:12.
שְׁאֵרִ֤ית
shᵉʼêrîyth
H7611
"remnant"
N-fs
The Hebrew word for remnant refers to what is left after something has been destroyed or taken away, like the Israelites who survived the Babylonian exile. It appears in books like Isaiah and Jeremiah. The concept of a remnant is key to God's plan for his people.
Definition: 1) rest, residue, remainder, remnant 1a) rest, what is left 1b) remainder, descendants
Usage: Occurs in 66 OT verses. KJV: that had escaped, be left, posterity, remain(-der), remnant, residue, rest. See also: Genesis 45:7; Jeremiah 42:19; Psalms 76:11.
עַמִּ/י֙
ʻam
H5971
"Amaw"
N-ms | Suff
A people or nation is what this Hebrew word represents, like the nation of Israel in Exodus 33:13. It can also mean a tribe, troops, or attendants, and is used to describe a group of people gathered together. The word is often used to refer to the people of God.
Definition: This name means nation, people
Usage: Occurs in 1655 OT verses. KJV: folk, men, nation, people. See also: Genesis 11:6; Exodus 16:4; Leviticus 17:9.
יְבָזּ֔וּ/ם
bâzaz
H962
"to plunder"
V-Qal-Imperf-3mp | Suff
This verb means to violently take something, like plundering or seizing, often used to describe war and conquest in books like Joshua and Ezekiel. It can also mean to be robbed or taken advantage of.
Definition: 1) to spoil, plunder, prey upon, seize 1a) (Qal) to spoil, plunder, despoil 1b) (Niphal) to be spoiled, plundered 1c) (Pual) to be taken as spoil
Usage: Occurs in 39 OT verses. KJV: catch, gather, (take) for a prey, rob(-ber), spoil, take (away, spoil), [idiom] utterly. See also: Genesis 34:27; Psalms 109:11; Isaiah 10:2.
וְ/יֶ֥תֶר
yether
H3499
"remainder"
Conj | N-ms
A cord or rope, also meaning excess or remainder, as seen in the Bible's descriptions of leftovers or abundant resources.
Definition: 1) remainder, excess, rest, remnant, excellence 1a) remainder, remnant 1b) remainder, rest, other part 1c) excess 1d) abundantly (adv) 1e) abundance, affluence 1f) superiority, excellency
Usage: Occurs in 95 OT verses. KJV: [phrase] abundant, cord, exceeding, excellancy(-ent), what they leave, that hath left, plentifully, remnant, residue, rest, string, with. See also: Genesis 49:3; 2 Kings 15:26; Psalms 11:2.
גוי
gôwy
H1471
"Gentile"
N-ms
This word refers to a Gentile, someone who is not Hebrew or Israeli. It can also describe a large group of animals or a nation of people, emphasizing their unity and shared identity.
Definition: 1) nation, people 1a) nation, people 1a1) usually of non-Hebrew people 1a2) of descendants of Abraham 1a3) of Israel 1b) of swarm of locusts, other animals (fig.) 1c) Goyim? = "nations" Also named: ethnos (ἔθνος "Gentiles" G1484)
Usage: Occurs in 511 OT verses. KJV: Gentile, heathen, nation, people. See also: Genesis 10:5; Judges 4:16; Psalms 2:1.
גּוֹיִ֖/י
gôwy
H1471
"Gentile"
N-ms | Suff
This word refers to a Gentile, someone who is not Hebrew or Israeli. It can also describe a large group of animals or a nation of people, emphasizing their unity and shared identity.
Definition: 1) nation, people 1a) nation, people 1a1) usually of non-Hebrew people 1a2) of descendants of Abraham 1a3) of Israel 1b) of swarm of locusts, other animals (fig.) 1c) Goyim? = "nations" Also named: ethnos (ἔθνος "Gentiles" G1484)
Usage: Occurs in 511 OT verses. KJV: Gentile, heathen, nation, people. See also: Genesis 10:5; Judges 4:16; Psalms 2:1.
