A sword is against her horses and chariots and against all the foreigners in her midst, and they will become like women. A sword is against her treasuries, and they will be plundered. A sword is against her horses and chariotsThis phrase signifies the impending judgment and destruction upon Babylon's military might. In ancient times, horses and chariots were symbols of power and strength in warfare. The Hebrew word for "sword" (חֶרֶב, chereb) often symbolizes divine judgment. The imagery here suggests that no matter how formidable Babylon's military resources are, they are powerless against God's decree. Historically, Babylon was known for its military prowess, but this prophecy foretells its vulnerability and ultimate defeat. Against all the foreigners in her midst
This refers to the mercenaries and foreign allies who were part of Babylon's army. The presence of foreigners indicates Babylon's reliance on external support for its military campaigns. The Hebrew term for "foreigners" (זָרִים, zarim) can also imply those who are estranged or alienated from God. This highlights the futility of relying on human alliances rather than divine protection. The historical context shows that Babylon was a melting pot of cultures and peoples, yet this diversity would not save it from divine judgment. They will become like women
In the cultural context of ancient times, this phrase implies a loss of courage and strength, as women were traditionally seen as less involved in warfare. The Hebrew word for "women" (נָשִׁים, nashim) here is used metaphorically to describe the fear and helplessness that will overcome Babylon's warriors. This is not a denigration of women but rather a reflection of the societal norms of the time. The prophecy underscores the complete reversal of Babylon's fortunes, from a mighty empire to one paralyzed by fear. A sword is against her treasures
The treasures of Babylon symbolize its wealth and economic power. The repetition of "a sword" emphasizes the comprehensive nature of God's judgment. The Hebrew word for "treasures" (אוֹצָרוֹת, otzarot) suggests stored wealth, which Babylon prided itself on. Historically, Babylon was renowned for its opulence and riches, but this prophecy declares that its material wealth will not protect it from destruction. And they will be plundered
This phrase indicates the complete stripping away of Babylon's wealth and resources. The Hebrew root for "plundered" (בָּזַז, bazaz) means to seize or take by force. This reflects the historical reality of Babylon's fall to the Medes and Persians, who looted its riches. Theologically, this serves as a reminder that earthly wealth is transient and that true security is found only in God. The prophecy calls believers to place their trust not in material possessions but in the eternal promises of God. Persons / Places / Events 1. BabylonThe primary subject of Jeremiah 50, Babylon is the empire that conquered Judah and took the Israelites into exile. This chapter prophesies its downfall. 2. ForeignersRefers to the mercenaries or foreign soldiers within Babylon's army. Their presence indicates Babylon's reliance on external forces for military strength. 3. Horses and ChariotsSymbolize military power and might. In ancient warfare, horses and chariots were crucial for battle success. 4. TreasuresRepresents the wealth and resources of Babylon, which were amassed through conquest and trade. 5. SwordA metaphor for divine judgment and destruction. It signifies God's instrument of punishment against Babylon. Teaching Points Divine Judgment is InevitableGod's judgment against Babylon serves as a reminder that no nation or power is beyond His reach. He holds all accountable for their actions. Reliance on God Over Human StrengthThe downfall of Babylon's military might underscores the futility of relying on human power. Believers are encouraged to trust in God rather than worldly resources. The Consequences of Pride and ArroganceBabylon's wealth and power led to pride, which ultimately resulted in its downfall. Christians are warned against the dangers of pride and self-reliance. God's Sovereignty Over NationsThis passage reaffirms that God is in control of history and the rise and fall of nations. Believers can find comfort in His ultimate authority. The Transience of Earthly TreasuresBabylon's plundered treasures remind us that material wealth is temporary. Christians are called to store up treasures in heaven. Bible Study Questions 1. How does the prophecy against Babylon in Jeremiah 50:37 reflect God's justice and sovereignty? 2. In what ways can we be tempted to rely on "horses and chariots" in our own lives, and how can we shift our trust to God? 3. What parallels can you draw between the fall of Babylon and the warnings given to other nations or entities in the Bible? 