◄ Jeremiah 47 ►
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Judgment on the Philistines (Zephaniah 2:4–7) 1This is the word of the LORD that came to Jeremiah the prophet about the Philistines before Pharaoh struck down Gaza. 2This is what the LORD says: “See how the waters are rising from the north and becoming an overflowing torrent. They will overflow the land and its fullness, the cities and their inhabitants. The people will cry out, and all who dwell in the land will wail 3at the sound of the galloping hooves of stallions, the rumbling of chariots, and the clatter of their wheels. The fathers will not turn back for their sons; their hands will hang limp. 4For the day has come to destroy all the Philistines, to cut off from Tyre and Sidon every remaining ally. Indeed, the LORD is about to destroy the Philistines, the remnant from the coasts of Caphtor.a 5The people of Gaza will shave their heads in mourning; Ashkelon will be silenced. O remnant of their valley,b how long will you gash yourself? 6‘Alas, O sword of the LORD, how long until you rest? Return to your sheath; cease and be still!’ 7How can it rest when the LORD has commanded it? He has appointed it against Ashkelon and the shore of its coastland.” Footnotes: 4 a That is, Crete 5 b That is, the Mediterranean coast or plain Berean Standard Bible (BSB) printed 2016, 2020, 2022, 2025 by Bible Hub and Berean.Bible. Produced in cooperation with Bible Hub, Discovery Bible, unfoldingWord, Bible Aquifer, OpenBible.com, and the Berean Bible Translation Committee. This text of God's Word has been dedicated to the public domain. Free downloads and unlimited usage available. See also the Berean Literal Bible and Berean Interlinear Bible. Bible Hub Jeremiah 47 Summary Judgment on the Philistines Verses 1 – Prelude: The Setting before Pharaoh’s Strike Jeremiah receives a word “about the Philistines, before Pharaoh attacked Gaza.” The message is dated by this historical marker and sets the scene for judgment coming from two directions—Egypt from the south and, more decisively, Babylon from the north. Verses 2–3 – Rising Waters and Panic in the Streets The LORD likens the invading Babylonian army to an irresistible flood “rising from the north.” Cities, farmlands, and people are overrun; the sound of horses, chariots, and wheels turns fathers’ hands limp as they abandon their children in sheer terror. Verses 4–5 – Total Devastation of Philistia “The day has come to destroy all the Philistines.” Allies in Tyre and Sidon are powerless; Gaza shaves her head in mourning; Ashkelon falls silent. The “remnant from the coastland of Caphtor” (the Philistines’ ancestral home) is cut off, and the survivors slash themselves in grief. Verse 6 – A Cry for the Sword to Rest Jeremiah voices the anguish of the land: “ ‘Alas, O sword of the LORD, how long until you rest? Return to your sheath; cease and be still!’ ” (v. 6). It is a desperate plea for the onslaught to end. Verse 7 – The Sword Cannot Rest Until God’s Mission Is Finished The prophet answers his own lament: “ ‘But how can it rest when the LORD has commanded it? He has assigned it against Ashkelon and the shore of its coastland.’ ” (v. 7). Divine purpose, not human desire, dictates the timing of judgment. Jeremiah 47, in the Berean Standard Bible, unveils a divine prophecy against Philistia. The chapter presents Jeremiah's prophetic visions about God's impending judgment on the Philistines, symbolized by an overwhelming flood. The messages emphasize the unavoidable nature of God's wrath against nations that persistently sin and do not repent. Historical Backdrop • Timeframe: Shortly after Babylon’s victory at Carchemish (605 BC) and before Egypt’s thrust into the region (likely Pharaoh Necho II in 601 BC). • International Climate: Judah sits between two superpowers. Babylon presses southward; Egypt tries to retain influence along the Mediterranean coast. Philistia—Gaza, Ashkelon, Ashdod, Ekron, and Gath—is caught in the middle. • Place in Jeremiah: Chapter 47 belongs to the “oracles against the nations” (chs. 46-51), emphasizing that the God of Israel governs all peoples. Philistia on the Map • Coastal Plain: Fertile strip along the Mediterranean, strategic for trade and military movement. • Key Cities: Gaza (southernmost, on major coastal highway), Ashkelon (important port), Ashdod and Ekron (inland strongholds). • Caphtor Connection: “Remnant from the coasts of Caphtor” points back to the Philistines’ origin among the Sea Peoples (cf. Deuteronomy 2:23; Amos 9:7). Key Terms and Imagery • Waters Rising: A favorite Jeremiah image for invading armies (Jeremiah 46:7-8; 51:55). The flood cannot be dammed. • Sword of the LORD: God’s decisive intervention in history (Deuteronomy 