Ezekiel 23

Ezekiel 23:1

God’s Vengeance for His Temple

Again, the LORD addresses the instruments of His anger on Babylon. They are to march against Babylon (Jeremiah 50:21). Merathaim is a poetic name for Babylon and means “double rebellion”. It speaks of Babylon’s pride and haughtiness and unwillingness to bow down. Therefore, the land and its inhabitants are to be destroyed and put under a spell. In doing so, they must not follow their own will, but must do according to all that the LORD has commanded them.

When the hostile armies enter the land of Babylon, it will be under noise of battle (Jeremiah 50:22). The land faces a great destruction. Babylon, which has pounded on the nations like a sledgehammer and subjected those nations to itself, is now itself cut off and broken down (Jeremiah 50:23). The horror that went out from Babylon and caused fear has become a horror of dismay at what has happened to that people. Babylon has been captured by the LORD because it has engaged in battle against the LORD (Jeremiah 50:24).

Babylon does not reckon with the LORD and with His power, but that people will have to deal with the instruments of His indignation coming out of His armory (Jeremiah 50:25). The LORD of hosts will do His work in the land of the Chaldeans. No one will be able to prevent that. He calls His armies from the ends of the earth to take Babylon and rob her of all her supplies, leaving nothing that remains (Jeremiah 50:26). The animals must also be killed (Jeremiah 50:27). The “woe” comes upon them, for their day has come to repay them for all the injustice they have done to God’s people.

Those who fled from Babylon and escaped will go to Zion to report what happened in Babylon (Jeremiah 50:28). They will know how to tell that Babylon was judged because God avenged His temple on them. The Babylonians destroyed God’s temple. God will punish them for that because they did it in proud arrogance.

Ezekiel 23:2

God’s Vengeance for His Temple

Again, the LORD addresses the instruments of His anger on Babylon. They are to march against Babylon (Jeremiah 50:21). Merathaim is a poetic name for Babylon and means “double rebellion”. It speaks of Babylon’s pride and haughtiness and unwillingness to bow down. Therefore, the land and its inhabitants are to be destroyed and put under a spell. In doing so, they must not follow their own will, but must do according to all that the LORD has commanded them.

When the hostile armies enter the land of Babylon, it will be under noise of battle (Jeremiah 50:22). The land faces a great destruction. Babylon, which has pounded on the nations like a sledgehammer and subjected those nations to itself, is now itself cut off and broken down (Jeremiah 50:23). The horror that went out from Babylon and caused fear has become a horror of dismay at what has happened to that people. Babylon has been captured by the LORD because it has engaged in battle against the LORD (Jeremiah 50:24).

Babylon does not reckon with the LORD and with His power, but that people will have to deal with the instruments of His indignation coming out of His armory (Jeremiah 50:25). The LORD of hosts will do His work in the land of the Chaldeans. No one will be able to prevent that. He calls His armies from the ends of the earth to take Babylon and rob her of all her supplies, leaving nothing that remains (Jeremiah 50:26). The animals must also be killed (Jeremiah 50:27). The “woe” comes upon them, for their day has come to repay them for all the injustice they have done to God’s people.

Those who fled from Babylon and escaped will go to Zion to report what happened in Babylon (Jeremiah 50:28). They will know how to tell that Babylon was judged because God avenged His temple on them. The Babylonians destroyed God’s temple. God will punish them for that because they did it in proud arrogance.

Ezekiel 23:3

God’s Vengeance for His Temple

Again, the LORD addresses the instruments of His anger on Babylon. They are to march against Babylon (Jeremiah 50:21). Merathaim is a poetic name for Babylon and means “double rebellion”. It speaks of Babylon’s pride and haughtiness and unwillingness to bow down. Therefore, the land and its inhabitants are to be destroyed and put under a spell. In doing so, they must not follow their own will, but must do according to all that the LORD has commanded them.

When the hostile armies enter the land of Babylon, it will be under noise of battle (Jeremiah 50:22). The land faces a great destruction. Babylon, which has pounded on the nations like a sledgehammer and subjected those nations to itself, is now itself cut off and broken down (Jeremiah 50:23). The horror that went out from Babylon and caused fear has become a horror of dismay at what has happened to that people. Babylon has been captured by the LORD because it has engaged in battle against the LORD (Jeremiah 50:24).

Babylon does not reckon with the LORD and with His power, but that people will have to deal with the instruments of His indignation coming out of His armory (Jeremiah 50:25). The LORD of hosts will do His work in the land of the Chaldeans. No one will be able to prevent that. He calls His armies from the ends of the earth to take Babylon and rob her of all her supplies, leaving nothing that remains (Jeremiah 50:26). The animals must also be killed (Jeremiah 50:27). The “woe” comes upon them, for their day has come to repay them for all the injustice they have done to God’s people.

Those who fled from Babylon and escaped will go to Zion to report what happened in Babylon (Jeremiah 50:28). They will know how to tell that Babylon was judged because God avenged His temple on them. The Babylonians destroyed God’s temple. God will punish them for that because they did it in proud arrogance.

Ezekiel 23:4

God’s Vengeance for His Temple

Again, the LORD addresses the instruments of His anger on Babylon. They are to march against Babylon (Jeremiah 50:21). Merathaim is a poetic name for Babylon and means “double rebellion”. It speaks of Babylon’s pride and haughtiness and unwillingness to bow down. Therefore, the land and its inhabitants are to be destroyed and put under a spell. In doing so, they must not follow their own will, but must do according to all that the LORD has commanded them.

When the hostile armies enter the land of Babylon, it will be under noise of battle (Jeremiah 50:22). The land faces a great destruction. Babylon, which has pounded on the nations like a sledgehammer and subjected those nations to itself, is now itself cut off and broken down (Jeremiah 50:23). The horror that went out from Babylon and caused fear has become a horror of dismay at what has happened to that people. Babylon has been captured by the LORD because it has engaged in battle against the LORD (Jeremiah 50:24).

Babylon does not reckon with the LORD and with His power, but that people will have to deal with the instruments of His indignation coming out of His armory (Jeremiah 50:25). The LORD of hosts will do His work in the land of the Chaldeans. No one will be able to prevent that. He calls His armies from the ends of the earth to take Babylon and rob her of all her supplies, leaving nothing that remains (Jeremiah 50:26). The animals must also be killed (Jeremiah 50:27). The “woe” comes upon them, for their day has come to repay them for all the injustice they have done to God’s people.

Those who fled from Babylon and escaped will go to Zion to report what happened in Babylon (Jeremiah 50:28). They will know how to tell that Babylon was judged because God avenged His temple on them. The Babylonians destroyed God’s temple. God will punish them for that because they did it in proud arrogance.

Ezekiel 23:5

God’s Vengeance for His Temple

Again, the LORD addresses the instruments of His anger on Babylon. They are to march against Babylon (Jeremiah 50:21). Merathaim is a poetic name for Babylon and means “double rebellion”. It speaks of Babylon’s pride and haughtiness and unwillingness to bow down. Therefore, the land and its inhabitants are to be destroyed and put under a spell. In doing so, they must not follow their own will, but must do according to all that the LORD has commanded them.

When the hostile armies enter the land of Babylon, it will be under noise of battle (Jeremiah 50:22). The land faces a great destruction. Babylon, which has pounded on the nations like a sledgehammer and subjected those nations to itself, is now itself cut off and broken down (Jeremiah 50:23). The horror that went out from Babylon and caused fear has become a horror of dismay at what has happened to that people. Babylon has been captured by the LORD because it has engaged in battle against the LORD (Jeremiah 50:24).

Babylon does not reckon with the LORD and with His power, but that people will have to deal with the instruments of His indignation coming out of His armory (Jeremiah 50:25). The LORD of hosts will do His work in the land of the Chaldeans. No one will be able to prevent that. He calls His armies from the ends of the earth to take Babylon and rob her of all her supplies, leaving nothing that remains (Jeremiah 50:26). The animals must also be killed (Jeremiah 50:27). The “woe” comes upon them, for their day has come to repay them for all the injustice they have done to God’s people.

Those who fled from Babylon and escaped will go to Zion to report what happened in Babylon (Jeremiah 50:28). They will know how to tell that Babylon was judged because God avenged His temple on them. The Babylonians destroyed God’s temple. God will punish them for that because they did it in proud arrogance.

Ezekiel 23:6

God’s Vengeance for His Temple

Again, the LORD addresses the instruments of His anger on Babylon. They are to march against Babylon (Jeremiah 50:21). Merathaim is a poetic name for Babylon and means “double rebellion”. It speaks of Babylon’s pride and haughtiness and unwillingness to bow down. Therefore, the land and its inhabitants are to be destroyed and put under a spell. In doing so, they must not follow their own will, but must do according to all that the LORD has commanded them.

When the hostile armies enter the land of Babylon, it will be under noise of battle (Jeremiah 50:22). The land faces a great destruction. Babylon, which has pounded on the nations like a sledgehammer and subjected those nations to itself, is now itself cut off and broken down (Jeremiah 50:23). The horror that went out from Babylon and caused fear has become a horror of dismay at what has happened to that people. Babylon has been captured by the LORD because it has engaged in battle against the LORD (Jeremiah 50:24).

Babylon does not reckon with the LORD and with His power, but that people will have to deal with the instruments of His indignation coming out of His armory (Jeremiah 50:25). The LORD of hosts will do His work in the land of the Chaldeans. No one will be able to prevent that. He calls His armies from the ends of the earth to take Babylon and rob her of all her supplies, leaving nothing that remains (Jeremiah 50:26). The animals must also be killed (Jeremiah 50:27). The “woe” comes upon them, for their day has come to repay them for all the injustice they have done to God’s people.

Those who fled from Babylon and escaped will go to Zion to report what happened in Babylon (Jeremiah 50:28). They will know how to tell that Babylon was judged because God avenged His temple on them. The Babylonians destroyed God’s temple. God will punish them for that because they did it in proud arrogance.

Ezekiel 23:7

God’s Vengeance for His Temple

Again, the LORD addresses the instruments of His anger on Babylon. They are to march against Babylon (Jeremiah 50:21). Merathaim is a poetic name for Babylon and means “double rebellion”. It speaks of Babylon’s pride and haughtiness and unwillingness to bow down. Therefore, the land and its inhabitants are to be destroyed and put under a spell. In doing so, they must not follow their own will, but must do according to all that the LORD has commanded them.

When the hostile armies enter the land of Babylon, it will be under noise of battle (Jeremiah 50:22). The land faces a great destruction. Babylon, which has pounded on the nations like a sledgehammer and subjected those nations to itself, is now itself cut off and broken down (Jeremiah 50:23). The horror that went out from Babylon and caused fear has become a horror of dismay at what has happened to that people. Babylon has been captured by the LORD because it has engaged in battle against the LORD (Jeremiah 50:24).

Babylon does not reckon with the LORD and with His power, but that people will have to deal with the instruments of His indignation coming out of His armory (Jeremiah 50:25). The LORD of hosts will do His work in the land of the Chaldeans. No one will be able to prevent that. He calls His armies from the ends of the earth to take Babylon and rob her of all her supplies, leaving nothing that remains (Jeremiah 50:26). The animals must also be killed (Jeremiah 50:27). The “woe” comes upon them, for their day has come to repay them for all the injustice they have done to God’s people.

Those who fled from Babylon and escaped will go to Zion to report what happened in Babylon (Jeremiah 50:28). They will know how to tell that Babylon was judged because God avenged His temple on them. The Babylonians destroyed God’s temple. God will punish them for that because they did it in proud arrogance.

Ezekiel 23:8

God’s Vengeance for His Temple

Again, the LORD addresses the instruments of His anger on Babylon. They are to march against Babylon (Jeremiah 50:21). Merathaim is a poetic name for Babylon and means “double rebellion”. It speaks of Babylon’s pride and haughtiness and unwillingness to bow down. Therefore, the land and its inhabitants are to be destroyed and put under a spell. In doing so, they must not follow their own will, but must do according to all that the LORD has commanded them.

When the hostile armies enter the land of Babylon, it will be under noise of battle (Jeremiah 50:22). The land faces a great destruction. Babylon, which has pounded on the nations like a sledgehammer and subjected those nations to itself, is now itself cut off and broken down (Jeremiah 50:23). The horror that went out from Babylon and caused fear has become a horror of dismay at what has happened to that people. Babylon has been captured by the LORD because it has engaged in battle against the LORD (Jeremiah 50:24).

Babylon does not reckon with the LORD and with His power, but that people will have to deal with the instruments of His indignation coming out of His armory (Jeremiah 50:25). The LORD of hosts will do His work in the land of the Chaldeans. No one will be able to prevent that. He calls His armies from the ends of the earth to take Babylon and rob her of all her supplies, leaving nothing that remains (Jeremiah 50:26). The animals must also be killed (Jeremiah 50:27). The “woe” comes upon them, for their day has come to repay them for all the injustice they have done to God’s people.

Those who fled from Babylon and escaped will go to Zion to report what happened in Babylon (Jeremiah 50:28). They will know how to tell that Babylon was judged because God avenged His temple on them. The Babylonians destroyed God’s temple. God will punish them for that because they did it in proud arrogance.

Ezekiel 23:9

Arrogance of Babylon

Again the LORD calls the archers against Babylon (Jeremiah 50:29). They are to besiege Babylon from all sides and they are not to let anyone escape. Babylon is to be repaid according to all that she has done herself. With the measure by which she has measured, she himself must be measured (Matthew 7:2b). The hubris with which she has acted against the LORD, “the Holy One of Israel”, is the cause of this judgment. Babylon will lose her young men and all her men of war (Jeremiah 50:30). Thus the strength of this people will be broken.

“The Lord GOD of hosts” solemnly pronounces that He will punish this overconfident nation (Jeremiah 50:31). The time for that has come. And when the overconfident one has fallen, there will be no one to raise him up (Jeremiah 50:32). He will lie down forever. He will also have no place to live, for all his cities, yes, everything around him, will be devoured by a fire that the LORD Himself has kindled.

Ezekiel 23:10

Arrogance of Babylon

Again the LORD calls the archers against Babylon (Jeremiah 50:29). They are to besiege Babylon from all sides and they are not to let anyone escape. Babylon is to be repaid according to all that she has done herself. With the measure by which she has measured, she himself must be measured (Matthew 7:2b). The hubris with which she has acted against the LORD, “the Holy One of Israel”, is the cause of this judgment. Babylon will lose her young men and all her men of war (Jeremiah 50:30). Thus the strength of this people will be broken.

“The Lord GOD of hosts” solemnly pronounces that He will punish this overconfident nation (Jeremiah 50:31). The time for that has come. And when the overconfident one has fallen, there will be no one to raise him up (Jeremiah 50:32). He will lie down forever. He will also have no place to live, for all his cities, yes, everything around him, will be devoured by a fire that the LORD Himself has kindled.

Ezekiel 23:11

Arrogance of Babylon

Again the LORD calls the archers against Babylon (Jeremiah 50:29). They are to besiege Babylon from all sides and they are not to let anyone escape. Babylon is to be repaid according to all that she has done herself. With the measure by which she has measured, she himself must be measured (Matthew 7:2b). The hubris with which she has acted against the LORD, “the Holy One of Israel”, is the cause of this judgment. Babylon will lose her young men and all her men of war (Jeremiah 50:30). Thus the strength of this people will be broken.

“The Lord GOD of hosts” solemnly pronounces that He will punish this overconfident nation (Jeremiah 50:31). The time for that has come. And when the overconfident one has fallen, there will be no one to raise him up (Jeremiah 50:32). He will lie down forever. He will also have no place to live, for all his cities, yes, everything around him, will be devoured by a fire that the LORD Himself has kindled.

Ezekiel 23:12

Arrogance of Babylon

Again the LORD calls the archers against Babylon (Jeremiah 50:29). They are to besiege Babylon from all sides and they are not to let anyone escape. Babylon is to be repaid according to all that she has done herself. With the measure by which she has measured, she himself must be measured (Matthew 7:2b). The hubris with which she has acted against the LORD, “the Holy One of Israel”, is the cause of this judgment. Babylon will lose her young men and all her men of war (Jeremiah 50:30). Thus the strength of this people will be broken.

