Jeremiah 49:9

If grape gatherers came to you, would they not leave some gleanings? Were thieves to come in the night, would they not steal only what they wanted?

Study Bible

If grape gatherers came to you
This phrase evokes the imagery of harvesters in a vineyard, a common sight in ancient Israel and surrounding regions. The Hebrew root for "grape gatherers" is "בֹּצְרִים" (botserim), which refers to those who collect grapes during the harvest. In the context of ancient agricultural practices, grape gatherers were expected to leave some gleanings for the poor, as prescribed in Leviticus 19:10. This reflects God's provision and care for the marginalized, emphasizing His justice and mercy. The imagery here suggests a natural order and expectation of leaving behind remnants, which contrasts with the total devastation prophesied for Edom.

would they not leave some gleanings?
The concept of "gleanings" (Hebrew: "עֹלֵלוֹת" - olelot) refers to the leftover produce that harvesters intentionally leave behind for the poor and needy. This practice was a part of the Mosaic Law, highlighting God's compassion and the social responsibility of His people (Deuteronomy 24:21). The rhetorical question implies that even those who take from the land leave something behind, underscoring the thoroughness of the coming judgment on Edom, which will leave nothing.

If thieves came by night
The mention of "thieves" (Hebrew: "גַּנָּבִים" - ganavim) coming "by night" suggests stealth and secrecy, as night was the preferred time for theft due to the cover of darkness. In the ancient Near East, theft was a common threat, and the night was synonymous with danger and vulnerability. This phrase sets up a comparison between the actions of thieves, who typically take only what they need or can carry, and the total destruction that will befall Edom, which will be far more comprehensive.

would they not destroy only what they wanted?
This phrase highlights the selective nature of theft, where thieves typically take only valuable items, leaving the rest intact. The Hebrew word for "destroy" (שָׁחַת - shachat) can also mean to spoil or ruin, indicating a level of discretion even in acts of theft. The rhetorical question implies that even thieves exercise some restraint, contrasting with the complete and indiscriminate destruction that God will bring upon Edom. This serves as a sobering reminder of the severity of divine judgment when God acts against a nation for its sins.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Jeremiah
A major prophet in the Old Testament, known for his prophecies concerning the judgment of God upon Judah and the surrounding nations.

2. Edom
A nation descended from Esau, Jacob's brother, often in conflict with Israel. Jeremiah 49:9 is part of a prophecy against Edom.

3. Grape Gatherers
Workers who harvest grapes, leaving behind some gleanings for the poor, as per the law in Leviticus.

4. Thieves
Individuals who steal, typically taking only what they need or want, leaving the rest.

5. Prophecy Against Nations
Jeremiah 49 is part of a series of prophecies against various nations, demonstrating God's sovereignty over all peoples.

Teaching Points

God's Judgment is Complete
Unlike human actions, which often leave remnants, God's judgment is thorough and complete. This serves as a warning to those who oppose Him.

The Mercy of God
The imagery of gleaning reflects God's provision and mercy, even in judgment. He leaves room for repentance and restoration.

The Sovereignty of God
God's control over nations and their destinies is evident. Believers can trust in His ultimate plan and justice.

The Call to Repentance
The prophecy serves as a call to repentance, urging individuals and nations to turn back to God before judgment comes.

The Importance of Obedience
The reference to gleaning laws highlights the importance of obeying God's commands, which are designed for the welfare of all.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the imagery of grape gatherers and thieves in Jeremiah 49:9 illustrate the nature of God's judgment compared to human actions?

2. In what ways does the prophecy against Edom in Jeremiah 49 relate to the broader theme of God's sovereignty over nations?

3. How can the concept of gleaning, as seen in Leviticus 19:9-10, inform our understanding of God's provision and mercy in times of judgment?

4. What lessons can we learn from the complete destruction prophesied against Edom about the consequences of persistent disobedience to God?

5. How can we apply the principles of God's justice and mercy in Jeremiah 49:9 to our personal lives and communities today?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Obadiah 1:5
This verse parallels Jeremiah 49:9, using similar imagery to describe the complete destruction that will come upon Edom.

Leviticus 19:9-10
The law concerning gleaning, which provides for the poor and the foreigner, is referenced in the imagery of grape gatherers.

Proverbs 6:30-31
Discusses the actions of a thief, providing insight into the nature of theft and its consequences.