Jeremiah 47:5

The people of Gaza will shave their heads in mourning; Ashkelon will be silenced. O remnant of their valley, how long will you gash yourself?

Study Bible

The people of Gaza
The mention of "Gaza" refers to one of the principal cities of the Philistines, a group often in conflict with Israel throughout the Old Testament. Historically, Gaza was a significant city due to its strategic location on the trade routes. The Philistines were known for their advanced iron technology and military prowess. In this context, the "people of Gaza" are facing divine judgment, which is a recurring theme in the prophetic books where God uses nations to fulfill His purposes and then holds them accountable for their actions.

will shave their heads in mourning
Shaving one's head was a common ancient Near Eastern practice to express deep sorrow or mourning. This act symbolizes the complete devastation and humiliation that the people of Gaza will experience. In the Hebrew context, mourning rituals often included tearing clothes, wearing sackcloth, and shaving the head, indicating a profound state of grief and repentance. This phrase underscores the severity of the judgment that is to come upon Gaza, as they are brought low before the sovereignty of God.

Ashkelon will be silenced
Ashkelon, another major Philistine city, is mentioned here alongside Gaza. The phrase "will be silenced" suggests total destruction or cessation of activity. Historically, Ashkelon was a bustling city known for its trade and fortifications. The silencing of Ashkelon indicates the cessation of its influence and the end of its defiance against God. This reflects the biblical theme that no power or city can stand against the will of God, and His judgment is final and complete.

O remnant of their valley
The "remnant" refers to what is left of the Philistine people after the judgment. The "valley" likely refers to the coastal plain where these cities were located, known for its fertility and strategic importance. In biblical literature, a remnant often signifies hope or a future restoration, but here it emphasizes the small number of survivors left after divine judgment. This serves as a reminder of God's mercy even in judgment, preserving a remnant for future purposes.

how long will you gash yourself?
Gashing oneself was a pagan mourning practice, often associated with idolatrous rituals, forbidden in Israelite law (Leviticus 19:28). This rhetorical question highlights the futility of such practices in the face of divine judgment. It serves as a call to recognize the sovereignty of the God of Israel, who alone can save and restore. The question implies that the Philistines' reliance on their gods and rituals is in vain, urging them to turn to the true God for deliverance.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Gaza
A major city of the Philistines, often at odds with Israel. Known for its strategic location and significance in trade and military endeavors.

2. Ashkelon
Another prominent Philistine city, known for its fortifications and cultural influence. It was a center of Philistine power and worship.

3. Philistines
An ancient people, often in conflict with Israel. They inhabited the coastal regions of Canaan and were known for their military prowess.

4. Jeremiah
The prophet who conveyed God's messages to the nations, including judgments and calls for repentance.

5. Remnant of their valley
Refers to the remaining people in the Philistine territories, particularly those who survived previous devastations.

Teaching Points

Understanding Divine Judgment
The imagery of baldness and silence in Gaza and Ashkelon symbolizes the completeness of God's judgment. It serves as a reminder of the consequences of persistent sin and rebellion against God.

Cultural Expressions of Mourning
The act of gashing oneself was a common mourning practice in ancient cultures. This highlights the depth of despair and hopelessness that comes with divine judgment.

The Remnant's Hope
Even in judgment, there is often a remnant. This concept encourages believers to seek God's mercy and remain faithful, trusting in His ultimate plan for restoration.

God's Sovereignty Over Nations
The prophecy against the Philistines underscores God's control over all nations. It reminds us that no power is beyond His reach and that He holds all accountable.

Call to Repentance
The passage serves as a warning to turn from sin and seek God's forgiveness, emphasizing the importance of repentance in avoiding judgment.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the imagery of baldness and silence in Jeremiah 47:5 reflect the severity of God's judgment on the Philistines?

2. In what ways can the concept of a "remnant" provide hope and encouragement to believers today?

3. How do the prophecies against the Philistines in Jeremiah and other books of the Bible demonstrate God's sovereignty over all nations?

4. What cultural practices of mourning are mentioned in the Bible, and how do they help us understand the emotional impact of divine judgment?

5. How can we apply the lessons of repentance and seeking God's mercy from Jeremiah 47:5 to our personal lives and communities?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Isaiah 15:2
Similar imagery of baldness and mourning is used to describe Moab's judgment, highlighting a common cultural expression of grief and loss.

Amos 1:6-8
Amos prophesies against Gaza and other Philistine cities, emphasizing God's judgment on their transgressions.

Zephaniah 2:4-7
This passage also speaks of the desolation of Philistine cities, reinforcing the theme of divine retribution against them.