“The Lord GOD of hosts” solemnly pronounces that He will punish this overconfident nation (Jeremiah 50:31). The time for that has come. And when the overconfident one has fallen, there will be no one to raise him up (Jeremiah 50:32). He will lie down forever. He will also have no place to live, for all his cities, yes, everything around him, will be devoured by a fire that the LORD Himself has kindled.

Ezekiel 23:13

The Redeemer of Israel

Against the oppressors of all Israel, all twelve tribes – “the sons of Israel … and the sons of Judah as well” –, the wrath of the LORD has been kindled (Jeremiah 50:33). They – Assyria, Babylon, and countless other nations – oppressed His people and held them captive and would not let them go.

But their Redeemer, their Goel, is strong (Jeremiah 50:34). His Name is “LORD of hosts” to Whom all heavenly and earthly powers are subject. He will stand up for His people and plead their case. Then the land, His land, will come to rest (Jeremiah 31:2). The inhabitants of Babylon will know no rest, but turmoil.

Ezekiel 23:14

The Redeemer of Israel

Against the oppressors of all Israel, all twelve tribes – “the sons of Israel … and the sons of Judah as well” –, the wrath of the LORD has been kindled (Jeremiah 50:33). They – Assyria, Babylon, and countless other nations – oppressed His people and held them captive and would not let them go.

But their Redeemer, their Goel, is strong (Jeremiah 50:34). His Name is “LORD of hosts” to Whom all heavenly and earthly powers are subject. He will stand up for His people and plead their case. Then the land, His land, will come to rest (Jeremiah 31:2). The inhabitants of Babylon will know no rest, but turmoil.

Ezekiel 23:15

The Enduring Fate of Babylon

Previously the sword of the LORD has come upon Judah (Jeremiah 12:12) and upon the Philistines (Jeremiah 47:6) Now it comes upon all the layers of Babylon (Jeremiah 50:35-37). It is the sword of the avenger of blood, of God as the Redeemer of His people. The sword of death comes against the Chaldeans, against the inhabitants of Babylon, against her officials and against her wise men (Jeremiah 50:35). The common man, the officials and the counselors all perish.

The LORD calls them “oracle priests” who, because of this judgment, do not come to understanding, but to acting foolishly (Jeremiah 50:36). Nothing is to be expected of their mighty men. The sword also comes against them and they will be shattered. There is no strength to defend themselves. Their horses and chariots also fall under the blows of the sword (Jeremiah 50:37). The strangers who are in their midst will become like frightened women. The treasures they have looted will be plundered. No one and nothing will remain of Babylon.

The next judgment is drought (Jeremiah 50:38). There will be no more water. Their thirst will be so great that they will act like fools in order to thereby induce their idol to give them water. In all this, they are not turning to the living God. When Babylon is depopulated and the land has become a desert, no human being will ever be able to live there again (Jeremiah 50:39). The only inhabitants will be wild desert creatures along with the jackals and the ostriches. God has done to Babylon what He did to Sodom and Gomorrah and the neighboring places (Jeremiah 50:40).

For His judgment on Babylon, the LORD uses a people from the north (Jeremiah 50:41). They are a great people with numerous kings. They come from the corners of the earth. All their soldiers are skilled in the use of bow and spear (Jeremiah 50:42). They wield their weapons ruthlessly. Mercy they know not. Their voice of mass war cries sounds like the sea. They are also swift, for they ride horses. Then they line up for battle. There is no mistaking who the battle will be against. It is “against you, o daughter of Babylon”.

When the upcoming army in all its strength is thus painted, the king of Babylon loses courage (Jeremiah 50:43). He is seized with the distress that seizes a woman in childbirth. Then there is no strength or even thought of resistance. Babylon himself had been compared to a lion, but now his enemy is so represented (Jeremiah 50:44).

This lion – Cyrus, but in reality the LORD – emerges from “the thicket of the Jordan” and is sent by the LORD to Babylon, against that strong dwelling place. But his strong habitation offers no protection against this enemy. After all, the LORD has appointed him, hasn’t He? Who can raise any objection to that? No false shepherd who has so exploited His flock can stand before Him.

The plan concerning Babylon comes from the LORD (Jeremiah 50:45). He communicates His plans that He has devised against the land of the Chaldeans, and it is important to listen to them. The weakest of the flock, those who have been the prey of false shepherds and have not been able to defend themselves, will drag the mighty away from Babylon and destroy its habitation. The rumor that Babylon has been seized will cause great consternation in all the earth and among the nations (Jeremiah 50:46).

Ezekiel 23:16

The Enduring Fate of Babylon

Previously the sword of the LORD has come upon Judah (Jeremiah 12:12) and upon the Philistines (Jeremiah 47:6) Now it comes upon all the layers of Babylon (Jeremiah 50:35-37). It is the sword of the avenger of blood, of God as the Redeemer of His people. The sword of death comes against the Chaldeans, against the inhabitants of Babylon, against her officials and against her wise men (Jeremiah 50:35). The common man, the officials and the counselors all perish.

The LORD calls them “oracle priests” who, because of this judgment, do not come to understanding, but to acting foolishly (Jeremiah 50:36). Nothing is to be expected of their mighty men. The sword also comes against them and they will be shattered. There is no strength to defend themselves. Their horses and chariots also fall under the blows of the sword (Jeremiah 50:37). The strangers who are in their midst will become like frightened women. The treasures they have looted will be plundered. No one and nothing will remain of Babylon.

The next judgment is drought (Jeremiah 50:38). There will be no more water. Their thirst will be so great that they will act like fools in order to thereby induce their idol to give them water. In all this, they are not turning to the living God. When Babylon is depopulated and the land has become a desert, no human being will ever be able to live there again (Jeremiah 50:39). The only inhabitants will be wild desert creatures along with the jackals and the ostriches. God has done to Babylon what He did to Sodom and Gomorrah and the neighboring places (Jeremiah 50:40).

For His judgment on Babylon, the LORD uses a people from the north (Jeremiah 50:41). They are a great people with numerous kings. They come from the corners of the earth. All their soldiers are skilled in the use of bow and spear (Jeremiah 50:42). They wield their weapons ruthlessly. Mercy they know not. Their voice of mass war cries sounds like the sea. They are also swift, for they ride horses. Then they line up for battle. There is no mistaking who the battle will be against. It is “against you, o daughter of Babylon”.

When the upcoming army in all its strength is thus painted, the king of Babylon loses courage (Jeremiah 50:43). He is seized with the distress that seizes a woman in childbirth. Then there is no strength or even thought of resistance. Babylon himself had been compared to a lion, but now his enemy is so represented (Jeremiah 50:44).

This lion – Cyrus, but in reality the LORD – emerges from “the thicket of the Jordan” and is sent by the LORD to Babylon, against that strong dwelling place. But his strong habitation offers no protection against this enemy. After all, the LORD has appointed him, hasn’t He? Who can raise any objection to that? No false shepherd who has so exploited His flock can stand before Him.

The plan concerning Babylon comes from the LORD (Jeremiah 50:45). He communicates His plans that He has devised against the land of the Chaldeans, and it is important to listen to them. The weakest of the flock, those who have been the prey of false shepherds and have not been able to defend themselves, will drag the mighty away from Babylon and destroy its habitation. The rumor that Babylon has been seized will cause great consternation in all the earth and among the nations (Jeremiah 50:46).

Ezekiel 23:17

The Enduring Fate of Babylon

Previously the sword of the LORD has come upon Judah (Jeremiah 12:12) and upon the Philistines (Jeremiah 47:6) Now it comes upon all the layers of Babylon (Jeremiah 50:35-37). It is the sword of the avenger of blood, of God as the Redeemer of His people. The sword of death comes against the Chaldeans, against the inhabitants of Babylon, against her officials and against her wise men (Jeremiah 50:35). The common man, the officials and the counselors all perish.

The LORD calls them “oracle priests” who, because of this judgment, do not come to understanding, but to acting foolishly (Jeremiah 50:36). Nothing is to be expected of their mighty men. The sword also comes against them and they will be shattered. There is no strength to defend themselves. Their horses and chariots also fall under the blows of the sword (Jeremiah 50:37). The strangers who are in their midst will become like frightened women. The treasures they have looted will be plundered. No one and nothing will remain of Babylon.

The next judgment is drought (Jeremiah 50:38). There will be no more water. Their thirst will be so great that they will act like fools in order to thereby induce their idol to give them water. In all this, they are not turning to the living God. When Babylon is depopulated and the land has become a desert, no human being will ever be able to live there again (Jeremiah 50:39). The only inhabitants will be wild desert creatures along with the jackals and the ostriches. God has done to Babylon what He did to Sodom and Gomorrah and the neighboring places (Jeremiah 50:40).

For His judgment on Babylon, the LORD uses a people from the north (Jeremiah 50:41). They are a great people with numerous kings. They come from the corners of the earth. All their soldiers are skilled in the use of bow and spear (Jeremiah 50:42). They wield their weapons ruthlessly. Mercy they know not. Their voice of mass war cries sounds like the sea. They are also swift, for they ride horses. Then they line up for battle. There is no mistaking who the battle will be against. It is “against you, o daughter of Babylon”.

When the upcoming army in all its strength is thus painted, the king of Babylon loses courage (Jeremiah 50:43). He is seized with the distress that seizes a woman in childbirth. Then there is no strength or even thought of resistance. Babylon himself had been compared to a lion, but now his enemy is so represented (Jeremiah 50:44).

This lion – Cyrus, but in reality the LORD – emerges from “the thicket of the Jordan” and is sent by the LORD to Babylon, against that strong dwelling place. But his strong habitation offers no protection against this enemy. After all, the LORD has appointed him, hasn’t He? Who can raise any objection to that? No false shepherd who has so exploited His flock can stand before Him.

The plan concerning Babylon comes from the LORD (Jeremiah 50:45). He communicates His plans that He has devised against the land of the Chaldeans, and it is important to listen to them. The weakest of the flock, those who have been the prey of false shepherds and have not been able to defend themselves, will drag the mighty away from Babylon and destroy its habitation. The rumor that Babylon has been seized will cause great consternation in all the earth and among the nations (Jeremiah 50:46).

Ezekiel 23:18

The Enduring Fate of Babylon

Previously the sword of the LORD has come upon Judah (Jeremiah 12:12) and upon the Philistines (Jeremiah 47:6) Now it comes upon all the layers of Babylon (Jeremiah 50:35-37). It is the sword of the avenger of blood, of God as the Redeemer of His people. The sword of death comes against the Chaldeans, against the inhabitants of Babylon, against her officials and against her wise men (Jeremiah 50:35). The common man, the officials and the counselors all perish.

The LORD calls them “oracle priests” who, because of this judgment, do not come to understanding, but to acting foolishly (Jeremiah 50:36). Nothing is to be expected of their mighty men. The sword also comes against them and they will be shattered. There is no strength to defend themselves. Their horses and chariots also fall under the blows of the sword (Jeremiah 50:37). The strangers who are in their midst will become like frightened women. The treasures they have looted will be plundered. No one and nothing will remain of Babylon.

The next judgment is drought (Jeremiah 50:38). There will be no more water. Their thirst will be so great that they will act like fools in order to thereby induce their idol to give them water. In all this, they are not turning to the living God. When Babylon is depopulated and the land has become a desert, no human being will ever be able to live there again (Jeremiah 50:39). The only inhabitants will be wild desert creatures along with the jackals and the ostriches. God has done to Babylon what He did to Sodom and Gomorrah and the neighboring places (Jeremiah 50:40).

For His judgment on Babylon, the LORD uses a people from the north (Jeremiah 50:41). They are a great people with numerous kings. They come from the corners of the earth. All their soldiers are skilled in the use of bow and spear (Jeremiah 50:42). They wield their weapons ruthlessly. Mercy they know not. Their voice of mass war cries sounds like the sea. They are also swift, for they ride horses. Then they line up for battle. There is no mistaking who the battle will be against. It is “against you, o daughter of Babylon”.

When the upcoming army in all its strength is thus painted, the king of Babylon loses courage (Jeremiah 50:43). He is seized with the distress that seizes a woman in childbirth. Then there is no strength or even thought of resistance. Babylon himself had been compared to a lion, but now his enemy is so represented (Jeremiah 50:44).

This lion – Cyrus, but in reality the LORD – emerges from “the thicket of the Jordan” and is sent by the LORD to Babylon, against that strong dwelling place. But his strong habitation offers no protection against this enemy. After all, the LORD has appointed him, hasn’t He? Who can raise any objection to that? No false shepherd who has so exploited His flock can stand before Him.

The plan concerning Babylon comes from the LORD (Jeremiah 50:45). He communicates His plans that He has devised against the land of the Chaldeans, and it is important to listen to them. The weakest of the flock, those who have been the prey of false shepherds and have not been able to defend themselves, will drag the mighty away from Babylon and destroy its habitation. The rumor that Babylon has been seized will cause great consternation in all the earth and among the nations (Jeremiah 50:46).

Ezekiel 23:19

The Enduring Fate of Babylon

Previously the sword of the LORD has come upon Judah (Jeremiah 12:12) and upon the Philistines (Jeremiah 47:6) Now it comes upon all the layers of Babylon (Jeremiah 50:35-37). It is the sword of the avenger of blood, of God as the Redeemer of His people. The sword of death comes against the Chaldeans, against the inhabitants of Babylon, against her officials and against her wise men (Jeremiah 50:35). The common man, the officials and the counselors all perish.

The LORD calls them “oracle priests” who, because of this judgment, do not come to understanding, but to acting foolishly (Jeremiah 50:36). Nothing is to be expected of their mighty men. The sword also comes against them and they will be shattered. There is no strength to defend themselves. Their horses and chariots also fall under the blows of the sword (Jeremiah 50:37). The strangers who are in their midst will become like frightened women. The treasures they have looted will be plundered. No one and nothing will remain of Babylon.

The next judgment is drought (Jeremiah 50:38). There will be no more water. Their thirst will be so great that they will act like fools in order to thereby induce their idol to give them water. In all this, they are not turning to the living God. When Babylon is depopulated and the land has become a desert, no human being will ever be able to live there again (Jeremiah 50:39). The only inhabitants will be wild desert creatures along with the jackals and the ostriches. God has done to Babylon what He did to Sodom and Gomorrah and the neighboring places (Jeremiah 50:40).

For His judgment on Babylon, the LORD uses a people from the north (Jeremiah 50:41). They are a great people with numerous kings. They come from the corners of the earth. All their soldiers are skilled in the use of bow and spear (Jeremiah 50:42). They wield their weapons ruthlessly. Mercy they know not. Their voice of mass war cries sounds like the sea. They are also swift, for they ride horses. Then they line up for battle. There is no mistaking who the battle will be against. It is “against you, o daughter of Babylon”.

When the upcoming army in all its strength is thus painted, the king of Babylon loses courage (Jeremiah 50:43). He is seized with the distress that seizes a woman in childbirth. Then there is no strength or even thought of resistance. Babylon himself had been compared to a lion, but now his enemy is so represented (Jeremiah 50:44).

This lion – Cyrus, but in reality the LORD – emerges from “the thicket of the Jordan” and is sent by the LORD to Babylon, against that strong dwelling place. But his strong habitation offers no protection against this enemy. After all, the LORD has appointed him, hasn’t He? Who can raise any objection to that? No false shepherd who has so exploited His flock can stand before Him.

The plan concerning Babylon comes from the LORD (Jeremiah 50:45). He communicates His plans that He has devised against the land of the Chaldeans, and it is important to listen to them. The weakest of the flock, those who have been the prey of false shepherds and have not been able to defend themselves, will drag the mighty away from Babylon and destroy its habitation. The rumor that Babylon has been seized will cause great consternation in all the earth and among the nations (Jeremiah 50:46).