יִנְחָלֽוּ/ם
nâchal
H5157
"to inherit"
V-Qal-Imperf-3mp | Suff
This Hebrew verb means to inherit or to take possession of something, as seen in the story of the Israelites inheriting the Promised Land in Joshua 1:6. It can also mean to distribute or divide something among people, like the division of the land in Joshua 13-19. The word is used in various forms throughout the Bible.
Definition: 1) to get as a possession, acquire, inherit, possess 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to take possession, inherit 1a2) to have or get as a possession or property (fig.) 1a3) to divide the land for a possession 1a4) to acquire (testimonies) (fig.) 1b) (Piel) to divide for a possession 1c) (Hithpael) to possess oneself of 1d) (Hiphil) 1d1) to give as a possession 1d2) to cause to inherit, give as an inheritance 1e) (Hophal) to be allotted, be made to possess
Usage: Occurs in 57 OT verses. KJV: divide, have (inheritance), take as a heritage, (cause to, give to, make to) inherit, (distribute for, divide (for, for an, by), give for, have, leave for, take (for)) inheritance, (have in, cause to, be made to) possess(-ion). See also: Exodus 23:30; Joshua 17:6; Psalms 69:37.
Study Notes — Zephaniah 2:9
Show Verse Quote Highlights
- Context
- Cross References
- Zephaniah 2:9 Summary
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Reflection Questions
- Gill's Exposition on Zephaniah 2:9
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown on Zephaniah 2:9
- Matthew Poole's Commentary on Zephaniah 2:9
- Trapp's Commentary on Zephaniah 2:9
- Ellicott's Commentary on Zephaniah 2:9
- Adam Clarke's Commentary on Zephaniah 2:9
- Cambridge Bible on Zephaniah 2:9
- Barnes' Notes on Zephaniah 2:9
- Whedon's Commentary on Zephaniah 2:9
- Sermons on Zephaniah 2:9
Context — Judgment on Moab and Ammon
7The coast will belong to the remnant of the house of Judah; there they will find pasture. They will lie down in the evening among the houses of Ashkelon, for the LORD their God will attend to them and restore their captives.
8“I have heard the reproach of Moab and the insults of the Ammonites, who have taunted My people and threatened their borders.
9Therefore, as surely as I live,” declares the LORD of Hosts, the God of Israel, “surely Moab will be like Sodom and the Ammonites like Gomorrah— a place of weeds and salt pits, a perpetual wasteland. The remnant of My people will plunder them; the remainder of My nation will dispossess them.”
10This they shall have in return for their pride, for taunting and mocking the people of the LORD of Hosts. 11The LORD will be terrifying to them when He starves all the gods of the earth. Then the nations of every shore will bow in worship to Him, each in its own place.Cross References
| Reference | Text (BSB) | |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Isaiah 15:1–9 | This is the burden against Moab: Ar in Moab is ruined, destroyed in a night! Kir in Moab is devastated, destroyed in a night! Dibon goes up to its temple to weep at its high places. Moab wails over Nebo, as well as over Medeba. Every head is shaved, every beard is cut off. In its streets they wear sackcloth; on the rooftops and in the public squares they all wail, falling down weeping. Heshbon and Elealeh cry out; their voices are heard as far as Jahaz. Therefore the soldiers of Moab cry out; their souls tremble within. My heart cries out over Moab; her fugitives flee as far as Zoar, as far as Eglath-shelishiyah. With weeping they ascend the slope of Luhith; they lament their destruction on the road to Horonaim. The waters of Nimrim are dried up, and the grass is withered; the vegetation is gone, and the greenery is no more. So they carry their wealth and belongings over the Brook of the Willows. For their outcry echoes to the border of Moab. Their wailing reaches Eglaim; it is heard in Beer-elim. The waters of Dimon are full of blood, but I will bring more upon Dimon— a lion upon the fugitives of Moab and upon the remnant of the land. |
| 2 | Isaiah 11:14 | They will swoop down on the slopes of the Philistines to the west; together they will plunder the sons of the east. They will lay their hands on Edom and Moab, and the Ammonites will be subject to them. |
