Jeremiah 48:1-6

Prophecy against Moab

1 Concerning Moab: The LORD of heavenly forces, the God of Israel, proclaims: How awful for Nebo; it lies in ruins. Kirathaim is captured and shamed; the fortress is disgraced, reduced to rubble.

2 No one sings Moab's praise any longer! In Heshbon they are hatching a plot against her: "Come, let's bring down the nation!" You too, madmen, will be silenced; the sword will pursue you.

3 Listen to the cries for help from Horonaim: "Destruction and massive devastation!"

4 Moab is shattered; its young cry for help.

5 On the way up to Luhith, there is uncontrollable weeping. On the way down to Horonaim, they hear sobs of anguish.

6 Run for your lives! Be like Aroer in the desert.

Jeremiah 48:1-6 Meaning and Commentary

INTRODUCTION TO JEREMIAH 48

This chapter contains a prophecy of the destruction of Moab, and of the mourning that should be for it; and not only its destruction in general is predicted, but particular places are mentioned, on which it should fall, Jer 48:1-5; the causes of which were their confidence in their works and riches, their carnal ease and security, and their idolatry, they should now be ashamed of, Jer 48:6-13; and this destruction is represented both as certain and as near, notwithstanding their mighty warriors and choice young men, Jer 48:14-17; and then other cities are particularly named, that should share in the calamity, Jer 48:18-25; and all this because of their insolence to the Lord; their contempt of his people; their pride, arrogance, and haughtiness; their wrath, and their lies, Jer 48:26-30; and this destruction is further exaggerated by the lamentation of the prophet over Moab in general, and over several particular cities; and by the lamentation of the inhabitants of them, because of the spoiling of their vines, their fruits, and their riches, Jer 48:31-39; and this is confirmed by the Lord, as to the swiftness of the enemy that should destroy them; the consternation and fear that should seize them; the flight they should be put to; and the consumption and captivity of them, Jer 48:40-46; and the chapter is concluded with a promise of the return of their captivity in the latter day, Jer 48:47.

Footnotes

• [a] Heb uncertain