32:41; Isaiah 34:5; Ezekiel 21). • Shaved Heads & Self-Gashing: Extreme mourning customs (Jeremiah 16:6; 48:37; 1 Kings 18:28) forbidden to Israel but common among neighbors—signaling utter despair. • “Their Valley” (v. 5): Possibly the lush Philistine coastal valley, once a place of pride, now reaping devastation. Archaeological Insights • Ashkelon: Excavations uncover a violent destruction layer dated to Nebuchadnezzar’s 604 BC campaign, matching Jeremiah’s timeframe. • Gaza: Continuous habitation limits digs, yet cuneiform tablets confirm Babylonian administrative presence in the early 6th century BC. • Philistine Culture: Distinct pottery styles, pork consumption, and Aegean influences underscore their foreign origins, agreeing with the biblical “Caphtor” link. Literary Features 1. Poetic Parallelism—paired lines heighten impact (“waters are rising… they will overflow”). 2. Lament Form—Jeremiah’s plea for the sword to rest mirrors liturgical lament, inviting listeners to grapple with divine judgment. 3. Rhetorical Question—“How can it rest?” drives home the inevitability of God’s decree. Connections to Other Scriptures • Philistine Oracles: Isaiah 14:29-32; Ezekiel 25:15-17; Amos 1:6-8; Zephaniah 2:4-7. • Judgment Imagery: Flood—Isaiah 8:7-8; Daniel 11:40. Sword—Jeremiah 25:16; Revelation 19:15. • Tyre & Sidon: Jesus references their accountability (Matthew 11:21-22), echoing Jeremiah’s theme that no nation escapes God’s assessment. Theological Emphases 1. God’s Universal Rule—He orchestrates events beyond Israel’s borders (Jeremiah 18:7-10). 2. Instruments of Judgment—Babylon’s armies are called “the LORD’s sword,” showing that human forces can serve divine purposes. 3. Certainty of Justice—Delay does not equal escape; the appointed time arrives (Habakkuk 2:3). 4. Mercy within Judgment—The prophet’s plea hints at God’s compassion even as justice rolls on (cf. Lamentations 3:31-33). Prophetic Fulfillment • 604 BC—Nebuchadnezzar sacks Ashkelon. • 601 BC—Pharaoh Necho II raids Gaza but is forced back by Babylon; the city suffers again in 598 BC. • Result—Philistine power is broken, fulfilling the oracle. By the Persian period the Philistines disappear as a distinct people. Christological Echoes • The unstoppable “sword” anticipates the final triumph of the Messiah, who “judges and makes war” in righteousness (Revelation 19:11-16). • Yet that same sword fell on Christ at the cross (Zechariah 13:7; Matthew 26:31), providing rescue for all nations—including former enemies of Israel (Ephesians 2:13-17). Lessons for Today • National security is never guaranteed apart from God. • Humanitarian crises—families torn apart, parents powerless—still reflect the costs of collective sin. • Believers trust God’s timetable: lament is allowed, but faith concedes His right to finish what He starts. • The gospel invites modern “Philistines” to lay down weapons and find peace in the One who bore the sword for them. Connections to Additional Scriptures Isaiah 14:29-31 Another prophecy against the Philistines, reinforcing the theme of God's judgment on nations. Ezekiel 25:15-17 A parallel prophecy that further illustrates God's sovereignty over the Philistines. Psalm 2:1-12 A psalm that speaks to God's authority over the nations and the futility of opposing His will. Acts 17:26-27 Paul speaks of God's sovereignty in determining the times and places for nations, emphasizing His desire for all to seek Him. Teaching Points God's Sovereignty Over Nations Jeremiah 47:1-2 begins with a prophecy against the Philistines, highlighting that God's authority is not limited to Israel. This is the word of the LORD that came to Jeremiah the prophet concerning the Philistines before Pharaoh attacked Gaza. The Certainty of God's Judgment Verses 3-4 describe the impending destruction with vivid imagery, emphasizing the certainty and thoroughness of God's judgment. The fathers will not turn back for their children; their hands will hang limp. The Role of Prophets Jeremiah serves as God's mouthpiece, demonstrating the importance of prophets in communicating God's will and warnings to the nations. The Inevitability of God's Plans Despite human efforts to resist or escape, God's plans will come to pass. Verse 6 asks, Alas, O sword of the LORD, how long until you rest? Return to your sheath; cease and be still. Practical Applications Trust in God's Sovereignty Recognize that God is in control of all nations and events, and trust Him even when circumstances seem chaotic. Heed God's Warnings Just as the Philistines were warned, we should be attentive to God's warnings in our lives and respond with repentance and obedience. Pray for Nations Intercede for nations around the world, asking God to bring justice, peace, and the knowledge of Him to all people. Reflect on God's Justice and Mercy Consider how God's justice is balanced with His mercy, and how this should influence our interactions with others. People 1. The LORD (Yahweh) The chapter begins with the word of the LORD that came to Jeremiah concerning the Philistines. The LORD is the central figure who delivers the prophecy. In Hebrew, the name used is "YHWH" (יהוה), which is the sacred name of God in the Old Testament. The Berean Standard Bible states: "This is the word of the LORD that came to Jeremiah the prophet concerning the Philistines before Pharaoh attacked Gaza" (Jeremiah 47:1). 