| 3 | Deuteronomy 29:23 | All its soil will be a burning waste of sulfur and salt, unsown and unproductive, with no plant growing on it, just like the destruction of Sodom and Gomorrah, Admah and Zeboiim, which the LORD overthrew in His fierce anger. |
| 4 | Isaiah 25:10 | For the hand of the LORD will rest on this mountain. But Moab will be trampled in his place as straw is trodden into the dung pile. |
| 5 | Isaiah 49:18 | Lift up your eyes and look around. They all gather together; they come to you. As surely as I live,” declares the LORD, “you will wear them all as jewelry and put them on like a bride. |
| 6 | Jeremiah 48:1–6 | Concerning Moab, this is what the LORD of Hosts, the God of Israel, says: “Woe to Nebo, for it will be devastated. Kiriathaim will be captured and disgraced; the fortress will be shattered and dismantled. There is no longer praise for Moab; in Heshbon they devise evil against her: ‘Come, let us cut her off from nationhood.’ You too, O people of Madmen, will be silenced; the sword will pursue you. A voice cries out from Horonaim: ‘Devastation and great destruction!’ Moab will be shattered; her little ones will cry out. For on the ascent to Luhith they weep bitterly as they go, and on the descent to Horonaim cries of distress resound over the destruction: ‘Flee! Run for your lives! Become like a juniper in the desert. ’ |
| 7 | Joel 3:19–20 | Egypt will become desolate, and Edom a desert wasteland, because of the violence done to the people of Judah, in whose land they shed innocent blood. But Judah will be inhabited forever, and Jerusalem from generation to generation. |
| 8 | Micah 5:7–8 | Then the remnant of Jacob will be in the midst of many peoples like dew from the LORD, like showers on the grass, which do not wait for man or linger for mankind. Then the remnant of Jacob will be among the nations, in the midst of many peoples, like a lion among the beasts of the forest, like a young lion among flocks of sheep, which tramples and tears as it passes through, with no one to rescue them. |
| 9 | Isaiah 34:9–13 | Edom’s streams will be turned to tar, and her soil to sulfur; her land will become a blazing pitch. It will not be quenched—day or night. Its smoke will ascend forever. From generation to generation it will lie desolate; no one will ever again pass through it. The desert owl and screech owl will possess it, and the great owl and raven will dwell in it. The LORD will stretch out over Edom a measuring line of chaos and a plumb line of destruction. No nobles will be left to proclaim a king, and all her princes will come to nothing. Her towers will be overgrown with thorns, her fortresses with thistles and briers. She will become a haunt for jackals, an abode for ostriches. |
| 10 | Amos 1:13–3 | — |
Zephaniah 2:9 Summary
Zephaniah 2:9 tells us that God will judge Moab and Ammon for their pride and rebellion against Him and His people. He will make their lands desolate, like Sodom and Gomorrah, which were destroyed because of their wickedness (as seen in Genesis 19:24-25). This shows us that God is serious about justice and will not tolerate sin forever. As believers, we can trust that God will protect and restore us, just as He promises to do for the remnant of His people in this verse, and as seen in Jeremiah 29:11, where He promises to give us a hope and a future.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the significance of Moab and Ammon being compared to Sodom and Gomorrah in Zephaniah 2:9?
This comparison signifies that Moab and Ammon will face a similar judgment and destruction as Sodom and Gomorrah, as seen in Genesis 19:24-25, due to their rebelliousness against God and His people.
Who will plunder and dispossess Moab and Ammon according to Zephaniah 2:9?
The remnant of God's people will plunder them, and the remainder of His nation will dispossess them, as a form of judgment and restoration, similar to what is seen in Isaiah 14:1-2 where God restores His people.
What is the purpose of God declaring 'as surely as I live' in Zephaniah 2:9?
This declaration emphasizes the certainty and solemnity of God's judgment, as seen in Deuteronomy 32:40, where God swears by His own life to fulfill His promises and judgments.
How does Zephaniah 2:9 relate to God's overall plan of redemption?