4. How does the concept of divine judgment in Jeremiah 50:37 challenge or encourage you in your personal walk with God? 5. Reflect on a time when you experienced the transience of earthly treasures. How did that experience shape your understanding of storing up treasures in heaven? Connections to Other Scriptures Isaiah 13This chapter also prophesies the fall of Babylon, emphasizing God's sovereignty over nations and His ability to bring down even the mightiest empires. Revelation 18Describes the fall of "Babylon the Great," drawing a parallel between ancient Babylon and future systems of worldly power opposed to God. Psalm 20:7Contrasts trust in chariots and horses with trust in the name of the Lord, highlighting the futility of relying on human strength. People Babylonians, Jeremiah, Nebuchadnezzar, NebuchadrezzarPlaces Assyria, Babylon, Bashan, Carmel, Chaldea, Gilead, Gomorrah, Jordan River, Merathaim, Pekod, Sodom, ZionTopics Attackers, Chariot, Chariots, Foreign, Foreigners, Horses, Midst, Mingled, Mixed, Plundered, Rabble, Ranks, Robbed, Spoiled, Store-houses, Sword, Treasures, Treasuries, Troops, WomenDictionary of Bible Themes Jeremiah 50:37 5252 chariots Jeremiah 50:35-37 5572 sword Jeremiah 50:35-38 5401 madness Library The Kinsman-Redeemer
'Their Redeemer is strong; the Lord of Hosts is His name: He shall thoroughly plead their cause.'--JER. l. 34. Among the remarkable provisions of the Mosaic law there were some very peculiar ones affecting the next-of-kin. The nearest living blood relation to a man had certain obligations and offices to discharge, under certain contingencies, in respect of which he received a special name; which is sometimes translated in the Old Testament 'Redeemer,' and sometimes 'Avenger' of blood. What the etymological …
Alexander Maclaren—Expositions of Holy ScriptureCovenanting Predicted in Prophecy.
The fact of Covenanting, under the Old Testament dispensations, being approved of God, gives a proof that it was proper then, which is accompanied by the voice of prophecy, affording evidence that even in periods then future it should no less be proper. The argument for the service that is afforded by prophecy is peculiar, and, though corresponding with evidence from other sources, is independent. Because that God willed to make known truth through his servants the prophets, we should receive it …
John Cunningham—The Ordinance of Covenanting Moses' Prayer to be Blotted Out of God's Book.
"And Moses returned unto the Lord and said. Oh! this people have sinned a great sin, and have made them gods of gold. Yet now, if thou--wilt, forgive their sin; and if not, blot me, I pray they, out of thy book which than hast written." In the preceding discourse we endeavored to show that the idea of being willing to be damned for the glory of God is not found in the text--that the sentiment is erroneous and absurd--then adduced the constructions which have been put on the text by sundry expositors, …
Andrew Lee et al—Sermons on Various Important Subjects Covenanting Confers Obligation.
As it has been shown that all duty, and that alone, ought to be vowed to God in covenant, it is manifest that what is lawfully engaged to in swearing by the name of God is enjoined in the moral law, and, because of the authority of that law, ought to be performed as a duty. But it is now to be proved that what is promised to God by vow or oath, ought to be performed also because of the act of Covenanting. The performance of that exercise is commanded, and the same law which enjoins that the duties …
John Cunningham—The Ordinance of Covenanting The Old Testament Canon from Its Beginning to Its Close.
The first important part of the Old Testament put together as a whole was the Pentateuch, or rather, the five books of Moses and Joshua. This was preceded by smaller documents, which one or more redactors embodied in it. The earliest things committed to writing were probably the ten words proceeding from Moses himself, afterwards enlarged into the ten commandments which exist at present in two recensions (Exod. xx., Deut. v.) It is true that we have the oldest form of the decalogue from the Jehovist …
Samuel Davidson—The Canon of the Bible "If So be that the Spirit of God Dwell in You. Now if any Man have not the Spirit of Christ, He is None of His. "
Rom. viii. 9.--"If so be that the Spirit of God dwell in you. Now if any man have not the Spirit of Christ, he is none of his." "But will God in very deed dwell with men on the earth?" 2 Chron. vi. 18. It was the wonder of one of the wisest of men, and indeed, considering his infinite highness above the height of heavens, his immense and incomprehensible greatness, that the heaven of heavens cannot contain him, and then the baseness, emptiness, and worthlessness of man, it may be a wonder to the …
Hugh Binning—The Works of the Rev. Hugh Binning Scriptures Showing the Sin and Danger of Joining with Wicked and Ungodly Men.
