Jeremiah 46:23

They will chop down her forest, declares the LORD, dense though it may be, for they are more numerous than locusts; they cannot be counted.

Study Bible

They will chop down her forest
This phrase metaphorically represents the destruction of Egypt's power and resources. The "forest" symbolizes the nation's strength and prosperity, akin to a dense and thriving woodland. In the Hebrew context, forests often represented places of refuge and abundance. The act of chopping down signifies a thorough and devastating defeat. Historically, this aligns with the invasions that Egypt faced, particularly from the Babylonians, who were instruments of God's judgment.

declares the LORD
This phrase emphasizes the divine authority and certainty behind the prophecy. The Hebrew word for "declares" (נְאֻם, ne'um) is often used in prophetic literature to assert that the message is directly from God. It reassures the reader that the events foretold are not mere human predictions but are ordained by the sovereign will of God. This underscores the theme of divine justice and the fulfillment of God's word throughout the Scriptures.

though it is dense
The density of the forest signifies the formidable nature of Egypt's defenses and resources. In the ancient Near Eastern context, a dense forest would be difficult to penetrate, symbolizing strength and impenetrability. However, despite this apparent invincibility, the prophecy reveals that no human power can withstand the judgment of God. This serves as a reminder of the futility of relying on worldly strength instead of divine protection.

for they are more numerous than locusts
Locusts in the Bible often symbolize overwhelming and unstoppable destruction, as seen in the plagues of Egypt (Exodus 10:12-15). The comparison here highlights the sheer number and relentless nature of the invading forces. Historically, the Babylonian army was vast and powerful, capable of overwhelming even the most fortified nations. This imagery serves to illustrate the totality of the impending judgment and the futility of resistance against God's decrees.

they cannot be counted
This phrase emphasizes the innumerable nature of the invading forces, reinforcing the idea of an unstoppable and overwhelming judgment. In the Hebrew mindset, the inability to count something signifies its vastness and the impossibility of human control. This reflects the broader biblical theme of God's sovereignty over nations and His ability to use even the mightiest empires to accomplish His purposes. It serves as a sobering reminder of the limits of human power and the ultimate authority of God in the affairs of the world.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Jeremiah
A major prophet in the Old Testament, Jeremiah was called by God to deliver messages of judgment and hope to the people of Judah and the surrounding nations.

2. Egypt
The nation being addressed in this prophecy. Egypt was a powerful and influential kingdom in the ancient Near East, often at odds with Israel and Judah.

3. The LORD
The covenant name of God, Yahweh, who is delivering this message of judgment through the prophet Jeremiah.

4. The Forest
Symbolic of Egypt's strength and resources, which are described as being dense and abundant.

5. Locusts
Representing the invading forces that will be numerous and overwhelming, much like a swarm of locusts that devastates everything in its path.

Teaching Points

God's Sovereignty Over Nations
God's declaration through Jeremiah reminds us that He is sovereign over all nations, including powerful ones like Egypt. No nation is beyond His reach or control.

The Certainty of God's Judgment
The imagery of locusts and a dense forest being cut down underscores the certainty and thoroughness of God's judgment. It serves as a warning to remain faithful and obedient to God.

The Power of God's Word
Just as God's word through Jeremiah came to pass, we can trust that His promises and warnings in Scripture are true and reliable.

The Importance of Repentance
Understanding the inevitability of God's judgment should lead us to repentance and a renewed commitment to live according to His will.

Hope in God's Justice
While the message is one of judgment, it also assures us that God is just and will ultimately bring about His righteous purposes.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the imagery of locusts in Jeremiah 46:23 help us understand the nature of God's judgment on Egypt?

2. In what ways does the prophecy against Egypt in Jeremiah 46:23 reflect God's sovereignty over all nations, and how can this understanding impact our view of current world events?

3. How can the certainty of God's judgment, as depicted in this verse, motivate us to live lives of holiness and obedience?

4. What parallels can we draw between the judgment on Egypt and the plagues during the Exodus, and what do these events teach us about God's power and justice?

5. How can we find hope and assurance in God's justice, even when facing difficult circumstances or witnessing injustice in the world?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Joel 1:4
The imagery of locusts is also used in Joel to describe a devastating invasion, drawing a parallel to the overwhelming nature of God's judgment.

Exodus 10:12-15
The plague of locusts in Egypt during the time of Moses serves as a historical backdrop, emphasizing God's power over nations and His ability to bring judgment.

Isaiah 10:18-19
Similar imagery of a forest being cut down is used to describe the judgment on Assyria, highlighting God's sovereignty over all nations.