This verse demonstrates God's justice and protection of His people, while also highlighting His desire for all nations to acknowledge and worship Him, as seen in Zephaniah 2:11, where every nation will bow in worship to Him.
Reflection Questions
- What does this verse reveal about God's character, particularly in relation to justice and mercy?
- How does the comparison between Moab, Ammon, and Sodom and Gomorrah impact my understanding of God's judgment?
- In what ways can I apply the principles of God's judgment and restoration in my own life, especially in relation to my interactions with others?
- What does this verse teach me about God's plan for His people, and how can I trust in His sovereignty and protection?
Gill's Exposition on Zephaniah 2:9
Therefore [as] I live, saith the Lord of hosts, the God of Israel,.... The Lord here swears by himself, by his life; partly to show how provoked he was at, and how grievously he resented, the
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown on Zephaniah 2:9
Therefore as I live, saith the LORD of hosts, the God of Israel, Surely Moab shall be as Sodom, and the children of Ammon as Gomorrah, even the breeding of nettles, and saltpits, and a perpetual
Matthew Poole's Commentary on Zephaniah 2:9
As I live; the most solemn oath, fit for none but God himself to use: see . Saith the Lord of hosts, who have all things at my disposal, and can arm all creatures against these proud revilers. The God of Israel, who by covenant am Israel’ s God, and Israel is my people, in whose reproaches I am reproached. Shall be as Sodom: this is a proverbial speech in Scripture phrase to speak great destruction, as . Moab and Ammon were not destroyed by fire, as Sodom and Gomorrah; but the next words are an explication of these. The breeding of nettles; not cultivated, but run over with nettles, as if it were only to breed them. And salt-pits; a salt, dry, barren earth, fit only to dig salt out of. A perpetual desolation; never more to be manured and inhabited, or not for a long, a very long time. The residue; either the few left with Gedaliah, or the remnant that returned out of Babylon. Shall spoil them; provoked by the injuries of Moab and Ammon, shall take arms, overcome, and spoil them.
Shall possess them; settle upon their lands, and dwell in those parts that are fit for habitation.
Trapp's Commentary on Zephaniah 2:9
Zephaniah 2:9 Therefore [as] I live, saith the LORD of hosts, the God of Israel, Surely Moab shall be as Sodom, and the children of Ammon as Gomorrah, [even] the breeding of nettles, and saltpits, and a perpetual desolation: the residue of my people shall spoil them, and the remnant of my people shall possess them.Ver. 9. Therefore as I live] This is God’ s oath; so, As true as I live, Numbers 14:21 cf. Psalms 95:10, therefore they are to blame that use it in their common talk. Surely Moab shall be as Sodom, &c.] Whereas they think that I either hear not their revilings or regard them not, I shall make Moab and Ammon smart and smoke for them. Even the breeding of nettles and salt pits] They shall not indeed be consumed with fire from heaven; but their land shall lie waste for a long season. Nettles grow in barren places, and are good for nothing, unless it be the buds at first coming. Pliny writeth, that where salt is digged little good else groweth, see Judges 9:45 Psalms 107:34. For a perpetual desolation] Certain it is that those nations carried captive by Nebuchadnezzar were never restored; but that in later times a mixed multitude of vagrants out of many nations met there, taking upon them the old title of Arabians, and living by rapine and robbery. Out of these came Mahomet, founder of the Turkish empire and superstition, who overturned the Christian Churches, there planted by the apostles (as was here afore prophesied, "The residue of my people shall spoil them," &c., see Zephaniah 2:7; confer Galatians 1:17, and soon overrun all the east and south, as Popery did all the west and north, at the same time.)
Ellicott's Commentary on Zephaniah 2:9
(9) The breeding of nettles.—Better, an inheritance of nettles. The propriety of illustrating the fate of Moab and Ammon by that of the cities of the plain is the greater in that Lot, the ancestor of these nationalities, was an inhabitant of Sodom, and narrowly escaped sharing its destruction. Ravages in Moab and Ammon were effected by Nebuchadnezzar in B.C. 582, probably in revenge for the murder of Gedaliah, the ruler of his appointment (Jos., Ant. x. 9 § 7). But the allusion here is to some later and more permanent work of destruction. The national existence of both Moab and Ammon appears to have ceased long before the Christian era. Josephus’ assertion (Ant. i. 11 § 5.) that in his own time the Moabites were “a very great nation.” is simply unintelligible. The extraordinary number of ruined towns in Moab has been noticed by every modern explorer.
