Jeremiah 49:21

At the sound of their fall the earth will quake; their cry will resound to the Red Sea.

Study Bible

At the sound of their fall
This phrase signifies a moment of divine judgment and the consequential downfall of a nation. The Hebrew root for "fall" is "נָפַל" (naphal), which often denotes a collapse or defeat. Historically, this can be seen as a prophetic declaration against Edom, a nation that had been a persistent adversary of Israel. The "sound" implies not just a physical collapse but a significant event that reverberates through history, symbolizing the inevitable justice of God against those who oppose His will.

the earth will quake
The imagery of the earth quaking is a powerful metaphor for the magnitude of the event. In Hebrew, "רָעַשׁ" (ra'ash) is used for "quake," which can mean to shake or tremble. This is not merely a physical shaking but a representation of the cosmic impact of God's judgment. It suggests that the fall of Edom is not an isolated incident but one that affects the entire world order, emphasizing the sovereignty of God over all nations.

their cry
The "cry" here is a lamentation, a desperate outcry that arises from the depths of despair. The Hebrew word "צְעָקָה" (tze'akah) is often used in contexts of distress and supplication. This cry is indicative of the realization of Edom's fate and the acknowledgment of their helplessness before the divine decree. It serves as a reminder of the futility of opposing God's plans and the ultimate need for repentance and humility.

will resound
The word "resound" suggests an echoing effect, a sound that travels far and wide. In the context of this verse, it implies that the consequences of Edom's fall will be heard and felt across great distances. This is a testament to the far-reaching impact of God's actions and serves as a warning to other nations. The Hebrew root "שָׁמַע" (shama) means to hear or listen, indicating that this is a message intended for all who have ears to hear.

to the Red Sea
The mention of the "Red Sea" is significant both geographically and theologically. Geographically, it indicates the vast extent of the impact, reaching as far as the Red Sea, which was a well-known landmark in the ancient Near East. Theologically, the Red Sea is a symbol of deliverance and judgment, recalling the Exodus narrative where God delivered Israel from Egypt. This reference serves as a reminder of God's power to save and to judge, reinforcing the theme of divine justice that permeates the book of Jeremiah.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Edom
A nation descended from Esau, Jacob's brother, often at odds with Israel. In this passage, Edom is the subject of God's judgment.

2. Jeremiah
A prophet called by God to deliver messages of warning and hope to the nations, including Edom.

3. The Red Sea
A significant body of water in biblical history, symbolizing deliverance and judgment. Here, it marks the extent of the impact of Edom's fall.

4. The Earthquake
Symbolic of the magnitude of Edom's downfall, indicating a significant and far-reaching event.

5. The Cry
Represents the distress and lamentation of Edom's people as they face God's judgment.

Teaching Points

God's Sovereignty in Judgment
God's judgment is comprehensive and reaches even the most powerful nations. We must recognize His authority over all nations and peoples.

The Consequences of Pride
Edom's downfall serves as a warning against pride and arrogance. We should cultivate humility and dependence on God.

The Far-Reaching Impact of Sin
The imagery of the earth quaking and the cry reaching the Red Sea illustrates how sin and its consequences can affect many. Our actions have broader implications than we might realize.

The Certainty of God's Promises
Just as God fulfilled His promise of judgment against Edom, He will fulfill all His promises, both of judgment and salvation. We can trust in His faithfulness.

The Call to Repentance
Observing Edom's fate should lead us to examine our own lives and turn from sin, seeking God's mercy and grace.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the fall of Edom in Jeremiah 49:21 illustrate the broader theme of God's judgment throughout the Bible?

2. In what ways can pride lead to downfall, both personally and nationally, as seen in the example of Edom?

3. How does the imagery of the earth quaking and the cry reaching the Red Sea help us understand the seriousness of sin's consequences?

4. What lessons can we learn from Edom's judgment about the importance of humility and reliance on God?

5. How can we apply the certainty of God's promises, as demonstrated in His judgment of Edom, to our daily lives and spiritual walk?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Isaiah 34
This chapter also speaks of God's judgment against Edom, emphasizing the theme of divine retribution.

Obadiah 1
The entire book of Obadiah is a prophecy against Edom, highlighting their pride and eventual downfall.

Ezekiel 25
Contains prophecies against Edom, reinforcing the message of judgment due to their actions against Israel.

Psalm 137
Reflects on Edom's role in the destruction of Jerusalem, providing context for their judgment.

Revelation 18
Describes the fall of Babylon, drawing parallels to the fall of Edom as a symbol of God's ultimate justice.