2. Jeremiah The prophet through whom the word of the LORD is delivered. Jeremiah is the human messenger chosen by God to convey His message to the people. The BSB refers to him as "Jeremiah the prophet." 3. The Philistines Although not a single person, the Philistines are the primary group addressed in this prophecy. They were an ancient people who lived in the coastal region of Canaan. The prophecy speaks of their impending destruction. The BSB mentions them in the context of the prophecy: "For the day has come to destroy all the Philistines" (Jeremiah 47:4). 4. Pharaoh The ruler of Egypt at the time, mentioned in the context of attacking Gaza, a Philistine city. While not directly involved in the prophecy's fulfillment, Pharaoh's actions are part of the historical backdrop. The BSB states: "before Pharaoh attacked Gaza" (Jeremiah 47:1). Places 1. Gaza Gaza is one of the principal cities of the Philistines. In Jeremiah 47:1, it is mentioned as a place that will experience destruction: "This is the word of the LORD that came to Jeremiah the prophet concerning the Philistines before Pharaoh attacked Gaza." The Hebrew root for Gaza is "עַזָּה" (ʿazzâ), which means "strong" or "fortress." 2. Ashkelon Ashkelon is another major Philistine city. In Jeremiah 47:5, it is described as being in mourning: "Baldness has come upon Gaza; Ashkelon is silenced. O remnant of their valley, how long will you gash yourself?" The Hebrew root for Ashkelon is "אַשְׁקְלוֹן" (ʾašqəlôn), which is derived from a root meaning "to weigh" or "to balance." Events 1. Prophecy Against the Philistines The chapter begins with a prophecy given to Jeremiah concerning the Philistines. This prophecy is delivered before Pharaoh attacked Gaza. The Philistines were a significant group in the ancient Near East, often in conflict with Israel. 2. The Waters Rising from the North The prophecy describes "waters rising from the north" that will become an "overflowing torrent" (Jeremiah 47:2). This imagery symbolizes an invading army, likely the Babylonians, coming to bring destruction. The Hebrew word for "waters" (מַיִם, mayim) often symbolizes chaos and overwhelming force. 3. The Panic and Lamentation As the invading force approaches, the people will cry out, and there will be great lamentation. The text describes fathers not turning back for their children due to the overwhelming fear and chaos (Jeremiah 47:3). 4. Destruction of the Philistine Cities The prophecy specifically mentions the destruction of key Philistine cities, including Gaza and Ashkelon. The Hebrew root for "cut off" (כָּרַת, karat) in Jeremiah 47:5 indicates a complete and decisive end to these places. 5. The Sword of the LORD The chapter concludes with a vivid depiction of the "sword of the LORD" that will not be quiet until it has accomplished its purpose against the Philistines (Jeremiah 47:6-7). This metaphor emphasizes divine judgment and the inevitability of God's will being fulfilled. Lessons from Jeremiah 47 1. The Sovereignty of God Jeremiah 47 reminds us of God's ultimate control over nations and events. The chapter begins with a prophecy against the Philistines, showing that God is not limited by borders or human power. As it is written, "This is what the LORD says: 'See how the waters are rising in the north; they will become an overflowing torrent'" (Jeremiah 47:2). This serves as a reminder that God’s plans are unstoppable and His will prevails. 2. The Certainty of Prophecy The prophecies in Jeremiah 47 were fulfilled, demonstrating the reliability of God's Word. When God speaks, it is not a matter of if, but when. This certainty should encourage us to trust in His promises, knowing that "the word of the LORD endures forever" (1 Peter 1:25). 3. The Reality of Judgment The chapter vividly describes the coming judgment on the Philistines, illustrating that God’s justice is real and inevitable. "The day has come to destroy all the Philistines" (Jeremiah 47:4). This serves as a sobering reminder that God’s judgment is not to be taken lightly, urging us to live righteously. 