Ezekiel 23:20

The Enduring Fate of Babylon

Previously the sword of the LORD has come upon Judah (Jeremiah 12:12) and upon the Philistines (Jeremiah 47:6) Now it comes upon all the layers of Babylon (Jeremiah 50:35-37). It is the sword of the avenger of blood, of God as the Redeemer of His people. The sword of death comes against the Chaldeans, against the inhabitants of Babylon, against her officials and against her wise men (Jeremiah 50:35). The common man, the officials and the counselors all perish.

The LORD calls them “oracle priests” who, because of this judgment, do not come to understanding, but to acting foolishly (Jeremiah 50:36). Nothing is to be expected of their mighty men. The sword also comes against them and they will be shattered. There is no strength to defend themselves. Their horses and chariots also fall under the blows of the sword (Jeremiah 50:37). The strangers who are in their midst will become like frightened women. The treasures they have looted will be plundered. No one and nothing will remain of Babylon.

The next judgment is drought (Jeremiah 50:38). There will be no more water. Their thirst will be so great that they will act like fools in order to thereby induce their idol to give them water. In all this, they are not turning to the living God. When Babylon is depopulated and the land has become a desert, no human being will ever be able to live there again (Jeremiah 50:39). The only inhabitants will be wild desert creatures along with the jackals and the ostriches. God has done to Babylon what He did to Sodom and Gomorrah and the neighboring places (Jeremiah 50:40).

For His judgment on Babylon, the LORD uses a people from the north (Jeremiah 50:41). They are a great people with numerous kings. They come from the corners of the earth. All their soldiers are skilled in the use of bow and spear (Jeremiah 50:42). They wield their weapons ruthlessly. Mercy they know not. Their voice of mass war cries sounds like the sea. They are also swift, for they ride horses. Then they line up for battle. There is no mistaking who the battle will be against. It is “against you, o daughter of Babylon”.

When the upcoming army in all its strength is thus painted, the king of Babylon loses courage (Jeremiah 50:43). He is seized with the distress that seizes a woman in childbirth. Then there is no strength or even thought of resistance. Babylon himself had been compared to a lion, but now his enemy is so represented (Jeremiah 50:44).

This lion – Cyrus, but in reality the LORD – emerges from “the thicket of the Jordan” and is sent by the LORD to Babylon, against that strong dwelling place. But his strong habitation offers no protection against this enemy. After all, the LORD has appointed him, hasn’t He? Who can raise any objection to that? No false shepherd who has so exploited His flock can stand before Him.

The plan concerning Babylon comes from the LORD (Jeremiah 50:45). He communicates His plans that He has devised against the land of the Chaldeans, and it is important to listen to them. The weakest of the flock, those who have been the prey of false shepherds and have not been able to defend themselves, will drag the mighty away from Babylon and destroy its habitation. The rumor that Babylon has been seized will cause great consternation in all the earth and among the nations (Jeremiah 50:46).

Ezekiel 23:21

The Enduring Fate of Babylon

Previously the sword of the LORD has come upon Judah (Jeremiah 12:12) and upon the Philistines (Jeremiah 47:6) Now it comes upon all the layers of Babylon (Jeremiah 50:35-37). It is the sword of the avenger of blood, of God as the Redeemer of His people. The sword of death comes against the Chaldeans, against the inhabitants of Babylon, against her officials and against her wise men (Jeremiah 50:35). The common man, the officials and the counselors all perish.

The LORD calls them “oracle priests” who, because of this judgment, do not come to understanding, but to acting foolishly (Jeremiah 50:36). Nothing is to be expected of their mighty men. The sword also comes against them and they will be shattered. There is no strength to defend themselves. Their horses and chariots also fall under the blows of the sword (Jeremiah 50:37). The strangers who are in their midst will become like frightened women. The treasures they have looted will be plundered. No one and nothing will remain of Babylon.

The next judgment is drought (Jeremiah 50:38). There will be no more water. Their thirst will be so great that they will act like fools in order to thereby induce their idol to give them water. In all this, they are not turning to the living God. When Babylon is depopulated and the land has become a desert, no human being will ever be able to live there again (Jeremiah 50:39). The only inhabitants will be wild desert creatures along with the jackals and the ostriches. God has done to Babylon what He did to Sodom and Gomorrah and the neighboring places (Jeremiah 50:40).

For His judgment on Babylon, the LORD uses a people from the north (Jeremiah 50:41). They are a great people with numerous kings. They come from the corners of the earth. All their soldiers are skilled in the use of bow and spear (Jeremiah 50:42). They wield their weapons ruthlessly. Mercy they know not. Their voice of mass war cries sounds like the sea. They are also swift, for they ride horses. Then they line up for battle. There is no mistaking who the battle will be against. It is “against you, o daughter of Babylon”.

When the upcoming army in all its strength is thus painted, the king of Babylon loses courage (Jeremiah 50:43). He is seized with the distress that seizes a woman in childbirth. Then there is no strength or even thought of resistance. Babylon himself had been compared to a lion, but now his enemy is so represented (Jeremiah 50:44).

This lion – Cyrus, but in reality the LORD – emerges from “the thicket of the Jordan” and is sent by the LORD to Babylon, against that strong dwelling place. But his strong habitation offers no protection against this enemy. After all, the LORD has appointed him, hasn’t He? Who can raise any objection to that? No false shepherd who has so exploited His flock can stand before Him.

The plan concerning Babylon comes from the LORD (Jeremiah 50:45). He communicates His plans that He has devised against the land of the Chaldeans, and it is important to listen to them. The weakest of the flock, those who have been the prey of false shepherds and have not been able to defend themselves, will drag the mighty away from Babylon and destroy its habitation. The rumor that Babylon has been seized will cause great consternation in all the earth and among the nations (Jeremiah 50:46).

Ezekiel 23:22

The Enduring Fate of Babylon

Previously the sword of the LORD has come upon Judah (Jeremiah 12:12) and upon the Philistines (Jeremiah 47:6) Now it comes upon all the layers of Babylon (Jeremiah 50:35-37). It is the sword of the avenger of blood, of God as the Redeemer of His people. The sword of death comes against the Chaldeans, against the inhabitants of Babylon, against her officials and against her wise men (Jeremiah 50:35). The common man, the officials and the counselors all perish.

The LORD calls them “oracle priests” who, because of this judgment, do not come to understanding, but to acting foolishly (Jeremiah 50:36). Nothing is to be expected of their mighty men. The sword also comes against them and they will be shattered. There is no strength to defend themselves. Their horses and chariots also fall under the blows of the sword (Jeremiah 50:37). The strangers who are in their midst will become like frightened women. The treasures they have looted will be plundered. No one and nothing will remain of Babylon.

The next judgment is drought (Jeremiah 50:38). There will be no more water. Their thirst will be so great that they will act like fools in order to thereby induce their idol to give them water. In all this, they are not turning to the living God. When Babylon is depopulated and the land has become a desert, no human being will ever be able to live there again (Jeremiah 50:39). The only inhabitants will be wild desert creatures along with the jackals and the ostriches. God has done to Babylon what He did to Sodom and Gomorrah and the neighboring places (Jeremiah 50:40).

For His judgment on Babylon, the LORD uses a people from the north (Jeremiah 50:41). They are a great people with numerous kings. They come from the corners of the earth. All their soldiers are skilled in the use of bow and spear (Jeremiah 50:42). They wield their weapons ruthlessly. Mercy they know not. Their voice of mass war cries sounds like the sea. They are also swift, for they ride horses. Then they line up for battle. There is no mistaking who the battle will be against. It is “against you, o daughter of Babylon”.

When the upcoming army in all its strength is thus painted, the king of Babylon loses courage (Jeremiah 50:43). He is seized with the distress that seizes a woman in childbirth. Then there is no strength or even thought of resistance. Babylon himself had been compared to a lion, but now his enemy is so represented (Jeremiah 50:44).

This lion – Cyrus, but in reality the LORD – emerges from “the thicket of the Jordan” and is sent by the LORD to Babylon, against that strong dwelling place. But his strong habitation offers no protection against this enemy. After all, the LORD has appointed him, hasn’t He? Who can raise any objection to that? No false shepherd who has so exploited His flock can stand before Him.

The plan concerning Babylon comes from the LORD (Jeremiah 50:45). He communicates His plans that He has devised against the land of the Chaldeans, and it is important to listen to them. The weakest of the flock, those who have been the prey of false shepherds and have not been able to defend themselves, will drag the mighty away from Babylon and destroy its habitation. The rumor that Babylon has been seized will cause great consternation in all the earth and among the nations (Jeremiah 50:46).

Ezekiel 23:23

The Enduring Fate of Babylon

Previously the sword of the LORD has come upon Judah (Jeremiah 12:12) and upon the Philistines (Jeremiah 47:6) Now it comes upon all the layers of Babylon (Jeremiah 50:35-37). It is the sword of the avenger of blood, of God as the Redeemer of His people. The sword of death comes against the Chaldeans, against the inhabitants of Babylon, against her officials and against her wise men (Jeremiah 50:35). The common man, the officials and the counselors all perish.

The LORD calls them “oracle priests” who, because of this judgment, do not come to understanding, but to acting foolishly (Jeremiah 50:36). Nothing is to be expected of their mighty men. The sword also comes against them and they will be shattered. There is no strength to defend themselves. Their horses and chariots also fall under the blows of the sword (Jeremiah 50:37). The strangers who are in their midst will become like frightened women. The treasures they have looted will be plundered. No one and nothing will remain of Babylon.

The next judgment is drought (Jeremiah 50:38). There will be no more water. Their thirst will be so great that they will act like fools in order to thereby induce their idol to give them water. In all this, they are not turning to the living God. When Babylon is depopulated and the land has become a desert, no human being will ever be able to live there again (Jeremiah 50:39). The only inhabitants will be wild desert creatures along with the jackals and the ostriches. God has done to Babylon what He did to Sodom and Gomorrah and the neighboring places (Jeremiah 50:40).

For His judgment on Babylon, the LORD uses a people from the north (Jeremiah 50:41). They are a great people with numerous kings. They come from the corners of the earth. All their soldiers are skilled in the use of bow and spear (Jeremiah 50:42). They wield their weapons ruthlessly. Mercy they know not. Their voice of mass war cries sounds like the sea. They are also swift, for they ride horses. Then they line up for battle. There is no mistaking who the battle will be against. It is “against you, o daughter of Babylon”.

When the upcoming army in all its strength is thus painted, the king of Babylon loses courage (Jeremiah 50:43). He is seized with the distress that seizes a woman in childbirth. Then there is no strength or even thought of resistance. Babylon himself had been compared to a lion, but now his enemy is so represented (Jeremiah 50:44).

This lion – Cyrus, but in reality the LORD – emerges from “the thicket of the Jordan” and is sent by the LORD to Babylon, against that strong dwelling place. But his strong habitation offers no protection against this enemy. After all, the LORD has appointed him, hasn’t He? Who can raise any objection to that? No false shepherd who has so exploited His flock can stand before Him.

The plan concerning Babylon comes from the LORD (Jeremiah 50:45). He communicates His plans that He has devised against the land of the Chaldeans, and it is important to listen to them. The weakest of the flock, those who have been the prey of false shepherds and have not been able to defend themselves, will drag the mighty away from Babylon and destroy its habitation. The rumor that Babylon has been seized will cause great consternation in all the earth and among the nations (Jeremiah 50:46).

Ezekiel 23:24

The Enduring Fate of Babylon

Previously the sword of the LORD has come upon Judah (Jeremiah 12:12) and upon the Philistines (Jeremiah 47:6) Now it comes upon all the layers of Babylon (Jeremiah 50:35-37). It is the sword of the avenger of blood, of God as the Redeemer of His people. The sword of death comes against the Chaldeans, against the inhabitants of Babylon, against her officials and against her wise men (Jeremiah 50:35). The common man, the officials and the counselors all perish.

The LORD calls them “oracle priests” who, because of this judgment, do not come to understanding, but to acting foolishly (Jeremiah 50:36). Nothing is to be expected of their mighty men. The sword also comes against them and they will be shattered. There is no strength to defend themselves. Their horses and chariots also fall under the blows of the sword (Jeremiah 50:37). The strangers who are in their midst will become like frightened women. The treasures they have looted will be plundered. No one and nothing will remain of Babylon.

The next judgment is drought (Jeremiah 50:38). There will be no more water. Their thirst will be so great that they will act like fools in order to thereby induce their idol to give them water. In all this, they are not turning to the living God. When Babylon is depopulated and the land has become a desert, no human being will ever be able to live there again (Jeremiah 50:39). The only inhabitants will be wild desert creatures along with the jackals and the ostriches. God has done to Babylon what He did to Sodom and Gomorrah and the neighboring places (Jeremiah 50:40).

For His judgment on Babylon, the LORD uses a people from the north (Jeremiah 50:41). They are a great people with numerous kings. They come from the corners of the earth. All their soldiers are skilled in the use of bow and spear (Jeremiah 50:42). They wield their weapons ruthlessly. Mercy they know not. Their voice of mass war cries sounds like the sea. They are also swift, for they ride horses. Then they line up for battle. There is no mistaking who the battle will be against. It is “against you, o daughter of Babylon”.

When the upcoming army in all its strength is thus painted, the king of Babylon loses courage (Jeremiah 50:43). He is seized with the distress that seizes a woman in childbirth. Then there is no strength or even thought of resistance. Babylon himself had been compared to a lion, but now his enemy is so represented (Jeremiah 50:44).

This lion – Cyrus, but in reality the LORD – emerges from “the thicket of the Jordan” and is sent by the LORD to Babylon, against that strong dwelling place. But his strong habitation offers no protection against this enemy. After all, the LORD has appointed him, hasn’t He? Who can raise any objection to that? No false shepherd who has so exploited His flock can stand before Him.

The plan concerning Babylon comes from the LORD (Jeremiah 50:45). He communicates His plans that He has devised against the land of the Chaldeans, and it is important to listen to them. The weakest of the flock, those who have been the prey of false shepherds and have not been able to defend themselves, will drag the mighty away from Babylon and destroy its habitation. The rumor that Babylon has been seized will cause great consternation in all the earth and among the nations (Jeremiah 50:46).

Ezekiel 23:25

The Enduring Fate of Babylon

Previously the sword of the LORD has come upon Judah (Jeremiah 12:12) and upon the Philistines (Jeremiah 47:6) Now it comes upon all the layers of Babylon (Jeremiah 50:35-37). It is the sword of the avenger of blood, of God as the Redeemer of His people. The sword of death comes against the Chaldeans, against the inhabitants of Babylon, against her officials and against her wise men (Jeremiah 50:35). The common man, the officials and the counselors all perish.

The LORD calls them “oracle priests” who, because of this judgment, do not come to understanding, but to acting foolishly (Jeremiah 50:36). Nothing is to be expected of their mighty men. The sword also comes against them and they will be shattered. There is no strength to defend themselves. Their horses and chariots also fall under the blows of the sword (Jeremiah 50:37). The strangers who are in their midst will become like frightened women. The treasures they have looted will be plundered. No one and nothing will remain of Babylon.

The next judgment is drought (Jeremiah 50:38). There will be no more water. Their thirst will be so great that they will act like fools in order to thereby induce their idol to give them water. In all this, they are not turning to the living God. When Babylon is depopulated and the land has become a desert, no human being will ever be able to live there again (Jeremiah 50:39). The only inhabitants will be wild desert creatures along with the jackals and the ostriches. God has done to Babylon what He did to Sodom and Gomorrah and the neighboring places (Jeremiah 50:40).

For His judgment on Babylon, the LORD uses a people from the north (Jeremiah 50:41). They are a great people with numerous kings. They come from the corners of the earth. All their soldiers are skilled in the use of bow and spear (Jeremiah 50:42). They wield their weapons ruthlessly. Mercy they know not. Their voice of mass war cries sounds like the sea. They are also swift, for they ride horses. Then they line up for battle. There is no mistaking who the battle will be against. It is “against you, o daughter of Babylon”.

