Jeremiah 46:17

There they will cry out: 'Pharaoh king of Egypt was all noise; he has let the appointed time pass him by.'

Study Bible

There they will cry out
This phrase indicates a public proclamation or lamentation. In the Hebrew context, "cry out" often signifies a loud, communal expression of distress or realization. Historically, this reflects the moment when the truth about Pharaoh's failure becomes undeniable to the people. The setting is likely after a significant defeat, possibly at the hands of the Babylonians, where the Egyptian forces were expected to be strong but were found lacking.

Pharaoh king of Egypt
Pharaoh, the title for the monarchs of ancient Egypt, symbolizes not just a ruler but the embodiment of Egyptian power and divinity. In the biblical narrative, Pharaohs often represent opposition to God's plans, as seen in the Exodus story. Here, the specific Pharaoh is likely Hophra (Apries), who reigned during Jeremiah's time. His reign was marked by political instability and military failures, which aligns with the prophetic critique.

was all noise
This phrase suggests that Pharaoh's reputation and threats were empty, lacking substance or follow-through. The Hebrew word for "noise" can imply tumult or commotion, indicating that Pharaoh's boasts and promises were mere bluster. This critique highlights the futility of relying on human power and pride, contrasting it with the sovereignty and reliability of God.

he has let the appointed time pass him by
The "appointed time" refers to a divinely ordained moment or opportunity. In the Hebrew context, this could be seen as a kairos moment, a critical or opportune time that requires decisive action. Pharaoh's failure to act or respond appropriately to God's timing underscores a theme throughout Scripture: the importance of recognizing and aligning with God's timing and purposes. This serves as a warning against complacency and the consequences of ignoring divine opportunities.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Pharaoh
The ruler of Egypt, often seen as a symbol of earthly power and pride. In this context, Pharaoh represents the futility of relying on human strength and wisdom instead of God.

2. Egypt
A powerful nation in biblical times, often depicted as a place of refuge and temptation for Israel, but also as a symbol of worldly power that stands in opposition to God's plans.

3. Jeremiah
A prophet called by God to deliver messages of warning and hope to the people of Judah and the surrounding nations, including Egypt.

4. The Appointed Time
Refers to God's sovereign timing and plans, which cannot be thwarted by human actions or delays.

5. The Cry
The lament or realization of Egypt's failure, acknowledging that Pharaoh's power was ultimately ineffective against God's purposes.

Teaching Points

The Futility of Human Pride
Pharaoh's failure serves as a reminder that human pride and power are ultimately futile against God's sovereign plans. We must guard against pride and self-reliance in our own lives.

God's Sovereign Timing
The "appointed time" underscores the importance of aligning our lives with God's timing and purposes. We should seek God's guidance and be patient for His timing in our decisions.

The Danger of Misplaced Trust
Just as Egypt was an unreliable ally for Israel, we must be cautious about placing our trust in worldly powers or resources instead of God.

The Call to Repentance
The cry of realization in Egypt can be seen as a call to repentance. We should be quick to recognize our failures and turn back to God.

The Assurance of God's Victory
Despite the noise and chaos of the world, God's plans will prevail. We can find peace and assurance in His ultimate victory.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the portrayal of Pharaoh in Jeremiah 46:17 challenge our understanding of power and leadership today?

2. In what ways can we ensure that we are aligning our lives with God's "appointed time" rather than our own plans?

3. Reflect on a time when you placed your trust in something other than God. What was the outcome, and what did you learn from that experience?

4. How can the account of Pharaoh and Egypt serve as a warning against pride and self-reliance in our personal and spiritual lives?

5. How do the themes in Jeremiah 46:17 connect with the broader biblical account of God's sovereignty and human responsibility?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 14
The account of the Israelites' escape from Egypt, highlighting God's power over Pharaoh and the futility of opposing God's will.

Isaiah 31:1-3
Warns against relying on Egypt for help, emphasizing that true strength and deliverance come from God alone.

Ezekiel 29:3
Describes Pharaoh as a great dragon, symbolizing pride and self-reliance, which God will humble.

Psalm 20:7
Contrasts trust in chariots and horses (symbolizing human power) with trust in the name of the Lord.