4. The Call to Repentance While the chapter focuses on judgment, it implicitly calls us to repentance. The Philistines faced destruction because of their persistent rebellion. We are reminded of the importance of turning back to God, as "He is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance" (2 Peter 3:9). 5. The Power of Prayer Though not explicitly mentioned in this chapter, the context of Jeremiah’s prophecies often involved prayer. We are encouraged to intercede for others, knowing that "the prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective" (James 5:16). 6. The Importance of Obedience Jeremiah’s role as a prophet required obedience to God’s difficult commands. His example teaches us the importance of following God’s will, even when it’s challenging. "If you love Me, you will keep My commandments" (John 14:15). 7. The Transience of Earthly Power The Philistines were once a formidable force, yet they were not immune to God’s judgment. This reminds us that earthly power is temporary and that true strength lies in God. "The LORD is my strength and my shield" (Psalm 28:7). 8. The Hope of Restoration While Jeremiah 47 focuses on judgment, the broader narrative of Scripture assures us of God’s desire to restore. Even in judgment, God’s ultimate plan is redemption through Christ. "For I know the plans I have for you... plans to give you hope and a future" (Jeremiah 29:11). 9. The Role of Prophets Jeremiah’s life exemplifies the role of prophets as God’s messengers. They were tasked with delivering difficult truths, reminding us of the importance of speaking God’s truth in love. "Preach the word; be prepared in season and out of season" (2 Timothy 4:2). 10. The Assurance of God’s Presence Finally, Jeremiah’s ministry, including the prophecies in chapter 47, assures us of God’s constant presence. Even in times of judgment, God is with His people. "I am with you always, to the very end of the age" (Matthew 28:20). These lessons from Jeremiah 47 encourage us to trust in God’s sovereignty, embrace His truth, and live in obedience, knowing that His plans are for our ultimate good. Topics 1. Prophecy Against the Philistines Jeremiah 47 begins with a prophecy concerning the Philistines. The word of the LORD came to Jeremiah before Pharaoh attacked Gaza. This sets the stage for the judgment that is to come upon the Philistines, a recurring theme in the prophetic literature where God pronounces judgment on the nations surrounding Israel. 2. The Rising Waters from the North The prophecy describes an impending disaster likened to rising waters from the north, which will overflow the land and everything in it. This imagery of overwhelming waters symbolizes an invading army, often associated with Babylon in the prophetic texts. The Hebrew word for "waters" (מַיִם, mayim) emphasizes the destructive and unstoppable nature of this force. 3. The Panic and Despair of the Philistines The text vividly portrays the panic and despair that will grip the Philistines. Fathers will not turn back for their children because their hands will hang limp. This highlights the totality of the chaos and the breakdown of social and familial structures in the face of divine judgment. 4. The Day of the LORD's Vengeance The passage refers to this event as the day of the LORD's vengeance, a common theme in the prophetic books where God executes judgment on the nations. The Hebrew term for "vengeance" (נָקָם, naqam) underscores the idea of divine retribution and justice. 5. The Destruction of Gaza and Ashkelon Specific cities such as Gaza and Ashkelon are mentioned as targets of destruction. The prophecy foretells the cutting off of the Philistines, including the remnant from the coasts of Caphtor. This reflects the historical enmity between Israel and the Philistines and God's ultimate sovereignty over all nations. 6. The Sword of the LORD The chapter concludes with a metaphorical depiction of the sword of the LORD, which will not be quiet until it has accomplished its purpose. This symbolizes the certainty and inevitability of God's judgment. The Hebrew word for "sword" (חֶרֶב, chereb) is often used in the context of divine warfare and judgment. Themes 1. Divine Judgment on Philistia Jeremiah 47 begins with a prophecy against the Philistines, indicating God's impending judgment. The chapter opens with, "This is the word of the LORD that came to Jeremiah the prophet concerning the Philistines before Pharaoh attacked Gaza" (Jeremiah 47:1). The theme of divine judgment is central, as God declares His intention to punish the Philistines for their actions. 