When the upcoming army in all its strength is thus painted, the king of Babylon loses courage (Jeremiah 50:43). He is seized with the distress that seizes a woman in childbirth. Then there is no strength or even thought of resistance. Babylon himself had been compared to a lion, but now his enemy is so represented (Jeremiah 50:44).

This lion – Cyrus, but in reality the LORD – emerges from “the thicket of the Jordan” and is sent by the LORD to Babylon, against that strong dwelling place. But his strong habitation offers no protection against this enemy. After all, the LORD has appointed him, hasn’t He? Who can raise any objection to that? No false shepherd who has so exploited His flock can stand before Him.

The plan concerning Babylon comes from the LORD (Jeremiah 50:45). He communicates His plans that He has devised against the land of the Chaldeans, and it is important to listen to them. The weakest of the flock, those who have been the prey of false shepherds and have not been able to defend themselves, will drag the mighty away from Babylon and destroy its habitation. The rumor that Babylon has been seized will cause great consternation in all the earth and among the nations (Jeremiah 50:46).

Ezekiel 23:26

The Enduring Fate of Babylon

Previously the sword of the LORD has come upon Judah (Jeremiah 12:12) and upon the Philistines (Jeremiah 47:6) Now it comes upon all the layers of Babylon (Jeremiah 50:35-37). It is the sword of the avenger of blood, of God as the Redeemer of His people. The sword of death comes against the Chaldeans, against the inhabitants of Babylon, against her officials and against her wise men (Jeremiah 50:35). The common man, the officials and the counselors all perish.

The LORD calls them “oracle priests” who, because of this judgment, do not come to understanding, but to acting foolishly (Jeremiah 50:36). Nothing is to be expected of their mighty men. The sword also comes against them and they will be shattered. There is no strength to defend themselves. Their horses and chariots also fall under the blows of the sword (Jeremiah 50:37). The strangers who are in their midst will become like frightened women. The treasures they have looted will be plundered. No one and nothing will remain of Babylon.

The next judgment is drought (Jeremiah 50:38). There will be no more water. Their thirst will be so great that they will act like fools in order to thereby induce their idol to give them water. In all this, they are not turning to the living God. When Babylon is depopulated and the land has become a desert, no human being will ever be able to live there again (Jeremiah 50:39). The only inhabitants will be wild desert creatures along with the jackals and the ostriches. God has done to Babylon what He did to Sodom and Gomorrah and the neighboring places (Jeremiah 50:40).

For His judgment on Babylon, the LORD uses a people from the north (Jeremiah 50:41). They are a great people with numerous kings. They come from the corners of the earth. All their soldiers are skilled in the use of bow and spear (Jeremiah 50:42). They wield their weapons ruthlessly. Mercy they know not. Their voice of mass war cries sounds like the sea. They are also swift, for they ride horses. Then they line up for battle. There is no mistaking who the battle will be against. It is “against you, o daughter of Babylon”.

When the upcoming army in all its strength is thus painted, the king of Babylon loses courage (Jeremiah 50:43). He is seized with the distress that seizes a woman in childbirth. Then there is no strength or even thought of resistance. Babylon himself had been compared to a lion, but now his enemy is so represented (Jeremiah 50:44).

This lion – Cyrus, but in reality the LORD – emerges from “the thicket of the Jordan” and is sent by the LORD to Babylon, against that strong dwelling place. But his strong habitation offers no protection against this enemy. After all, the LORD has appointed him, hasn’t He? Who can raise any objection to that? No false shepherd who has so exploited His flock can stand before Him.

The plan concerning Babylon comes from the LORD (Jeremiah 50:45). He communicates His plans that He has devised against the land of the Chaldeans, and it is important to listen to them. The weakest of the flock, those who have been the prey of false shepherds and have not been able to defend themselves, will drag the mighty away from Babylon and destroy its habitation. The rumor that Babylon has been seized will cause great consternation in all the earth and among the nations (Jeremiah 50:46).

Ezekiel 23:28

The Vengeance of the LORD on Babylon

This chapter continues the description of the judgment on Babylon that began in the previous chapter. The LORD uses every possible example and word to let us know how much He is wroth with Babylon and what He will do to her. Now He speaks of a spirit that He will stir up, a spirit that will destroy (Jeremiah 51:1). That spirit will come “against Babylon and against the inhabitants of Leb-kamai”. “Leb-kamai” is Hebrew for “heart of those who rise up against Me”. He will give in Babylon an evil spirit that will plunge her into destruction.

There will be foreigners who will winnow Babylon, enemies who will take away all that is precious from the land, leaving what is worthless (Jeremiah 51:2). Winnowing is also connected to the spirit (or wind, it is the same word) of Jeremiah 51:1. Winnowing is done by the wind. The wind then does take the worthless and scatters it, while what is precious is left behind. The enemy will scatter the people as worthless and appropriate the treasures.

Although the Babylonians are ready with bow and armor to defend themselves, all opposition will be ruthlessly struck down (Jeremiah 51:3). The young men are not spared, and all the army of Babylon is struck down. Dead bodies lie all over the land and in the streets of the cities (Jeremiah 51:4).

The LORD is also wroth with Israel and Judah, but He will have mercy on them (Jeremiah 51:5). Their land is full of guilt, the LORD sees this very well, yet He will not put an end to that people precisely because He is “the Holy One of Israel”. Isaiah uses this Name for the LORD 25 times. Jeremiah uses that Name here for the second and last time (Jeremiah 50:29), both times in connection with the judgment on Babylon. Therefore, He calls His people to flee from Babylon and not be destroyed together with her in her punishment (Jeremiah 51:6; Jeremiah 50:8). Babylon will receive from the LORD the judgment it deserves and the time for that is now.

Babylon was used by the LORD as a golden cup, a cup containing the wine of the wrath of God (Jeremiah 51:7). Nebuchadnezzar is the golden head (Daniel 2:38), to whom the LORD has given authority over all the nations. He executed God’s judgment on the nations. Every nation has trembled before him. But his power has come to a sudden end (Jeremiah 51:8). He has famously relied on his own power and has no regard for the LORD.

Attempts have been made, however, to heal Babylon again, to cure her. Indeed, Babylon has also brought many benefits. It has been a good land to live in. The fact that one was no longer free did not play a major role. However, the attempts to heal Babylon have proven to be in vain (Jeremiah 51:9). Therefore, everyone is telling each other to take the opportunity and return to their own land. It is pointless to stay there any longer because the situation is worsening instead of improving.

Israel will become aware that the LORD has stood up for them (Jeremiah 51:10). They are aware of how the LORD sees them according to His counsel. They also tell one another to go to their land. They do so with the intention of telling in Zion the deeds of the LORD their God. Herein lies the lesson for us that when the Lord has delivered us from a distressing situation, it is good to tell of it in the place where He dwells, the local church.

The LORD calls His instrument to sharpen the arrows and fill the quivers (Jeremiah 51:11). He is stirring up the spirit of the kings of the Medes against Babylon. This is in keeping with His plan to destroy Babylon. Babylon has destroyed His temple and for that it has brought upon itself the vengeance of the LORD. It will know against Whom it has rebelled.

The LORD begins by lifting up a signal, indicating that victory has been won even before the war has begun (Jeremiah 51:12). Before the battle itself, He gives orders to strengthen the guard, station sentries, and place men in ambush. The certainty of victory does not make one overconfident. In this way, He will also carry out His purpose that He has spoken.

Babylon dwells by many waters (Jeremiah 51:13), that is, it rules over many nations (Revelation 17:15). Babylon is also rich. She obtained this wealth through unbridled greed. However, her power and wealth are worthless as protection from God’s judgment. Babylon owes it to the LORD of hosts to have become as numerous as a swarm of migrating locusts, but she has given all the glory for it to herself. Therefore the LORD of hosts has sworn by Himself that He will judge her (Jeremiah 51:14). This will cause a shout of joy among the oppressed peoples.

Ezekiel 23:29

The Vengeance of the LORD on Babylon

This chapter continues the description of the judgment on Babylon that began in the previous chapter. The LORD uses every possible example and word to let us know how much He is wroth with Babylon and what He will do to her. Now He speaks of a spirit that He will stir up, a spirit that will destroy (Jeremiah 51:1). That spirit will come “against Babylon and against the inhabitants of Leb-kamai”. “Leb-kamai” is Hebrew for “heart of those who rise up against Me”. He will give in Babylon an evil spirit that will plunge her into destruction.

There will be foreigners who will winnow Babylon, enemies who will take away all that is precious from the land, leaving what is worthless (Jeremiah 51:2). Winnowing is also connected to the spirit (or wind, it is the same word) of Jeremiah 51:1. Winnowing is done by the wind. The wind then does take the worthless and scatters it, while what is precious is left behind. The enemy will scatter the people as worthless and appropriate the treasures.

Although the Babylonians are ready with bow and armor to defend themselves, all opposition will be ruthlessly struck down (Jeremiah 51:3). The young men are not spared, and all the army of Babylon is struck down. Dead bodies lie all over the land and in the streets of the cities (Jeremiah 51:4).

The LORD is also wroth with Israel and Judah, but He will have mercy on them (Jeremiah 51:5). Their land is full of guilt, the LORD sees this very well, yet He will not put an end to that people precisely because He is “the Holy One of Israel”. Isaiah uses this Name for the LORD 25 times. Jeremiah uses that Name here for the second and last time (Jeremiah 50:29), both times in connection with the judgment on Babylon. Therefore, He calls His people to flee from Babylon and not be destroyed together with her in her punishment (Jeremiah 51:6; Jeremiah 50:8). Babylon will receive from the LORD the judgment it deserves and the time for that is now.

Babylon was used by the LORD as a golden cup, a cup containing the wine of the wrath of God (Jeremiah 51:7). Nebuchadnezzar is the golden head (Daniel 2:38), to whom the LORD has given authority over all the nations. He executed God’s judgment on the nations. Every nation has trembled before him. But his power has come to a sudden end (Jeremiah 51:8). He has famously relied on his own power and has no regard for the LORD.

Attempts have been made, however, to heal Babylon again, to cure her. Indeed, Babylon has also brought many benefits. It has been a good land to live in. The fact that one was no longer free did not play a major role. However, the attempts to heal Babylon have proven to be in vain (Jeremiah 51:9). Therefore, everyone is telling each other to take the opportunity and return to their own land. It is pointless to stay there any longer because the situation is worsening instead of improving.

Israel will become aware that the LORD has stood up for them (Jeremiah 51:10). They are aware of how the LORD sees them according to His counsel. They also tell one another to go to their land. They do so with the intention of telling in Zion the deeds of the LORD their God. Herein lies the lesson for us that when the Lord has delivered us from a distressing situation, it is good to tell of it in the place where He dwells, the local church.

The LORD calls His instrument to sharpen the arrows and fill the quivers (Jeremiah 51:11). He is stirring up the spirit of the kings of the Medes against Babylon. This is in keeping with His plan to destroy Babylon. Babylon has destroyed His temple and for that it has brought upon itself the vengeance of the LORD. It will know against Whom it has rebelled.

The LORD begins by lifting up a signal, indicating that victory has been won even before the war has begun (Jeremiah 51:12). Before the battle itself, He gives orders to strengthen the guard, station sentries, and place men in ambush. The certainty of victory does not make one overconfident. In this way, He will also carry out His purpose that He has spoken.

Babylon dwells by many waters (Jeremiah 51:13), that is, it rules over many nations (Revelation 17:15). Babylon is also rich. She obtained this wealth through unbridled greed. However, her power and wealth are worthless as protection from God’s judgment. Babylon owes it to the LORD of hosts to have become as numerous as a swarm of migrating locusts, but she has given all the glory for it to herself. Therefore the LORD of hosts has sworn by Himself that He will judge her (Jeremiah 51:14). This will cause a shout of joy among the oppressed peoples.

Ezekiel 23:30

The Vengeance of the LORD on Babylon

This chapter continues the description of the judgment on Babylon that began in the previous chapter. The LORD uses every possible example and word to let us know how much He is wroth with Babylon and what He will do to her. Now He speaks of a spirit that He will stir up, a spirit that will destroy (Jeremiah 51:1). That spirit will come “against Babylon and against the inhabitants of Leb-kamai”. “Leb-kamai” is Hebrew for “heart of those who rise up against Me”. He will give in Babylon an evil spirit that will plunge her into destruction.

There will be foreigners who will winnow Babylon, enemies who will take away all that is precious from the land, leaving what is worthless (Jeremiah 51:2). Winnowing is also connected to the spirit (or wind, it is the same word) of Jeremiah 51:1. Winnowing is done by the wind. The wind then does take the worthless and scatters it, while what is precious is left behind. The enemy will scatter the people as worthless and appropriate the treasures.

Although the Babylonians are ready with bow and armor to defend themselves, all opposition will be ruthlessly struck down (Jeremiah 51:3). The young men are not spared, and all the army of Babylon is struck down. Dead bodies lie all over the land and in the streets of the cities (Jeremiah 51:4).

The LORD is also wroth with Israel and Judah, but He will have mercy on them (Jeremiah 51:5). Their land is full of guilt, the LORD sees this very well, yet He will not put an end to that people precisely because He is “the Holy One of Israel”. Isaiah uses this Name for the LORD 25 times. Jeremiah uses that Name here for the second and last time (Jeremiah 50:29), both times in connection with the judgment on Babylon. Therefore, He calls His people to flee from Babylon and not be destroyed together with her in her punishment (Jeremiah 51:6; Jeremiah 50:8). Babylon will receive from the LORD the judgment it deserves and the time for that is now.

Babylon was used by the LORD as a golden cup, a cup containing the wine of the wrath of God (Jeremiah 51:7). Nebuchadnezzar is the golden head (Daniel 2:38), to whom the LORD has given authority over all the nations. He executed God’s judgment on the nations. Every nation has trembled before him. But his power has come to a sudden end (Jeremiah 51:8). He has famously relied on his own power and has no regard for the LORD.

Attempts have been made, however, to heal Babylon again, to cure her. Indeed, Babylon has also brought many benefits. It has been a good land to live in. The fact that one was no longer free did not play a major role. However, the attempts to heal Babylon have proven to be in vain (Jeremiah 51:9). Therefore, everyone is telling each other to take the opportunity and return to their own land. It is pointless to stay there any longer because the situation is worsening instead of improving.

Israel will become aware that the LORD has stood up for them (Jeremiah 51:10). They are aware of how the LORD sees them according to His counsel. They also tell one another to go to their land. They do so with the intention of telling in Zion the deeds of the LORD their God. Herein lies the lesson for us that when the Lord has delivered us from a distressing situation, it is good to tell of it in the place where He dwells, the local church.

The LORD calls His instrument to sharpen the arrows and fill the quivers (Jeremiah 51:11). He is stirring up the spirit of the kings of the Medes against Babylon. This is in keeping with His plan to destroy Babylon. Babylon has destroyed His temple and for that it has brought upon itself the vengeance of the LORD. It will know against Whom it has rebelled.

The LORD begins by lifting up a signal, indicating that victory has been won even before the war has begun (Jeremiah 51:12). Before the battle itself, He gives orders to strengthen the guard, station sentries, and place men in ambush. The certainty of victory does not make one overconfident. In this way, He will also carry out His purpose that He has spoken.

Babylon dwells by many waters (Jeremiah 51:13), that is, it rules over many nations (Revelation 17:15). Babylon is also rich. She obtained this wealth through unbridled greed. However, her power and wealth are worthless as protection from God’s judgment. Babylon owes it to the LORD of hosts to have become as numerous as a swarm of migrating locusts, but she has given all the glory for it to herself. Therefore the LORD of hosts has sworn by Himself that He will judge her (Jeremiah 51:14). This will cause a shout of joy among the oppressed peoples.

