Jeremiah 51:47

Therefore, behold, the days are coming when I will punish the idols of Babylon. Her entire land will suffer shame, and all her slain will lie fallen within her.

Study Bible

Therefore, behold
The phrase "Therefore, behold" serves as a divine announcement, a call to attention that something significant is about to be declared. In Hebrew, "behold" is often translated from the word "הִנֵּה" (hinneh), which is used to draw the listener's focus to an important message from God. This phrase indicates that the following prophecy is a direct consequence of the preceding actions and behaviors of Babylon, emphasizing the certainty and imminence of God's judgment.

the days are coming
This phrase is a prophetic declaration, often used in the Old Testament to signify a future event that is divinely ordained. It reassures the faithful that God's timing is perfect and that His plans will unfold according to His sovereign will. The Hebrew word for "days" (יָמִים, yamim) can imply a specific period marked by significant divine intervention, reminding believers of God's control over history and His ultimate justice.

when I will punish
The act of punishment here is a divine retribution, a theme consistent throughout the prophetic books. The Hebrew root for "punish" (פָּקַד, paqad) can also mean to visit or to attend to, indicating that God's punishment is not arbitrary but a deliberate act of justice. This reflects God's holiness and His intolerance of idolatry and sin, serving as a warning to all nations that defy His commandments.

the idols of Babylon
Babylon was notorious for its idolatry, worshipping a pantheon of gods and goddesses. The Hebrew word for "idols" (אֱלִילִים, elilim) often denotes worthless or vain objects of worship. This highlights the futility of trusting in man-made deities, contrasting the powerlessness of idols with the sovereignty of the one true God. The judgment against Babylon's idols symbolizes the ultimate triumph of God's truth over falsehood.

Her entire land will suffer shame
The phrase "suffer shame" conveys a deep sense of disgrace and humiliation. In Hebrew, "shame" (בּוּשׁ, bush) often implies a public exposure of guilt and failure. This prophecy foretells the downfall of Babylon, once a proud and mighty empire, now brought low by its own iniquities. It serves as a reminder that no nation, regardless of its power, can stand against God's righteous judgment.

and all her slain will lie fallen within her
This imagery of the slain lying fallen underscores the totality of Babylon's defeat. The Hebrew word for "slain" (חָלָל, chalal) refers to those who have been pierced or fatally wounded, emphasizing the completeness of the destruction. This serves as a sobering reminder of the consequences of sin and rebellion against God. The phrase also reflects the historical reality of Babylon's conquest, where the once-great city was left in ruins, a testament to the fulfillment of God's prophetic word.

Persons / Places / Events

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

2. Babylon
An ancient city and empire known for its wealth, power, and idolatry. It was a significant oppressor of Israel and a symbol of human pride and rebellion against God.

3. Idols of Babylon
Represent the false gods and religious practices that were prevalent in Babylon. These idols were a direct affront to the worship of the one true God.

4. The Punishment
Refers to God's impending judgment on Babylon for its idolatry and sins. This prophecy foretells the fall of Babylon as a divine act of justice.

5. The Slain
The fallen within Babylon symbolize the complete overthrow and devastation that will come upon the city as a result of God's judgment.

Teaching Points

God's Sovereignty Over Nations
God is in control of all nations and their destinies. No empire, regardless of its power, is beyond His reach or judgment.

The Futility of Idolatry
Idolatry leads to shame and destruction. Trusting in anything other than God is ultimately futile and leads to downfall.

The Certainty of Divine Justice
God's justice is certain and will be executed in His perfect timing. Believers can trust that God will right all wrongs.

Call to Repentance
The prophecy serves as a warning to turn away from idolatry and sin. It is a call to repentance and to seek the true God.

Hope in God's Deliverance
For those who trust in God, there is hope and assurance of deliverance from the oppressive systems of the world.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the prophecy against Babylon in Jeremiah 51:47 demonstrate God's sovereignty over nations?

2. In what ways can modern believers identify and avoid idolatry in their own lives?

3. How does the fall of Babylon in Jeremiah 51:47 connect to the themes of judgment and redemption found in Revelation 18?

4. What lessons can we learn from the certainty of God's justice as seen in His judgment on Babylon?

5. How can the call to repentance in Jeremiah 51:47 be applied to our personal spiritual journey today?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Isaiah 47
This chapter also prophesies the downfall of Babylon, emphasizing its arrogance and the futility of its idols.

Revelation 18
The fall of Babylon is echoed in the New Testament, symbolizing the ultimate defeat of worldly systems opposed to God.

Exodus 12:12
God's judgment on the gods of Egypt during the Exodus parallels His judgment on the idols of Babylon, demonstrating His supremacy over false gods.