Jeremiah 48:13

Then Moab will be ashamed of Chemosh, just as the house of Israel was ashamed when they trusted in Bethel.

Study Bible

Then Moab
The mention of "Moab" refers to the ancient nation located east of the Dead Sea, often in conflict with Israel. Moab's history is intertwined with Israel's, as seen in the account of Ruth, a Moabite woman. The Moabites were descendants of Lot, Abraham's nephew, which adds a familial complexity to their relationship with Israel. This verse prophesies a future moment of reckoning for Moab, indicating a divine judgment that aligns with the broader biblical narrative of God holding nations accountable for their idolatry and actions against His people.

will be ashamed
The Hebrew root for "ashamed" is "בּוֹשׁ" (bosh), which conveys a deep sense of disgrace and humiliation. In the biblical context, shame often results from misplaced trust or failure to recognize the sovereignty of God. This shame is not merely emotional but is a public acknowledgment of failure and defeat. For Moab, this shame is tied to their reliance on false gods, highlighting the futility of idolatry and the ultimate triumph of the one true God.

of Chemosh
Chemosh was the chief deity of the Moabites, often associated with war and destruction. Archaeological findings, such as the Mesha Stele, provide evidence of Chemosh's worship and the Moabite belief in his power. However, the Bible consistently portrays Chemosh as powerless before Yahweh, the God of Israel. This verse underscores the biblical theme that all false gods will ultimately be shown as impotent, leading their followers to shame.

as the house of Israel
The "house of Israel" refers to the northern kingdom, which fell into idolatry and was eventually conquered by Assyria. This comparison serves as a warning and a reminder of the consequences of turning away from God. The Israelites' experience is a historical lesson that idolatry leads to downfall, reinforcing the call to faithfulness and obedience to God.

was ashamed of Bethel
Bethel, meaning "house of God," was a significant religious site in Israel. However, it became a center of idolatrous worship, particularly under King Jeroboam, who set up golden calves there. The shame of Bethel is a poignant reminder of how places intended for worship of the true God can become corrupted. This serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of syncretism and the need for purity in worship.

their confidence
The term "confidence" here refers to the misplaced trust in idols and false religious systems. In the biblical worldview, true confidence should be placed in God alone. The verse highlights the folly of relying on anything other than God, as such confidence will inevitably lead to disappointment and shame. This serves as an exhortation to place one's trust in the Lord, who is faithful and unchanging.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Moab
An ancient kingdom located east of the Dead Sea, often in conflict with Israel. Moab is known for its worship of the god Chemosh.

2. Chemosh
The national deity of the Moabites, often associated with war and destruction. Worship of Chemosh involved practices that were detestable to the Israelites.

3. House of Israel
Refers to the northern kingdom of Israel, which fell into idolatry and was eventually exiled by the Assyrians.

4. Bethel
A significant religious site in Israel, where Jeroboam set up a golden calf, leading Israel into idolatry.

5. Jeremiah
A prophet called by God to deliver messages of judgment and hope to the nations, including Moab.

Teaching Points

The Futility of Idolatry
Just as Moab will be ashamed of Chemosh, we must recognize the futility of placing our trust in anything other than God. Idolatry leads to shame and disappointment.

Historical Lessons
The shame of Israel's trust in Bethel serves as a warning. We should learn from past mistakes and avoid repeating them in our spiritual lives.

God's Sovereignty
God's judgment on Moab and Israel demonstrates His sovereignty over all nations. We must acknowledge His authority and align our lives with His will.

Repentance and Restoration
While judgment is pronounced, there is always an opportunity for repentance. We should seek God's forgiveness and restoration when we stray.

Trust in the True God
Our faith should be placed solely in the one true God, who is faithful and trustworthy, unlike the false gods of the nations.

Bible Study Questions

1. What are some modern-day "idols" that people might place their trust in, and how can we avoid falling into the trap of idolatry?

2. How does the shame of Moab's trust in Chemosh compare to the shame experienced by Israel in Bethel, and what lessons can we draw from these historical events?

3. In what ways does God's judgment on Moab and Israel demonstrate His sovereignty, and how should this influence our understanding of His character?

4. How can we apply the principle of repentance and restoration in our own lives when we recognize areas where we have strayed from God's will?

5. What steps can we take to ensure that our trust remains in the true God, and how can we encourage others to do the same?

Connections to Other Scriptures

1 Kings 11:7
Solomon built a high place for Chemosh, showing the infiltration of Moabite worship into Israel.

2 Kings 17:6-23
Describes the fall of the northern kingdom of Israel due to their idolatry, including the worship at Bethel.

Numbers 21:29
Mentions Moab's reliance on Chemosh, highlighting the historical context of their idolatry.

Hosea 10:5-6
Discusses the shame of Israel's idolatry, similar to the shame Moab will experience.