Ezekiel 23:31

The Vengeance of the LORD on Babylon

This chapter continues the description of the judgment on Babylon that began in the previous chapter. The LORD uses every possible example and word to let us know how much He is wroth with Babylon and what He will do to her. Now He speaks of a spirit that He will stir up, a spirit that will destroy (Jeremiah 51:1). That spirit will come “against Babylon and against the inhabitants of Leb-kamai”. “Leb-kamai” is Hebrew for “heart of those who rise up against Me”. He will give in Babylon an evil spirit that will plunge her into destruction.

There will be foreigners who will winnow Babylon, enemies who will take away all that is precious from the land, leaving what is worthless (Jeremiah 51:2). Winnowing is also connected to the spirit (or wind, it is the same word) of Jeremiah 51:1. Winnowing is done by the wind. The wind then does take the worthless and scatters it, while what is precious is left behind. The enemy will scatter the people as worthless and appropriate the treasures.

Although the Babylonians are ready with bow and armor to defend themselves, all opposition will be ruthlessly struck down (Jeremiah 51:3). The young men are not spared, and all the army of Babylon is struck down. Dead bodies lie all over the land and in the streets of the cities (Jeremiah 51:4).

The LORD is also wroth with Israel and Judah, but He will have mercy on them (Jeremiah 51:5). Their land is full of guilt, the LORD sees this very well, yet He will not put an end to that people precisely because He is “the Holy One of Israel”. Isaiah uses this Name for the LORD 25 times. Jeremiah uses that Name here for the second and last time (Jeremiah 50:29), both times in connection with the judgment on Babylon. Therefore, He calls His people to flee from Babylon and not be destroyed together with her in her punishment (Jeremiah 51:6; Jeremiah 50:8). Babylon will receive from the LORD the judgment it deserves and the time for that is now.

Babylon was used by the LORD as a golden cup, a cup containing the wine of the wrath of God (Jeremiah 51:7). Nebuchadnezzar is the golden head (Daniel 2:38), to whom the LORD has given authority over all the nations. He executed God’s judgment on the nations. Every nation has trembled before him. But his power has come to a sudden end (Jeremiah 51:8). He has famously relied on his own power and has no regard for the LORD.

Attempts have been made, however, to heal Babylon again, to cure her. Indeed, Babylon has also brought many benefits. It has been a good land to live in. The fact that one was no longer free did not play a major role. However, the attempts to heal Babylon have proven to be in vain (Jeremiah 51:9). Therefore, everyone is telling each other to take the opportunity and return to their own land. It is pointless to stay there any longer because the situation is worsening instead of improving.

Israel will become aware that the LORD has stood up for them (Jeremiah 51:10). They are aware of how the LORD sees them according to His counsel. They also tell one another to go to their land. They do so with the intention of telling in Zion the deeds of the LORD their God. Herein lies the lesson for us that when the Lord has delivered us from a distressing situation, it is good to tell of it in the place where He dwells, the local church.

The LORD calls His instrument to sharpen the arrows and fill the quivers (Jeremiah 51:11). He is stirring up the spirit of the kings of the Medes against Babylon. This is in keeping with His plan to destroy Babylon. Babylon has destroyed His temple and for that it has brought upon itself the vengeance of the LORD. It will know against Whom it has rebelled.

The LORD begins by lifting up a signal, indicating that victory has been won even before the war has begun (Jeremiah 51:12). Before the battle itself, He gives orders to strengthen the guard, station sentries, and place men in ambush. The certainty of victory does not make one overconfident. In this way, He will also carry out His purpose that He has spoken.

Babylon dwells by many waters (Jeremiah 51:13), that is, it rules over many nations (Revelation 17:15). Babylon is also rich. She obtained this wealth through unbridled greed. However, her power and wealth are worthless as protection from God’s judgment. Babylon owes it to the LORD of hosts to have become as numerous as a swarm of migrating locusts, but she has given all the glory for it to herself. Therefore the LORD of hosts has sworn by Himself that He will judge her (Jeremiah 51:14). This will cause a shout of joy among the oppressed peoples.

Ezekiel 23:32

The Vengeance of the LORD on Babylon

This chapter continues the description of the judgment on Babylon that began in the previous chapter. The LORD uses every possible example and word to let us know how much He is wroth with Babylon and what He will do to her. Now He speaks of a spirit that He will stir up, a spirit that will destroy (Jeremiah 51:1). That spirit will come “against Babylon and against the inhabitants of Leb-kamai”. “Leb-kamai” is Hebrew for “heart of those who rise up against Me”. He will give in Babylon an evil spirit that will plunge her into destruction.

There will be foreigners who will winnow Babylon, enemies who will take away all that is precious from the land, leaving what is worthless (Jeremiah 51:2). Winnowing is also connected to the spirit (or wind, it is the same word) of Jeremiah 51:1. Winnowing is done by the wind. The wind then does take the worthless and scatters it, while what is precious is left behind. The enemy will scatter the people as worthless and appropriate the treasures.

Although the Babylonians are ready with bow and armor to defend themselves, all opposition will be ruthlessly struck down (Jeremiah 51:3). The young men are not spared, and all the army of Babylon is struck down. Dead bodies lie all over the land and in the streets of the cities (Jeremiah 51:4).

The LORD is also wroth with Israel and Judah, but He will have mercy on them (Jeremiah 51:5). Their land is full of guilt, the LORD sees this very well, yet He will not put an end to that people precisely because He is “the Holy One of Israel”. Isaiah uses this Name for the LORD 25 times. Jeremiah uses that Name here for the second and last time (Jeremiah 50:29), both times in connection with the judgment on Babylon. Therefore, He calls His people to flee from Babylon and not be destroyed together with her in her punishment (Jeremiah 51:6; Jeremiah 50:8). Babylon will receive from the LORD the judgment it deserves and the time for that is now.

Babylon was used by the LORD as a golden cup, a cup containing the wine of the wrath of God (Jeremiah 51:7). Nebuchadnezzar is the golden head (Daniel 2:38), to whom the LORD has given authority over all the nations. He executed God’s judgment on the nations. Every nation has trembled before him. But his power has come to a sudden end (Jeremiah 51:8). He has famously relied on his own power and has no regard for the LORD.

Attempts have been made, however, to heal Babylon again, to cure her. Indeed, Babylon has also brought many benefits. It has been a good land to live in. The fact that one was no longer free did not play a major role. However, the attempts to heal Babylon have proven to be in vain (Jeremiah 51:9). Therefore, everyone is telling each other to take the opportunity and return to their own land. It is pointless to stay there any longer because the situation is worsening instead of improving.

Israel will become aware that the LORD has stood up for them (Jeremiah 51:10). They are aware of how the LORD sees them according to His counsel. They also tell one another to go to their land. They do so with the intention of telling in Zion the deeds of the LORD their God. Herein lies the lesson for us that when the Lord has delivered us from a distressing situation, it is good to tell of it in the place where He dwells, the local church.

The LORD calls His instrument to sharpen the arrows and fill the quivers (Jeremiah 51:11). He is stirring up the spirit of the kings of the Medes against Babylon. This is in keeping with His plan to destroy Babylon. Babylon has destroyed His temple and for that it has brought upon itself the vengeance of the LORD. It will know against Whom it has rebelled.

The LORD begins by lifting up a signal, indicating that victory has been won even before the war has begun (Jeremiah 51:12). Before the battle itself, He gives orders to strengthen the guard, station sentries, and place men in ambush. The certainty of victory does not make one overconfident. In this way, He will also carry out His purpose that He has spoken.

Babylon dwells by many waters (Jeremiah 51:13), that is, it rules over many nations (Revelation 17:15). Babylon is also rich. She obtained this wealth through unbridled greed. However, her power and wealth are worthless as protection from God’s judgment. Babylon owes it to the LORD of hosts to have become as numerous as a swarm of migrating locusts, but she has given all the glory for it to herself. Therefore the LORD of hosts has sworn by Himself that He will judge her (Jeremiah 51:14). This will cause a shout of joy among the oppressed peoples.

Ezekiel 23:33

The Vengeance of the LORD on Babylon

This chapter continues the description of the judgment on Babylon that began in the previous chapter. The LORD uses every possible example and word to let us know how much He is wroth with Babylon and what He will do to her. Now He speaks of a spirit that He will stir up, a spirit that will destroy (Jeremiah 51:1). That spirit will come “against Babylon and against the inhabitants of Leb-kamai”. “Leb-kamai” is Hebrew for “heart of those who rise up against Me”. He will give in Babylon an evil spirit that will plunge her into destruction.

There will be foreigners who will winnow Babylon, enemies who will take away all that is precious from the land, leaving what is worthless (Jeremiah 51:2). Winnowing is also connected to the spirit (or wind, it is the same word) of Jeremiah 51:1. Winnowing is done by the wind. The wind then does take the worthless and scatters it, while what is precious is left behind. The enemy will scatter the people as worthless and appropriate the treasures.

Although the Babylonians are ready with bow and armor to defend themselves, all opposition will be ruthlessly struck down (Jeremiah 51:3). The young men are not spared, and all the army of Babylon is struck down. Dead bodies lie all over the land and in the streets of the cities (Jeremiah 51:4).

The LORD is also wroth with Israel and Judah, but He will have mercy on them (Jeremiah 51:5). Their land is full of guilt, the LORD sees this very well, yet He will not put an end to that people precisely because He is “the Holy One of Israel”. Isaiah uses this Name for the LORD 25 times. Jeremiah uses that Name here for the second and last time (Jeremiah 50:29), both times in connection with the judgment on Babylon. Therefore, He calls His people to flee from Babylon and not be destroyed together with her in her punishment (Jeremiah 51:6; Jeremiah 50:8). Babylon will receive from the LORD the judgment it deserves and the time for that is now.

Babylon was used by the LORD as a golden cup, a cup containing the wine of the wrath of God (Jeremiah 51:7). Nebuchadnezzar is the golden head (Daniel 2:38), to whom the LORD has given authority over all the nations. He executed God’s judgment on the nations. Every nation has trembled before him. But his power has come to a sudden end (Jeremiah 51:8). He has famously relied on his own power and has no regard for the LORD.

Attempts have been made, however, to heal Babylon again, to cure her. Indeed, Babylon has also brought many benefits. It has been a good land to live in. The fact that one was no longer free did not play a major role. However, the attempts to heal Babylon have proven to be in vain (Jeremiah 51:9). Therefore, everyone is telling each other to take the opportunity and return to their own land. It is pointless to stay there any longer because the situation is worsening instead of improving.

Israel will become aware that the LORD has stood up for them (Jeremiah 51:10). They are aware of how the LORD sees them according to His counsel. They also tell one another to go to their land. They do so with the intention of telling in Zion the deeds of the LORD their God. Herein lies the lesson for us that when the Lord has delivered us from a distressing situation, it is good to tell of it in the place where He dwells, the local church.

The LORD calls His instrument to sharpen the arrows and fill the quivers (Jeremiah 51:11). He is stirring up the spirit of the kings of the Medes against Babylon. This is in keeping with His plan to destroy Babylon. Babylon has destroyed His temple and for that it has brought upon itself the vengeance of the LORD. It will know against Whom it has rebelled.

The LORD begins by lifting up a signal, indicating that victory has been won even before the war has begun (Jeremiah 51:12). Before the battle itself, He gives orders to strengthen the guard, station sentries, and place men in ambush. The certainty of victory does not make one overconfident. In this way, He will also carry out His purpose that He has spoken.

Babylon dwells by many waters (Jeremiah 51:13), that is, it rules over many nations (Revelation 17:15). Babylon is also rich. She obtained this wealth through unbridled greed. However, her power and wealth are worthless as protection from God’s judgment. Babylon owes it to the LORD of hosts to have become as numerous as a swarm of migrating locusts, but she has given all the glory for it to herself. Therefore the LORD of hosts has sworn by Himself that He will judge her (Jeremiah 51:14). This will cause a shout of joy among the oppressed peoples.

Ezekiel 23:34

The Vengeance of the LORD on Babylon

This chapter continues the description of the judgment on Babylon that began in the previous chapter. The LORD uses every possible example and word to let us know how much He is wroth with Babylon and what He will do to her. Now He speaks of a spirit that He will stir up, a spirit that will destroy (Jeremiah 51:1). That spirit will come “against Babylon and against the inhabitants of Leb-kamai”. “Leb-kamai” is Hebrew for “heart of those who rise up against Me”. He will give in Babylon an evil spirit that will plunge her into destruction.

There will be foreigners who will winnow Babylon, enemies who will take away all that is precious from the land, leaving what is worthless (Jeremiah 51:2). Winnowing is also connected to the spirit (or wind, it is the same word) of Jeremiah 51:1. Winnowing is done by the wind. The wind then does take the worthless and scatters it, while what is precious is left behind. The enemy will scatter the people as worthless and appropriate the treasures.

Although the Babylonians are ready with bow and armor to defend themselves, all opposition will be ruthlessly struck down (Jeremiah 51:3). The young men are not spared, and all the army of Babylon is struck down. Dead bodies lie all over the land and in the streets of the cities (Jeremiah 51:4).

The LORD is also wroth with Israel and Judah, but He will have mercy on them (Jeremiah 51:5). Their land is full of guilt, the LORD sees this very well, yet He will not put an end to that people precisely because He is “the Holy One of Israel”. Isaiah uses this Name for the LORD 25 times. Jeremiah uses that Name here for the second and last time (Jeremiah 50:29), both times in connection with the judgment on Babylon. Therefore, He calls His people to flee from Babylon and not be destroyed together with her in her punishment (Jeremiah 51:6; Jeremiah 50:8). Babylon will receive from the LORD the judgment it deserves and the time for that is now.

Babylon was used by the LORD as a golden cup, a cup containing the wine of the wrath of God (Jeremiah 51:7). Nebuchadnezzar is the golden head (Daniel 2:38), to whom the LORD has given authority over all the nations. He executed God’s judgment on the nations. Every nation has trembled before him. But his power has come to a sudden end (Jeremiah 51:8). He has famously relied on his own power and has no regard for the LORD.

Attempts have been made, however, to heal Babylon again, to cure her. Indeed, Babylon has also brought many benefits. It has been a good land to live in. The fact that one was no longer free did not play a major role. However, the attempts to heal Babylon have proven to be in vain (Jeremiah 51:9). Therefore, everyone is telling each other to take the opportunity and return to their own land. It is pointless to stay there any longer because the situation is worsening instead of improving.

Israel will become aware that the LORD has stood up for them (Jeremiah 51:10). They are aware of how the LORD sees them according to His counsel. They also tell one another to go to their land. They do so with the intention of telling in Zion the deeds of the LORD their God. Herein lies the lesson for us that when the Lord has delivered us from a distressing situation, it is good to tell of it in the place where He dwells, the local church.

The LORD calls His instrument to sharpen the arrows and fill the quivers (Jeremiah 51:11). He is stirring up the spirit of the kings of the Medes against Babylon. This is in keeping with His plan to destroy Babylon. Babylon has destroyed His temple and for that it has brought upon itself the vengeance of the LORD. It will know against Whom it has rebelled.

The LORD begins by lifting up a signal, indicating that victory has been won even before the war has begun (Jeremiah 51:12). Before the battle itself, He gives orders to strengthen the guard, station sentries, and place men in ambush. The certainty of victory does not make one overconfident. In this way, He will also carry out His purpose that He has spoken.

Babylon dwells by many waters (Jeremiah 51:13), that is, it rules over many nations (Revelation 17:15). Babylon is also rich. She obtained this wealth through unbridled greed. However, her power and wealth are worthless as protection from God’s judgment. Babylon owes it to the LORD of hosts to have become as numerous as a swarm of migrating locusts, but she has given all the glory for it to herself. Therefore the LORD of hosts has sworn by Himself that He will judge her (Jeremiah 51:14). This will cause a shout of joy among the oppressed peoples.