Scriptures Showing The Sin And Danger Of Joining With Wicked And Ungodly Men. When the Lord is punishing such a people against whom he hath a controversy, and a notable controversy, every one that is found shall be thrust through: and every one joined with them shall fall, Isa. xiii. 15. They partake in their judgment, not only because in a common calamity all shares, (as in Ezek. xxi. 3.) but chiefly because joined with and partakers with these whom God is pursuing; even as the strangers that join …
Hugh Binning—The Works of the Rev. Hugh Binning Being Made Archbishop of Armagh, He Suffers Many Troubles. Peace Being Made, from Being Archbishop of Armagh He Becomes Bishop of Down.
[Sidenote: 1129] 19. (12). Meanwhile[365] it happened that Archbishop Cellach[366] fell sick: he it was who ordained Malachy deacon, presbyter and bishop: and knowing that he was dying he made a sort of testament[367] to the effect that Malachy ought to succeed him,[368] because none seemed worthier to be bishop of the first see. This he gave in charge to those who were present, this he commanded to the absent, this to the two kings of Munster[369] and to the magnates of the land he specially enjoined …
H. J. Lawlor—St. Bernard of Clairvaux's Life of St. Malachy of Armagh The Godly are in Some Sense Already Blessed
I proceed now to the second aphorism or conclusion, that the godly are in some sense already blessed. The saints are blessed not only when they are apprehended by God, but while they are travellers to glory. They are blessed before they are crowned. This seems a paradox to flesh and blood. What, reproached and maligned, yet blessed! A man that looks upon the children of God with a carnal eye and sees how they are afflicted, and like the ship in the gospel which was covered with waves' (Matthew 8:24), …
Thomas Watson—The Beatitudes: An Exposition of Matthew 5:1-12 Saved by Grace;
OR, A DISCOURSE OF THE GRACE OF GOD: SHOWING-- I. WHAT IT IS TO BE SAVED. II. WHAT IT IS TO BE SAVED BY GRACE. III. WHO THEY AEE THAT ABE SAVED BY GRACE. IV. HOW IT APPEARS THAT THEY ARE SAVED BY GRACE. V. WHAT SHOULD BE THE REASON THAT GOD SHOULD CHOOSE TO SAVE SINNERS BY GRACE RATHER THAN BY ANY OTHER MEANS. ADVERTISEMENT BY THE EDITOR. THIS admirable Treatise upon the most important of all subjects, that of the soul's salvation, was first published in a pocket volume, in the year 1675. This has …
John Bunyan—The Works of John Bunyan Volumes 1-3 Covenanting Performed in Former Ages with Approbation from Above.
That the Lord gave special token of his approbation of the exercise of Covenanting, it belongs to this place to show. His approval of the duty was seen when he unfolded the promises of the Everlasting Covenant to his people, while they endeavoured to perform it; and his approval thereof is continually seen in his fulfilment to them of these promises. The special manifestations of his regard, made to them while attending to the service before him, belonged to one or other, or both, of those exhibitions …
John Cunningham—The Ordinance of Covenanting Jeremiah
The interest of the book of Jeremiah is unique. On the one hand, it is our most reliable and elaborate source for the long period of history which it covers; on the other, it presents us with prophecy in its most intensely human phase, manifesting itself through a strangely attractive personality that was subject to like doubts and passions with ourselves. At his call, in 626 B.C., he was young and inexperienced, i. 6, so that he cannot have been born earlier than 650. The political and religious …
John Edgar McFadyen—Introduction to the Old Testament Links Jeremiah 50:37 NIVJeremiah 50:37 NLTJeremiah 50:37 ESVJeremiah 50:37 NASBJeremiah 50:37 KJV
Jeremiah 50:37 Commentaries
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