Jeremiah 49:29

They will take their tents and flocks, their tent curtains and all their goods. They will take their camels for themselves. They will shout to them: 'Terror is on every side!'

Study Bible

Their tents and their flocks
In the ancient Near Eastern context, tents and flocks were essential to the nomadic lifestyle of many tribes, including the Bedouins. The Hebrew word for "tents" (אֹהָלִים, ohalim) signifies not just physical structures but the dwelling places that represent the heart of a community's life. "Flocks" (צֹאנָם, tsonam) were a primary source of wealth and sustenance, indicating the economic foundation of these people. The loss of tents and flocks symbolizes a devastating blow to their way of life, reflecting God's judgment and the vulnerability of relying on material possessions.

will be taken away
The phrase "will be taken away" (יִקָּחוּ, yiqqachu) implies a forceful removal, often used in contexts of plunder or captivity. This reflects the historical reality of invasions where conquerors would seize the possessions of the defeated. It serves as a reminder of the transient nature of earthly wealth and the ultimate sovereignty of God over all nations and peoples.

they will carry off for themselves
The invaders "will carry off for themselves" (יִשָּׂאוּ לָהֶם, yissa'u lahem) suggests an act of self-serving plunder. This phrase highlights the selfish motives of the conquerors, who seek to enrich themselves at the expense of others. It underscores the moral decay and greed that often accompany military conquests, serving as a warning against the pursuit of wealth through unjust means.

their tent curtains
"their tent curtains" (יְרִיעוֹתֵיהֶם, yeri'otehem) refers to the fabric coverings of the tents, which provided privacy and protection. In a broader sense, the removal of these curtains symbolizes the stripping away of security and dignity. It is a vivid image of exposure and vulnerability, reminding us of the fragility of human defenses without divine protection.

all their goods and their camels
The phrase "all their goods and their camels" (כָּל־כְּלֵיהֶם וּגְמַלֵּיהֶם, kol-k'leihem u-g'mallehem) encompasses the entirety of their possessions, with camels being particularly valuable as they were essential for transportation and trade. This comprehensive loss signifies total devastation, emphasizing the completeness of the judgment. It serves as a cautionary tale about the futility of placing trust in material wealth.

They will call out to them
"They will call out to them" (וְקָרְאוּ אֲלֵיהֶם, v'kar'u alehem) indicates a cry or proclamation, often associated with distress or alarm. This calling out is a response to the overwhelming fear and chaos brought by the invaders. It reflects the human tendency to seek help or express despair in times of crisis, pointing to the need for a deeper reliance on God.

‘Terror is on every side!’
The declaration "‘Terror is on every side!’" (חִתָּה מִסָּבִיב, chittah missaviv) captures the pervasive fear and panic that accompany divine judgment. This phrase is a recurring motif in Jeremiah, symbolizing the inescapable nature of God's wrath against sin. It serves as a sobering reminder of the consequences of turning away from God and the importance of seeking His protection and guidance.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Kedar
A nomadic tribe descended from Ishmael, known for their tents and flocks. They were skilled in archery and lived in the Arabian desert.

2. Hazor
A region or group of settlements in Arabia, not to be confused with the Canaanite city of the same name. It was associated with Kedar and known for its wealth and trade.

3. Nebuchadnezzar
The king of Babylon who was used by God as an instrument of judgment against various nations, including Kedar and Hazor.

4. Jeremiah
The prophet who delivered God's messages of judgment and hope to the nations, including the prophecy against Kedar and Hazor.

5. Babylonian Invasion
The event where Nebuchadnezzar's forces would attack and plunder the wealth of Kedar and Hazor, fulfilling God's judgment.

Teaching Points

God's Sovereignty in Judgment
God uses nations and leaders to accomplish His purposes, even when they are unaware of His plans. This reminds us of His ultimate control over history.

The Fleeting Nature of Earthly Wealth
The wealth and security of Kedar and Hazor were temporary. We should not place our trust in material possessions but in God, who is eternal.

The Reality of Divine Justice
God's justice is impartial and inevitable. It serves as a warning to live righteously and align ourselves with His will.

The Call to Repentance
Prophecies of judgment are also calls to repentance. We should examine our lives and turn from sin to avoid spiritual downfall.

The Assurance of God's Word
The fulfillment of prophecy demonstrates the reliability of God's Word. We can trust His promises and warnings as true and certain.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the prophecy against Kedar and Hazor illustrate the sovereignty of God over nations?

2. In what ways can the downfall of Kedar serve as a warning against placing our trust in material wealth?

3. How does the phrase "Terror is on every side" reflect the consequences of ignoring God's warnings? Can you find other instances in the Bible where this phrase is used?

4. What lessons can we learn from the fulfillment of prophecies in the Bible regarding the reliability of God's Word?

5. How can we apply the call to repentance found in Jeremiah's prophecies to our personal lives today?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Isaiah 21:16-17
This passage also speaks of the downfall of Kedar, emphasizing the brevity of their glory and the reduction of their warriors.

Psalm 120:5
The psalmist laments dwelling among the tents of Kedar, symbolizing a place of strife and distance from peace.

Genesis 25:13
Lists Kedar as one of the sons of Ishmael, establishing the tribe's lineage and historical context.

Jeremiah 6:25
The phrase "Terror is on every side" is used to describe the pervasive fear and destruction that accompanies God's judgment.