Ezekiel 23:35

The Vengeance of the LORD on Babylon

This chapter continues the description of the judgment on Babylon that began in the previous chapter. The LORD uses every possible example and word to let us know how much He is wroth with Babylon and what He will do to her. Now He speaks of a spirit that He will stir up, a spirit that will destroy (Jeremiah 51:1). That spirit will come “against Babylon and against the inhabitants of Leb-kamai”. “Leb-kamai” is Hebrew for “heart of those who rise up against Me”. He will give in Babylon an evil spirit that will plunge her into destruction.

There will be foreigners who will winnow Babylon, enemies who will take away all that is precious from the land, leaving what is worthless (Jeremiah 51:2). Winnowing is also connected to the spirit (or wind, it is the same word) of Jeremiah 51:1. Winnowing is done by the wind. The wind then does take the worthless and scatters it, while what is precious is left behind. The enemy will scatter the people as worthless and appropriate the treasures.

Although the Babylonians are ready with bow and armor to defend themselves, all opposition will be ruthlessly struck down (Jeremiah 51:3). The young men are not spared, and all the army of Babylon is struck down. Dead bodies lie all over the land and in the streets of the cities (Jeremiah 51:4).

The LORD is also wroth with Israel and Judah, but He will have mercy on them (Jeremiah 51:5). Their land is full of guilt, the LORD sees this very well, yet He will not put an end to that people precisely because He is “the Holy One of Israel”. Isaiah uses this Name for the LORD 25 times. Jeremiah uses that Name here for the second and last time (Jeremiah 50:29), both times in connection with the judgment on Babylon. Therefore, He calls His people to flee from Babylon and not be destroyed together with her in her punishment (Jeremiah 51:6; Jeremiah 50:8). Babylon will receive from the LORD the judgment it deserves and the time for that is now.

Babylon was used by the LORD as a golden cup, a cup containing the wine of the wrath of God (Jeremiah 51:7). Nebuchadnezzar is the golden head (Daniel 2:38), to whom the LORD has given authority over all the nations. He executed God’s judgment on the nations. Every nation has trembled before him. But his power has come to a sudden end (Jeremiah 51:8). He has famously relied on his own power and has no regard for the LORD.

Attempts have been made, however, to heal Babylon again, to cure her. Indeed, Babylon has also brought many benefits. It has been a good land to live in. The fact that one was no longer free did not play a major role. However, the attempts to heal Babylon have proven to be in vain (Jeremiah 51:9). Therefore, everyone is telling each other to take the opportunity and return to their own land. It is pointless to stay there any longer because the situation is worsening instead of improving.

Israel will become aware that the LORD has stood up for them (Jeremiah 51:10). They are aware of how the LORD sees them according to His counsel. They also tell one another to go to their land. They do so with the intention of telling in Zion the deeds of the LORD their God. Herein lies the lesson for us that when the Lord has delivered us from a distressing situation, it is good to tell of it in the place where He dwells, the local church.

The LORD calls His instrument to sharpen the arrows and fill the quivers (Jeremiah 51:11). He is stirring up the spirit of the kings of the Medes against Babylon. This is in keeping with His plan to destroy Babylon. Babylon has destroyed His temple and for that it has brought upon itself the vengeance of the LORD. It will know against Whom it has rebelled.

The LORD begins by lifting up a signal, indicating that victory has been won even before the war has begun (Jeremiah 51:12). Before the battle itself, He gives orders to strengthen the guard, station sentries, and place men in ambush. The certainty of victory does not make one overconfident. In this way, He will also carry out His purpose that He has spoken.

Babylon dwells by many waters (Jeremiah 51:13), that is, it rules over many nations (Revelation 17:15). Babylon is also rich. She obtained this wealth through unbridled greed. However, her power and wealth are worthless as protection from God’s judgment. Babylon owes it to the LORD of hosts to have become as numerous as a swarm of migrating locusts, but she has given all the glory for it to herself. Therefore the LORD of hosts has sworn by Himself that He will judge her (Jeremiah 51:14). This will cause a shout of joy among the oppressed peoples.

Ezekiel 23:36

The Vengeance of the LORD on Babylon

This chapter continues the description of the judgment on Babylon that began in the previous chapter. The LORD uses every possible example and word to let us know how much He is wroth with Babylon and what He will do to her. Now He speaks of a spirit that He will stir up, a spirit that will destroy (Jeremiah 51:1). That spirit will come “against Babylon and against the inhabitants of Leb-kamai”. “Leb-kamai” is Hebrew for “heart of those who rise up against Me”. He will give in Babylon an evil spirit that will plunge her into destruction.

There will be foreigners who will winnow Babylon, enemies who will take away all that is precious from the land, leaving what is worthless (Jeremiah 51:2). Winnowing is also connected to the spirit (or wind, it is the same word) of Jeremiah 51:1. Winnowing is done by the wind. The wind then does take the worthless and scatters it, while what is precious is left behind. The enemy will scatter the people as worthless and appropriate the treasures.

Although the Babylonians are ready with bow and armor to defend themselves, all opposition will be ruthlessly struck down (Jeremiah 51:3). The young men are not spared, and all the army of Babylon is struck down. Dead bodies lie all over the land and in the streets of the cities (Jeremiah 51:4).

The LORD is also wroth with Israel and Judah, but He will have mercy on them (Jeremiah 51:5). Their land is full of guilt, the LORD sees this very well, yet He will not put an end to that people precisely because He is “the Holy One of Israel”. Isaiah uses this Name for the LORD 25 times. Jeremiah uses that Name here for the second and last time (Jeremiah 50:29), both times in connection with the judgment on Babylon. Therefore, He calls His people to flee from Babylon and not be destroyed together with her in her punishment (Jeremiah 51:6; Jeremiah 50:8). Babylon will receive from the LORD the judgment it deserves and the time for that is now.

Babylon was used by the LORD as a golden cup, a cup containing the wine of the wrath of God (Jeremiah 51:7). Nebuchadnezzar is the golden head (Daniel 2:38), to whom the LORD has given authority over all the nations. He executed God’s judgment on the nations. Every nation has trembled before him. But his power has come to a sudden end (Jeremiah 51:8). He has famously relied on his own power and has no regard for the LORD.

Attempts have been made, however, to heal Babylon again, to cure her. Indeed, Babylon has also brought many benefits. It has been a good land to live in. The fact that one was no longer free did not play a major role. However, the attempts to heal Babylon have proven to be in vain (Jeremiah 51:9). Therefore, everyone is telling each other to take the opportunity and return to their own land. It is pointless to stay there any longer because the situation is worsening instead of improving.

Israel will become aware that the LORD has stood up for them (Jeremiah 51:10). They are aware of how the LORD sees them according to His counsel. They also tell one another to go to their land. They do so with the intention of telling in Zion the deeds of the LORD their God. Herein lies the lesson for us that when the Lord has delivered us from a distressing situation, it is good to tell of it in the place where He dwells, the local church.

The LORD calls His instrument to sharpen the arrows and fill the quivers (Jeremiah 51:11). He is stirring up the spirit of the kings of the Medes against Babylon. This is in keeping with His plan to destroy Babylon. Babylon has destroyed His temple and for that it has brought upon itself the vengeance of the LORD. It will know against Whom it has rebelled.

The LORD begins by lifting up a signal, indicating that victory has been won even before the war has begun (Jeremiah 51:12). Before the battle itself, He gives orders to strengthen the guard, station sentries, and place men in ambush. The certainty of victory does not make one overconfident. In this way, He will also carry out His purpose that He has spoken.

Babylon dwells by many waters (Jeremiah 51:13), that is, it rules over many nations (Revelation 17:15). Babylon is also rich. She obtained this wealth through unbridled greed. However, her power and wealth are worthless as protection from God’s judgment. Babylon owes it to the LORD of hosts to have become as numerous as a swarm of migrating locusts, but she has given all the glory for it to herself. Therefore the LORD of hosts has sworn by Himself that He will judge her (Jeremiah 51:14). This will cause a shout of joy among the oppressed peoples.

Ezekiel 23:37

The Vengeance of the LORD on Babylon

This chapter continues the description of the judgment on Babylon that began in the previous chapter. The LORD uses every possible example and word to let us know how much He is wroth with Babylon and what He will do to her. Now He speaks of a spirit that He will stir up, a spirit that will destroy (Jeremiah 51:1). That spirit will come “against Babylon and against the inhabitants of Leb-kamai”. “Leb-kamai” is Hebrew for “heart of those who rise up against Me”. He will give in Babylon an evil spirit that will plunge her into destruction.

There will be foreigners who will winnow Babylon, enemies who will take away all that is precious from the land, leaving what is worthless (Jeremiah 51:2). Winnowing is also connected to the spirit (or wind, it is the same word) of Jeremiah 51:1. Winnowing is done by the wind. The wind then does take the worthless and scatters it, while what is precious is left behind. The enemy will scatter the people as worthless and appropriate the treasures.

Although the Babylonians are ready with bow and armor to defend themselves, all opposition will be ruthlessly struck down (Jeremiah 51:3). The young men are not spared, and all the army of Babylon is struck down. Dead bodies lie all over the land and in the streets of the cities (Jeremiah 51:4).

The LORD is also wroth with Israel and Judah, but He will have mercy on them (Jeremiah 51:5). Their land is full of guilt, the LORD sees this very well, yet He will not put an end to that people precisely because He is “the Holy One of Israel”. Isaiah uses this Name for the LORD 25 times. Jeremiah uses that Name here for the second and last time (Jeremiah 50:29), both times in connection with the judgment on Babylon. Therefore, He calls His people to flee from Babylon and not be destroyed together with her in her punishment (Jeremiah 51:6; Jeremiah 50:8). Babylon will receive from the LORD the judgment it deserves and the time for that is now.

Babylon was used by the LORD as a golden cup, a cup containing the wine of the wrath of God (Jeremiah 51:7). Nebuchadnezzar is the golden head (Daniel 2:38), to whom the LORD has given authority over all the nations. He executed God’s judgment on the nations. Every nation has trembled before him. But his power has come to a sudden end (Jeremiah 51:8). He has famously relied on his own power and has no regard for the LORD.

Attempts have been made, however, to heal Babylon again, to cure her. Indeed, Babylon has also brought many benefits. It has been a good land to live in. The fact that one was no longer free did not play a major role. However, the attempts to heal Babylon have proven to be in vain (Jeremiah 51:9). Therefore, everyone is telling each other to take the opportunity and return to their own land. It is pointless to stay there any longer because the situation is worsening instead of improving.

Israel will become aware that the LORD has stood up for them (Jeremiah 51:10). They are aware of how the LORD sees them according to His counsel. They also tell one another to go to their land. They do so with the intention of telling in Zion the deeds of the LORD their God. Herein lies the lesson for us that when the Lord has delivered us from a distressing situation, it is good to tell of it in the place where He dwells, the local church.

The LORD calls His instrument to sharpen the arrows and fill the quivers (Jeremiah 51:11). He is stirring up the spirit of the kings of the Medes against Babylon. This is in keeping with His plan to destroy Babylon. Babylon has destroyed His temple and for that it has brought upon itself the vengeance of the LORD. It will know against Whom it has rebelled.

The LORD begins by lifting up a signal, indicating that victory has been won even before the war has begun (Jeremiah 51:12). Before the battle itself, He gives orders to strengthen the guard, station sentries, and place men in ambush. The certainty of victory does not make one overconfident. In this way, He will also carry out His purpose that He has spoken.

Babylon dwells by many waters (Jeremiah 51:13), that is, it rules over many nations (Revelation 17:15). Babylon is also rich. She obtained this wealth through unbridled greed. However, her power and wealth are worthless as protection from God’s judgment. Babylon owes it to the LORD of hosts to have become as numerous as a swarm of migrating locusts, but she has given all the glory for it to herself. Therefore the LORD of hosts has sworn by Himself that He will judge her (Jeremiah 51:14). This will cause a shout of joy among the oppressed peoples.

Ezekiel 23:38

The Vengeance of the LORD on Babylon

This chapter continues the description of the judgment on Babylon that began in the previous chapter. The LORD uses every possible example and word to let us know how much He is wroth with Babylon and what He will do to her. Now He speaks of a spirit that He will stir up, a spirit that will destroy (Jeremiah 51:1). That spirit will come “against Babylon and against the inhabitants of Leb-kamai”. “Leb-kamai” is Hebrew for “heart of those who rise up against Me”. He will give in Babylon an evil spirit that will plunge her into destruction.

There will be foreigners who will winnow Babylon, enemies who will take away all that is precious from the land, leaving what is worthless (Jeremiah 51:2). Winnowing is also connected to the spirit (or wind, it is the same word) of Jeremiah 51:1. Winnowing is done by the wind. The wind then does take the worthless and scatters it, while what is precious is left behind. The enemy will scatter the people as worthless and appropriate the treasures.

Although the Babylonians are ready with bow and armor to defend themselves, all opposition will be ruthlessly struck down (Jeremiah 51:3). The young men are not spared, and all the army of Babylon is struck down. Dead bodies lie all over the land and in the streets of the cities (Jeremiah 51:4).

The LORD is also wroth with Israel and Judah, but He will have mercy on them (Jeremiah 51:5). Their land is full of guilt, the LORD sees this very well, yet He will not put an end to that people precisely because He is “the Holy One of Israel”. Isaiah uses this Name for the LORD 25 times. Jeremiah uses that Name here for the second and last time (Jeremiah 50:29), both times in connection with the judgment on Babylon. Therefore, He calls His people to flee from Babylon and not be destroyed together with her in her punishment (Jeremiah 51:6; Jeremiah 50:8). Babylon will receive from the LORD the judgment it deserves and the time for that is now.

Babylon was used by the LORD as a golden cup, a cup containing the wine of the wrath of God (Jeremiah 51:7). Nebuchadnezzar is the golden head (Daniel 2:38), to whom the LORD has given authority over all the nations. He executed God’s judgment on the nations. Every nation has trembled before him. But his power has come to a sudden end (Jeremiah 51:8). He has famously relied on his own power and has no regard for the LORD.

Attempts have been made, however, to heal Babylon again, to cure her. Indeed, Babylon has also brought many benefits. It has been a good land to live in. The fact that one was no longer free did not play a major role. However, the attempts to heal Babylon have proven to be in vain (Jeremiah 51:9). Therefore, everyone is telling each other to take the opportunity and return to their own land. It is pointless to stay there any longer because the situation is worsening instead of improving.

Israel will become aware that the LORD has stood up for them (Jeremiah 51:10). They are aware of how the LORD sees them according to His counsel. They also tell one another to go to their land. They do so with the intention of telling in Zion the deeds of the LORD their God. Herein lies the lesson for us that when the Lord has delivered us from a distressing situation, it is good to tell of it in the place where He dwells, the local church.

The LORD calls His instrument to sharpen the arrows and fill the quivers (Jeremiah 51:11). He is stirring up the spirit of the kings of the Medes against Babylon. This is in keeping with His plan to destroy Babylon. Babylon has destroyed His temple and for that it has brought upon itself the vengeance of the LORD. It will know against Whom it has rebelled.

The LORD begins by lifting up a signal, indicating that victory has been won even before the war has begun (Jeremiah 51:12). Before the battle itself, He gives orders to strengthen the guard, station sentries, and place men in ambush. The certainty of victory does not make one overconfident. In this way, He will also carry out His purpose that He has spoken.

Babylon dwells by many waters (Jeremiah 51:13), that is, it rules over many nations (Revelation 17:15). Babylon is also rich. She obtained this wealth through unbridled greed. However, her power and wealth are worthless as protection from God’s judgment. Babylon owes it to the LORD of hosts to have become as numerous as a swarm of migrating locusts, but she has given all the glory for it to herself. Therefore the LORD of hosts has sworn by Himself that He will judge her (Jeremiah 51:14). This will cause a shout of joy among the oppressed peoples.