2. The Sovereignty of God The passage emphasizes God's control over nations and events. In verse 2, it states, "This is what the LORD says: 'See how the waters are rising in the north; they will become an overflowing torrent. They will overflow the land and everything in it, the towns and those who live in them.'" The imagery of rising waters symbolizes God's unstoppable power and sovereignty over creation and history. 3. The Inevitability of Destruction The prophecy describes the certainty of destruction that will come upon the Philistines. Verse 3 mentions, "At the noise of the hooves of galloping steeds, at the rumble of their chariots, the clatter of their wheels, fathers will not turn to help their children; their hands will hang limp." This theme highlights the inevitable and overwhelming nature of the coming judgment. 4. The Futility of Human Defense The text underscores the futility of human efforts to defend against God's decreed judgment. In verse 5, it is written, "Gaza will shave her head in mourning; Ashkelon will be silenced. O remnant of their valley, how long will you gash yourself?" The act of shaving the head and self-mutilation reflects the despair and helplessness of the Philistines in the face of divine wrath. 5. The Role of Prophetic Warning Jeremiah's role as a prophet is to deliver God's message of warning and judgment. The chapter serves as a reminder of the importance of heeding prophetic warnings, as they are divinely inspired and intended to call people to repentance and awareness of God's plans. Prayer Points Pray for Understanding Ask God to give us wisdom and understanding as we study His Word, particularly in recognizing His sovereignty. Pray for Repentance Seek God's forgiveness for any areas where we have ignored His warnings or resisted His will. Pray for the Nations Lift up the nations of the world, praying for leaders to seek God's guidance and for people to come to know Him. Pray for Peace Request God's peace to reign in areas of conflict and for His justice to be established on earth. Answering Tough Questions 1. Jeremiah 47:1 – Is there any historical or archaeological evidence verifying Pharaoh’s attack on Gaza at this specific time, given the lack of detailed ancient records? 2. Jeremiah 47:2 – How could “waters rising in the north” metaphorically represent the Babylonian threat, and does this imagery conflict with known historical timelines of regional invasions? 3. Jeremiah 47:4 – Did the Philistines ever face complete destruction at this juncture, or does this contradict what we know from other historical accounts or archaeological findings? 4. Jeremiah 47:5 – Why does the prophecy mention baldness at Gaza and Ashkelon’s demise if records indicate these cities continued to exist beyond the period of Jeremiah’s ministry? 5. How do we reconcile Jeremiah 47's severe judgments on the Philistines with sources suggesting a gradual decline instead of sudden annihilation? Bible Study Discussion Questions 1. How does the imagery of the flood in Jeremiah 47 illustrate the nature of God's judgement? 2. How does the prophecy against the Philistines reflect on the concept of divine justice? 3. What parallels can you draw between the prophecies in Jeremiah 47 and the situations in the world today? 4. Why do you think God allowed Jeremiah to see these visions of judgement? 5. How does the concept of God's sovereignty come into play in this chapter? 6. What can we learn from the Philistines' failure to heed prophetic warnings? 7. In what ways does the depiction of suffering in this chapter affect you personally? 8. How does the pleading of the "sword of the LORD" (v.6) personify God's reluctance to inflict suffering? 9. In the face of inevitable judgement, what do you think the Philistines could have done differently? 10. How can the lessons from this chapter be applied to personal repentance and obedience to God? 11. Given the context of this chapter, how can we reconcile a loving God with a God of judgement? 12. What are some actions today that may be provoking the "sword of the LORD" and what can we do about them? 13. How should the lessons from Jeremiah's prophecy influence our response to persistent sin in our society? 14. How does understanding the historical and cultural context of Jeremiah 47 enrich your interpretation of the text? 15. How can this prophetic warning against Philistia serve as a call to action for us today? 16. How can we prevent the metaphorical "flooding" described in Jeremiah 47 in our lives? 17. How can we, as modern-day Christians, recognize and respond to prophetic messages? 18. If you were in the position of the Philistines, how would you have reacted to Jeremiah's prophecy? 19. How does this prophecy challenge your understanding of God’s patience and justice? 20. Considering Jeremiah 47, how can we contribute towards creating societies that are more aligned with God's will? Bible Hub Chapter Summaries and Bible Study Questions