Adam Clarke's Commentary on Zephaniah 2:9
Verse 9. The breeding of nettles] That is, their land shall become desolate, and be a place for nettles, thorns, &c., to flourish in, for want of cultivation.
Cambridge Bible on Zephaniah 2:9
9. Jehovah’s oath by Himself, as I live, is rare in early writings, but very common in Ezekiel. Moab shall be as Sodom] The vicinity of the two peoples or at least of Moab to the Dead Sea may have suggested the threat that the fate of the cities of the plain shall overtake them. the breeding of nettles] a possession of nettles, which overgrow uncultivated places, Proverbs 24:31; Job 30:7; Isaiah 34:13. and saltpits] These were common around the Dead Sea: Deuteronomy 29:23; cf. Isaiah 13:19; Jeremiah 49:18. The idea suggested is that of utter barrenness. To sow with salt was a symbolical act, signifying to doom to perpetual unfruitfulness and desolation (Judges 9:45). Ezekiel 47:11 predicts that, though the waters of the Dead Sea shall be sweetened when Israel is finally restored, the miry places and marshes about it shall be used for salt. shall spoil them] i.e. make a spoil of them, viz. Moab and Ammon. There is a certain inconsistency in the verse, which is not to be removed by drawing a distinction between the country of Moab and Ammon and the peoples themselves, and fancying that the country shall share the fate of Sodom, while the peoples become the servants of Israel (Hitzig). It is better to consider the prophet’s predictions to be ideal, and to threaten two fates to Moab and Ammon, one, destruction like Sodom and Gomorrah, and the other, absorption by Israel. remnant of my people] As R.V., my nation.
Barnes' Notes on Zephaniah 2:9
Therefore as I live, saith the Lord of hosts - Life especially belongs to God, since He Alone is Underived Life. “He hath life in Himself” John 5:26.
Whedon's Commentary on Zephaniah 2:9
8-11. The doom of Moab and Ammon. On the location of these nations see comments on Amos 1:13-15; Amos 2:1-3.
Sermons on Zephaniah 2:9
| Sermon | Description | |
|---|---|---|
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Pride and Shame or Humility and Wisdom by Bob Hoekstra | Bob Hoekstra preaches on the importance of walking in humility rather than pride to receive God's grace and wisdom. Those who walk in pride end up with shame, as seen in the wicked |
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(The Word for Today) Isaiah 15:1 - Part 1 by Chuck Smith | In this sermon, Pastor Chuck Smith discusses the importance of standing up for righteousness in a fallen world. He emphasizes the need for young adults to resist the immorality of |
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Isaiah and the Nations by A.B. Simpson | A.B. Simpson emphasizes the significance of understanding Isaiah's prophecies in the context of the surrounding nations that influenced Israel's history. He explains how Judah and |
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Isaiah Chapter 5 Isaiah and the Nations by A.B. Simpson | A.B. Simpson emphasizes the significance of understanding the geopolitical context of Isaiah's prophecies, particularly the neighboring nations that influenced Israel and Judah. He |
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Hardship Makes Character by Charles E. Cowman | Charles E. Cowman preaches on the concept of being 'more than conquerors' through Christ's love, emphasizing that this victory goes beyond mere success to a complete triumph where |
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The River of Life by David Wilkerson | In this sermon, the preacher discusses a vision that the prophet Ezekiel had about a river of life. The preacher emphasizes that this vision is a prophecy for the Church of the lat |
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Matthew 24:45 to End. Christ Describes the End of Faithful and Unfaithful Servants. by Favell Lee Mortimer | Favell Lee Mortimer delivers a powerful sermon on the responsibility of ministers as stewards of God's mysteries, emphasizing the importance of faithfulness and watchfulness in the |