Ezekiel 23:39

The Vengeance of the LORD on Babylon

This chapter continues the description of the judgment on Babylon that began in the previous chapter. The LORD uses every possible example and word to let us know how much He is wroth with Babylon and what He will do to her. Now He speaks of a spirit that He will stir up, a spirit that will destroy (Jeremiah 51:1). That spirit will come “against Babylon and against the inhabitants of Leb-kamai”. “Leb-kamai” is Hebrew for “heart of those who rise up against Me”. He will give in Babylon an evil spirit that will plunge her into destruction.

There will be foreigners who will winnow Babylon, enemies who will take away all that is precious from the land, leaving what is worthless (Jeremiah 51:2). Winnowing is also connected to the spirit (or wind, it is the same word) of Jeremiah 51:1. Winnowing is done by the wind. The wind then does take the worthless and scatters it, while what is precious is left behind. The enemy will scatter the people as worthless and appropriate the treasures.

Although the Babylonians are ready with bow and armor to defend themselves, all opposition will be ruthlessly struck down (Jeremiah 51:3). The young men are not spared, and all the army of Babylon is struck down. Dead bodies lie all over the land and in the streets of the cities (Jeremiah 51:4).

The LORD is also wroth with Israel and Judah, but He will have mercy on them (Jeremiah 51:5). Their land is full of guilt, the LORD sees this very well, yet He will not put an end to that people precisely because He is “the Holy One of Israel”. Isaiah uses this Name for the LORD 25 times. Jeremiah uses that Name here for the second and last time (Jeremiah 50:29), both times in connection with the judgment on Babylon. Therefore, He calls His people to flee from Babylon and not be destroyed together with her in her punishment (Jeremiah 51:6; Jeremiah 50:8). Babylon will receive from the LORD the judgment it deserves and the time for that is now.

Babylon was used by the LORD as a golden cup, a cup containing the wine of the wrath of God (Jeremiah 51:7). Nebuchadnezzar is the golden head (Daniel 2:38), to whom the LORD has given authority over all the nations. He executed God’s judgment on the nations. Every nation has trembled before him. But his power has come to a sudden end (Jeremiah 51:8). He has famously relied on his own power and has no regard for the LORD.

Attempts have been made, however, to heal Babylon again, to cure her. Indeed, Babylon has also brought many benefits. It has been a good land to live in. The fact that one was no longer free did not play a major role. However, the attempts to heal Babylon have proven to be in vain (Jeremiah 51:9). Therefore, everyone is telling each other to take the opportunity and return to their own land. It is pointless to stay there any longer because the situation is worsening instead of improving.

Israel will become aware that the LORD has stood up for them (Jeremiah 51:10). They are aware of how the LORD sees them according to His counsel. They also tell one another to go to their land. They do so with the intention of telling in Zion the deeds of the LORD their God. Herein lies the lesson for us that when the Lord has delivered us from a distressing situation, it is good to tell of it in the place where He dwells, the local church.

The LORD calls His instrument to sharpen the arrows and fill the quivers (Jeremiah 51:11). He is stirring up the spirit of the kings of the Medes against Babylon. This is in keeping with His plan to destroy Babylon. Babylon has destroyed His temple and for that it has brought upon itself the vengeance of the LORD. It will know against Whom it has rebelled.

The LORD begins by lifting up a signal, indicating that victory has been won even before the war has begun (Jeremiah 51:12). Before the battle itself, He gives orders to strengthen the guard, station sentries, and place men in ambush. The certainty of victory does not make one overconfident. In this way, He will also carry out His purpose that He has spoken.

Babylon dwells by many waters (Jeremiah 51:13), that is, it rules over many nations (Revelation 17:15). Babylon is also rich. She obtained this wealth through unbridled greed. However, her power and wealth are worthless as protection from God’s judgment. Babylon owes it to the LORD of hosts to have become as numerous as a swarm of migrating locusts, but she has given all the glory for it to herself. Therefore the LORD of hosts has sworn by Himself that He will judge her (Jeremiah 51:14). This will cause a shout of joy among the oppressed peoples.

Ezekiel 23:40

The Vengeance of the LORD on Babylon

This chapter continues the description of the judgment on Babylon that began in the previous chapter. The LORD uses every possible example and word to let us know how much He is wroth with Babylon and what He will do to her. Now He speaks of a spirit that He will stir up, a spirit that will destroy (Jeremiah 51:1). That spirit will come “against Babylon and against the inhabitants of Leb-kamai”. “Leb-kamai” is Hebrew for “heart of those who rise up against Me”. He will give in Babylon an evil spirit that will plunge her into destruction.

There will be foreigners who will winnow Babylon, enemies who will take away all that is precious from the land, leaving what is worthless (Jeremiah 51:2). Winnowing is also connected to the spirit (or wind, it is the same word) of Jeremiah 51:1. Winnowing is done by the wind. The wind then does take the worthless and scatters it, while what is precious is left behind. The enemy will scatter the people as worthless and appropriate the treasures.

Although the Babylonians are ready with bow and armor to defend themselves, all opposition will be ruthlessly struck down (Jeremiah 51:3). The young men are not spared, and all the army of Babylon is struck down. Dead bodies lie all over the land and in the streets of the cities (Jeremiah 51:4).

The LORD is also wroth with Israel and Judah, but He will have mercy on them (Jeremiah 51:5). Their land is full of guilt, the LORD sees this very well, yet He will not put an end to that people precisely because He is “the Holy One of Israel”. Isaiah uses this Name for the LORD 25 times. Jeremiah uses that Name here for the second and last time (Jeremiah 50:29), both times in connection with the judgment on Babylon. Therefore, He calls His people to flee from Babylon and not be destroyed together with her in her punishment (Jeremiah 51:6; Jeremiah 50:8). Babylon will receive from the LORD the judgment it deserves and the time for that is now.

Babylon was used by the LORD as a golden cup, a cup containing the wine of the wrath of God (Jeremiah 51:7). Nebuchadnezzar is the golden head (Daniel 2:38), to whom the LORD has given authority over all the nations. He executed God’s judgment on the nations. Every nation has trembled before him. But his power has come to a sudden end (Jeremiah 51:8). He has famously relied on his own power and has no regard for the LORD.

Attempts have been made, however, to heal Babylon again, to cure her. Indeed, Babylon has also brought many benefits. It has been a good land to live in. The fact that one was no longer free did not play a major role. However, the attempts to heal Babylon have proven to be in vain (Jeremiah 51:9). Therefore, everyone is telling each other to take the opportunity and return to their own land. It is pointless to stay there any longer because the situation is worsening instead of improving.

Israel will become aware that the LORD has stood up for them (Jeremiah 51:10). They are aware of how the LORD sees them according to His counsel. They also tell one another to go to their land. They do so with the intention of telling in Zion the deeds of the LORD their God. Herein lies the lesson for us that when the Lord has delivered us from a distressing situation, it is good to tell of it in the place where He dwells, the local church.

The LORD calls His instrument to sharpen the arrows and fill the quivers (Jeremiah 51:11). He is stirring up the spirit of the kings of the Medes against Babylon. This is in keeping with His plan to destroy Babylon. Babylon has destroyed His temple and for that it has brought upon itself the vengeance of the LORD. It will know against Whom it has rebelled.

The LORD begins by lifting up a signal, indicating that victory has been won even before the war has begun (Jeremiah 51:12). Before the battle itself, He gives orders to strengthen the guard, station sentries, and place men in ambush. The certainty of victory does not make one overconfident. In this way, He will also carry out His purpose that He has spoken.

Babylon dwells by many waters (Jeremiah 51:13), that is, it rules over many nations (Revelation 17:15). Babylon is also rich. She obtained this wealth through unbridled greed. However, her power and wealth are worthless as protection from God’s judgment. Babylon owes it to the LORD of hosts to have become as numerous as a swarm of migrating locusts, but she has given all the glory for it to herself. Therefore the LORD of hosts has sworn by Himself that He will judge her (Jeremiah 51:14). This will cause a shout of joy among the oppressed peoples.

Ezekiel 23:41

The Vengeance of the LORD on Babylon

This chapter continues the description of the judgment on Babylon that began in the previous chapter. The LORD uses every possible example and word to let us know how much He is wroth with Babylon and what He will do to her. Now He speaks of a spirit that He will stir up, a spirit that will destroy (Jeremiah 51:1). That spirit will come “against Babylon and against the inhabitants of Leb-kamai”. “Leb-kamai” is Hebrew for “heart of those who rise up against Me”. He will give in Babylon an evil spirit that will plunge her into destruction.

There will be foreigners who will winnow Babylon, enemies who will take away all that is precious from the land, leaving what is worthless (Jeremiah 51:2). Winnowing is also connected to the spirit (or wind, it is the same word) of Jeremiah 51:1. Winnowing is done by the wind. The wind then does take the worthless and scatters it, while what is precious is left behind. The enemy will scatter the people as worthless and appropriate the treasures.

Although the Babylonians are ready with bow and armor to defend themselves, all opposition will be ruthlessly struck down (Jeremiah 51:3). The young men are not spared, and all the army of Babylon is struck down. Dead bodies lie all over the land and in the streets of the cities (Jeremiah 51:4).

The LORD is also wroth with Israel and Judah, but He will have mercy on them (Jeremiah 51:5). Their land is full of guilt, the LORD sees this very well, yet He will not put an end to that people precisely because He is “the Holy One of Israel”. Isaiah uses this Name for the LORD 25 times. Jeremiah uses that Name here for the second and last time (Jeremiah 50:29), both times in connection with the judgment on Babylon. Therefore, He calls His people to flee from Babylon and not be destroyed together with her in her punishment (Jeremiah 51:6; Jeremiah 50:8). Babylon will receive from the LORD the judgment it deserves and the time for that is now.

Babylon was used by the LORD as a golden cup, a cup containing the wine of the wrath of God (Jeremiah 51:7). Nebuchadnezzar is the golden head (Daniel 2:38), to whom the LORD has given authority over all the nations. He executed God’s judgment on the nations. Every nation has trembled before him. But his power has come to a sudden end (Jeremiah 51:8). He has famously relied on his own power and has no regard for the LORD.

Attempts have been made, however, to heal Babylon again, to cure her. Indeed, Babylon has also brought many benefits. It has been a good land to live in. The fact that one was no longer free did not play a major role. However, the attempts to heal Babylon have proven to be in vain (Jeremiah 51:9). Therefore, everyone is telling each other to take the opportunity and return to their own land. It is pointless to stay there any longer because the situation is worsening instead of improving.

Israel will become aware that the LORD has stood up for them (Jeremiah 51:10). They are aware of how the LORD sees them according to His counsel. They also tell one another to go to their land. They do so with the intention of telling in Zion the deeds of the LORD their God. Herein lies the lesson for us that when the Lord has delivered us from a distressing situation, it is good to tell of it in the place where He dwells, the local church.

The LORD calls His instrument to sharpen the arrows and fill the quivers (Jeremiah 51:11). He is stirring up the spirit of the kings of the Medes against Babylon. This is in keeping with His plan to destroy Babylon. Babylon has destroyed His temple and for that it has brought upon itself the vengeance of the LORD. It will know against Whom it has rebelled.

The LORD begins by lifting up a signal, indicating that victory has been won even before the war has begun (Jeremiah 51:12). Before the battle itself, He gives orders to strengthen the guard, station sentries, and place men in ambush. The certainty of victory does not make one overconfident. In this way, He will also carry out His purpose that He has spoken.

Babylon dwells by many waters (Jeremiah 51:13), that is, it rules over many nations (Revelation 17:15). Babylon is also rich. She obtained this wealth through unbridled greed. However, her power and wealth are worthless as protection from God’s judgment. Babylon owes it to the LORD of hosts to have become as numerous as a swarm of migrating locusts, but she has given all the glory for it to herself. Therefore the LORD of hosts has sworn by Himself that He will judge her (Jeremiah 51:14). This will cause a shout of joy among the oppressed peoples.

Ezekiel 23:42

The Almighty LORD and the Impotent Idols

The LORD places Himself in His omnipotence as Creator before Babylon (Jeremiah 51:15). He brought about the creation by “His power” while working with “His wisdom” and “His understanding” in the process. All of nature responds to His voice (Jeremiah 51:16). Clouds, lightning, wind, He disposes of them. This is also how the LORD once placed Himself opposite Job, after which Job humbled himself deeply (Job 40:1-5; Job 42:1-6).

Babylon, however, has no attention for this almighty God. Babylon is a stupid man, without knowledge of God and therefore completely without knowledge (Jeremiah 51:17). A goldsmith is also a kind of creator, but of an idol. But what a deception, it is a dead thing. There is no breath or spirit in it. A goldsmith can only make something that is dead. Compared with Who God is, the silversmith’s work is worthless and a work of mockery (Jeremiah 51:18) that offers no protection in the day of retributive judgment.

How completely different is “the portion of Jacob”, which is the living LORD (Jeremiah 51:19). He is the Former of all things and in the midst of it He has a special relationship with Israel who is His inheritance. He is the LORD of hosts, which is His Name. He is above all heavenly and earthly powers and no one is equal to Him.

Babylon is to the LORD a war-club, a weapon of war (Jeremiah 51:20). Babylon must not imagine to be someone of importance and to have power of her own. Every work of Babylon is a work of the LORD. The LORD will smite nations and destroy kingdoms through Babylon. Everything that falls under the hammer of Babylon is an object of the LORD’s judgment.

The hammer of the LORD comes down on “the horse and his rider” and on “the chariot and its rider” (Jeremiah 51:21); on “man and woman”, on “old man and youth” and on “young man and virgin” (Jeremiah 51:22); on “the shepherd and his flock”, on “the farmer and his team”, on “governors and prefects” (Jeremiah 51:23). The word for “shatter” has the meaning of powerful and intense smashing, it is crushingly smashing (Exodus 15:6; Psalms 2:9).

Babylon is an instrument in the hand of the LORD. This does not mean that the Babylonians do not have their own responsibility. For they have done evil to Zion without the LORD’s instruction (Jeremiah 51:24). The LORD cannot leave that unpunished, but will repay them.

The mighty mountain of Babylon that is destroying the whole earth will be judged by the LORD (Jeremiah 51:25). He will stretch out His hand against her so that she will roll off her high rock. He will set her on fire with His fire, so that she will become a mountain on fire. The destruction will be so radical that nothing useful will remain that could serve as a foundation for rebuilding the city (Jeremiah 51:26).

Ezekiel 23:43

The Almighty LORD and the Impotent Idols

The LORD places Himself in His omnipotence as Creator before Babylon (Jeremiah 51:15). He brought about the creation by “His power” while working with “His wisdom” and “His understanding” in the process. All of nature responds to His voice (Jeremiah 51:16). Clouds, lightning, wind, He disposes of them. This is also how the LORD once placed Himself opposite Job, after which Job humbled himself deeply (Job 40:1-5; Job 42:1-6).

Babylon, however, has no attention for this almighty God. Babylon is a stupid man, without knowledge of God and therefore completely without knowledge (Jeremiah 51:17). A goldsmith is also a kind of creator, but of an idol. But what a deception, it is a dead thing. There is no breath or spirit in it. A goldsmith can only make something that is dead. Compared with Who God is, the silversmith’s work is worthless and a work of mockery (Jeremiah 51:18) that offers no protection in the day of retributive judgment.

How completely different is “the portion of Jacob”, which is the living LORD (Jeremiah 51:19). He is the Former of all things and in the midst of it He has a special relationship with Israel who is His inheritance. He is the LORD of hosts, which is His Name. He is above all heavenly and earthly powers and no one is equal to Him.

Babylon is to the LORD a war-club, a weapon of war (Jeremiah 51:20). Babylon must not imagine to be someone of importance and to have power of her own. Every work of Babylon is a work of the LORD. The LORD will smite nations and destroy kingdoms through Babylon. Everything that falls under the hammer of Babylon is an object of the LORD’s judgment.

The hammer of the LORD comes down on “the horse and his rider” and on “the chariot and its rider” (Jeremiah 51:21); on “man and woman”, on “old man and youth” and on “young man and virgin” (Jeremiah 51:22); on “the shepherd and his flock”, on “the farmer and his team”, on “governors and prefects” (Jeremiah 51:23). The word for “shatter” has the meaning of powerful and intense smashing, it is crushingly smashing (Exodus 15:6; Psalms 2:9).

Babylon is an instrument in the hand of the LORD. This does not mean that the Babylonians do not have their own responsibility. For they have done evil to Zion without the LORD’s instruction (Jeremiah 51:24). The LORD cannot leave that unpunished, but will repay them.

The mighty mountain of Babylon that is destroying the whole earth will be judged by the LORD (Jeremiah 51:25). He will stretch out His hand against her so that she will roll off her high rock. He will set her on fire with His fire, so that she will become a mountain on fire. The destruction will be so radical that nothing useful will remain that could serve as a foundation for rebuilding the city (Jeremiah 51:26).

Ezekiel 23:44

The Almighty LORD and the Impotent Idols

The LORD places Himself in His omnipotence as Creator before Babylon (Jeremiah 51:15). He brought about the creation by “His power” while working with “His wisdom” and “His understanding” in the process. All of nature responds to His voice (Jeremiah 51:16). Clouds, lightning, wind, He disposes of them. This is also how the LORD once placed Himself opposite Job, after which Job humbled himself deeply (Job 40:1-5; Job 42:1-6).

Babylon, however, has no attention for this almighty God. Babylon is a stupid man, without knowledge of God and therefore completely without knowledge (Jeremiah 51:17). A goldsmith is also a kind of creator, but of an idol. But what a deception, it is a dead thing. There is no breath or spirit in it. A goldsmith can only make something that is dead. Compared with Who God is, the silversmith’s work is worthless and a work of mockery (Jeremiah 51:18) that offers no protection in the day of retributive judgment.

How completely different is “the portion of Jacob”, which is the living LORD (Jeremiah 51:19). He is the Former of all things and in the midst of it He has a special relationship with Israel who is His inheritance. He is the LORD of hosts, which is His Name. He is above all heavenly and earthly powers and no one is equal to Him.

Babylon is to the LORD a war-club, a weapon of war (Jeremiah 51:20). Babylon must not imagine to be someone of importance and to have power of her own. Every work of Babylon is a work of the LORD. The LORD will smite nations and destroy kingdoms through Babylon. Everything that falls under the hammer of Babylon is an object of the LORD’s judgment.

The hammer of the LORD comes down on “the horse and his rider” and on “the chariot and its rider” (Jeremiah 51:21); on “man and woman”, on “old man and youth” and on “young man and virgin” (Jeremiah 51:22); on “the shepherd and his flock”, on “the farmer and his team”, on “governors and prefects” (Jeremiah 51:23). The word for “shatter” has the meaning of powerful and intense smashing, it is crushingly smashing (Exodus 15:6; Psalms 2:9).

Babylon is an instrument in the hand of the LORD. This does not mean that the Babylonians do not have their own responsibility. For they have done evil to Zion without the LORD’s instruction (Jeremiah 51:24). The LORD cannot leave that unpunished, but will repay them.

The mighty mountain of Babylon that is destroying the whole earth will be judged by the LORD (Jeremiah 51:25). He will stretch out His hand against her so that she will roll off her high rock. He will set her on fire with His fire, so that she will become a mountain on fire. The destruction will be so radical that nothing useful will remain that could serve as a foundation for rebuilding the city (Jeremiah 51:26).

Ezekiel 23:45

The Almighty LORD and the Impotent Idols

The LORD places Himself in His omnipotence as Creator before Babylon (Jeremiah 51:15). He brought about the creation by “His power” while working with “His wisdom” and “His understanding” in the process. All of nature responds to His voice (Jeremiah 51:16). Clouds, lightning, wind, He disposes of them. This is also how the LORD once placed Himself opposite Job, after which Job humbled himself deeply (Job 40:1-5; Job 42:1-6).

Babylon, however, has no attention for this almighty God. Babylon is a stupid man, without knowledge of God and therefore completely without knowledge (Jeremiah 51:17). A goldsmith is also a kind of creator, but of an idol. But what a deception, it is a dead thing. There is no breath or spirit in it. A goldsmith can only make something that is dead. Compared with Who God is, the silversmith’s work is worthless and a work of mockery (Jeremiah 51:18) that offers no protection in the day of retributive judgment.

How completely different is “the portion of Jacob”, which is the living LORD (Jeremiah 51:19). He is the Former of all things and in the midst of it He has a special relationship with Israel who is His inheritance. He is the LORD of hosts, which is His Name. He is above all heavenly and earthly powers and no one is equal to Him.

Babylon is to the LORD a war-club, a weapon of war (Jeremiah 51:20). Babylon must not imagine to be someone of importance and to have power of her own. Every work of Babylon is a work of the LORD. The LORD will smite nations and destroy kingdoms through Babylon. Everything that falls under the hammer of Babylon is an object of the LORD’s judgment.

The hammer of the LORD comes down on “the horse and his rider” and on “the chariot and its rider” (Jeremiah 51:21); on “man and woman”, on “old man and youth” and on “young man and virgin” (Jeremiah 51:22); on “the shepherd and his flock”, on “the farmer and his team”, on “governors and prefects” (Jeremiah 51:23). The word for “shatter” has the meaning of powerful and intense smashing, it is crushingly smashing (Exodus 15:6; Psalms 2:9).

Babylon is an instrument in the hand of the LORD. This does not mean that the Babylonians do not have their own responsibility. For they have done evil to Zion without the LORD’s instruction (Jeremiah 51:24). The LORD cannot leave that unpunished, but will repay them.

The mighty mountain of Babylon that is destroying the whole earth will be judged by the LORD (Jeremiah 51:25). He will stretch out His hand against her so that she will roll off her high rock. He will set her on fire with His fire, so that she will become a mountain on fire. The destruction will be so radical that nothing useful will remain that could serve as a foundation for rebuilding the city (Jeremiah 51:26).

Ezekiel 23:46

The Almighty LORD and the Impotent Idols

The LORD places Himself in His omnipotence as Creator before Babylon (Jeremiah 51:15). He brought about the creation by “His power” while working with “His wisdom” and “His understanding” in the process. All of nature responds to His voice (Jeremiah 51:16). Clouds, lightning, wind, He disposes of them. This is also how the LORD once placed Himself opposite Job, after which Job humbled himself deeply (Job 40:1-5; Job 42:1-6).

Babylon, however, has no attention for this almighty God. Babylon is a stupid man, without knowledge of God and therefore completely without knowledge (Jeremiah 51:17). A goldsmith is also a kind of creator, but of an idol. But what a deception, it is a dead thing. There is no breath or spirit in it. A goldsmith can only make something that is dead. Compared with Who God is, the silversmith’s work is worthless and a work of mockery (Jeremiah 51:18) that offers no protection in the day of retributive judgment.

How completely different is “the portion of Jacob”, which is the living LORD (Jeremiah 51:19). He is the Former of all things and in the midst of it He has a special relationship with Israel who is His inheritance. He is the LORD of hosts, which is His Name. He is above all heavenly and earthly powers and no one is equal to Him.

Babylon is to the LORD a war-club, a weapon of war (Jeremiah 51:20). Babylon must not imagine to be someone of importance and to have power of her own. Every work of Babylon is a work of the LORD. The LORD will smite nations and destroy kingdoms through Babylon. Everything that falls under the hammer of Babylon is an object of the LORD’s judgment.

The hammer of the LORD comes down on “the horse and his rider” and on “the chariot and its rider” (Jeremiah 51:21); on “man and woman”, on “old man and youth” and on “young man and virgin” (Jeremiah 51:22); on “the shepherd and his flock”, on “the farmer and his team”, on “governors and prefects” (Jeremiah 51:23). The word for “shatter” has the meaning of powerful and intense smashing, it is crushingly smashing (Exodus 15:6; Psalms 2:9).

Babylon is an instrument in the hand of the LORD. This does not mean that the Babylonians do not have their own responsibility. For they have done evil to Zion without the LORD’s instruction (Jeremiah 51:24). The LORD cannot leave that unpunished, but will repay them.

The mighty mountain of Babylon that is destroying the whole earth will be judged by the LORD (Jeremiah 51:25). He will stretch out His hand against her so that she will roll off her high rock. He will set her on fire with His fire, so that she will become a mountain on fire. The destruction will be so radical that nothing useful will remain that could serve as a foundation for rebuilding the city (Jeremiah 51:26).

Ezekiel 23:47

The Almighty LORD and the Impotent Idols

The LORD places Himself in His omnipotence as Creator before Babylon (Jeremiah 51:15). He brought about the creation by “His power” while working with “His wisdom” and “His understanding” in the process. All of nature responds to His voice (Jeremiah 51:16). Clouds, lightning, wind, He disposes of them. This is also how the LORD once placed Himself opposite Job, after which Job humbled himself deeply (Job 40:1-5; Job 42:1-6).

Babylon, however, has no attention for this almighty God. Babylon is a stupid man, without knowledge of God and therefore completely without knowledge (Jeremiah 51:17). A goldsmith is also a kind of creator, but of an idol. But what a deception, it is a dead thing. There is no breath or spirit in it. A goldsmith can only make something that is dead. Compared with Who God is, the silversmith’s work is worthless and a work of mockery (Jeremiah 51:18) that offers no protection in the day of retributive judgment.

How completely different is “the portion of Jacob”, which is the living LORD (Jeremiah 51:19). He is the Former of all things and in the midst of it He has a special relationship with Israel who is His inheritance. He is the LORD of hosts, which is His Name. He is above all heavenly and earthly powers and no one is equal to Him.

Babylon is to the LORD a war-club, a weapon of war (Jeremiah 51:20). Babylon must not imagine to be someone of importance and to have power of her own. Every work of Babylon is a work of the LORD. The LORD will smite nations and destroy kingdoms through Babylon. Everything that falls under the hammer of Babylon is an object of the LORD’s judgment.

The hammer of the LORD comes down on “the horse and his rider” and on “the chariot and its rider” (Jeremiah 51:21); on “man and woman”, on “old man and youth” and on “young man and virgin” (Jeremiah 51:22); on “the shepherd and his flock”, on “the farmer and his team”, on “governors and prefects” (Jeremiah 51:23). The word for “shatter” has the meaning of powerful and intense smashing, it is crushingly smashing (Exodus 15:6; Psalms 2:9).

Babylon is an instrument in the hand of the LORD. This does not mean that the Babylonians do not have their own responsibility. For they have done evil to Zion without the LORD’s instruction (Jeremiah 51:24). The LORD cannot leave that unpunished, but will repay them.

The mighty mountain of Babylon that is destroying the whole earth will be judged by the LORD (Jeremiah 51:25). He will stretch out His hand against her so that she will roll off her high rock. He will set her on fire with His fire, so that she will become a mountain on fire. The destruction will be so radical that nothing useful will remain that could serve as a foundation for rebuilding the city (Jeremiah 51:26).

Ezekiel 23:48

The Almighty LORD and the Impotent Idols

The LORD places Himself in His omnipotence as Creator before Babylon (Jeremiah 51:15). He brought about the creation by “His power” while working with “His wisdom” and “His understanding” in the process. All of nature responds to His voice (Jeremiah 51:16). Clouds, lightning, wind, He disposes of them. This is also how the LORD once placed Himself opposite Job, after which Job humbled himself deeply (Job 40:1-5; Job 42:1-6).

Babylon, however, has no attention for this almighty God. Babylon is a stupid man, without knowledge of God and therefore completely without knowledge (Jeremiah 51:17). A goldsmith is also a kind of creator, but of an idol. But what a deception, it is a dead thing. There is no breath or spirit in it. A goldsmith can only make something that is dead. Compared with Who God is, the silversmith’s work is worthless and a work of mockery (Jeremiah 51:18) that offers no protection in the day of retributive judgment.

How completely different is “the portion of Jacob”, which is the living LORD (Jeremiah 51:19). He is the Former of all things and in the midst of it He has a special relationship with Israel who is His inheritance. He is the LORD of hosts, which is His Name. He is above all heavenly and earthly powers and no one is equal to Him.

Babylon is to the LORD a war-club, a weapon of war (Jeremiah 51:20). Babylon must not imagine to be someone of importance and to have power of her own. Every work of Babylon is a work of the LORD. The LORD will smite nations and destroy kingdoms through Babylon. Everything that falls under the hammer of Babylon is an object of the LORD’s judgment.

The hammer of the LORD comes down on “the horse and his rider” and on “the chariot and its rider” (Jeremiah 51:21); on “man and woman”, on “old man and youth” and on “young man and virgin” (Jeremiah 51:22); on “the shepherd and his flock”, on “the farmer and his team”, on “governors and prefects” (Jeremiah 51:23). The word for “shatter” has the meaning of powerful and intense smashing, it is crushingly smashing (Exodus 15:6; Psalms 2:9).

Babylon is an instrument in the hand of the LORD. This does not mean that the Babylonians do not have their own responsibility. For they have done evil to Zion without the LORD’s instruction (Jeremiah 51:24). The LORD cannot leave that unpunished, but will repay them.

The mighty mountain of Babylon that is destroying the whole earth will be judged by the LORD (Jeremiah 51:25). He will stretch out His hand against her so that she will roll off her high rock. He will set her on fire with His fire, so that she will become a mountain on fire. The destruction will be so radical that nothing useful will remain that could serve as a foundation for rebuilding the city (Jeremiah 51:26).

Ezekiel 23:49

The Almighty LORD and the Impotent Idols

The LORD places Himself in His omnipotence as Creator before Babylon (Jeremiah 51:15). He brought about the creation by “His power” while working with “His wisdom” and “His understanding” in the process. All of nature responds to His voice (Jeremiah 51:16). Clouds, lightning, wind, He disposes of them. This is also how the LORD once placed Himself opposite Job, after which Job humbled himself deeply (Job 40:1-5; Job 42:1-6).

Babylon, however, has no attention for this almighty God. Babylon is a stupid man, without knowledge of God and therefore completely without knowledge (Jeremiah 51:17). A goldsmith is also a kind of creator, but of an idol. But what a deception, it is a dead thing. There is no breath or spirit in it. A goldsmith can only make something that is dead. Compared with Who God is, the silversmith’s work is worthless and a work of mockery (Jeremiah 51:18) that offers no protection in the day of retributive judgment.

How completely different is “the portion of Jacob”, which is the living LORD (Jeremiah 51:19). He is the Former of all things and in the midst of it He has a special relationship with Israel who is His inheritance. He is the LORD of hosts, which is His Name. He is above all heavenly and earthly powers and no one is equal to Him.

Babylon is to the LORD a war-club, a weapon of war (Jeremiah 51:20). Babylon must not imagine to be someone of importance and to have power of her own. Every work of Babylon is a work of the LORD. The LORD will smite nations and destroy kingdoms through Babylon. Everything that falls under the hammer of Babylon is an object of the LORD’s judgment.

The hammer of the LORD comes down on “the horse and his rider” and on “the chariot and its rider” (Jeremiah 51:21); on “man and woman”, on “old man and youth” and on “young man and virgin” (Jeremiah 51:22); on “the shepherd and his flock”, on “the farmer and his team”, on “governors and prefects” (Jeremiah 51:23). The word for “shatter” has the meaning of powerful and intense smashing, it is crushingly smashing (Exodus 15:6; Psalms 2:9).

Babylon is an instrument in the hand of the LORD. This does not mean that the Babylonians do not have their own responsibility. For they have done evil to Zion without the LORD’s instruction (Jeremiah 51:24). The LORD cannot leave that unpunished, but will repay them.

The mighty mountain of Babylon that is destroying the whole earth will be judged by the LORD (Jeremiah 51:25). He will stretch out His hand against her so that she will roll off her high rock. He will set her on fire with His fire, so that she will become a mountain on fire. The destruction will be so radical that nothing useful will remain that could serve as a foundation for rebuilding the city (Jeremiah 51:26).