Jeremiah 48:21-31

21 People on the high plain have been punished. Judgment has come to these towns: Holon, Jahzah, and Mephaath;

22 Dibon, Nebo, and Beth Diblathaim;

23 Kiriathaim, Beth Gamul, and Beth Meon;

24 Kerioth and Bozrah. Judgment has come to all the towns of Moab, far and near.

25 Moab's strength has been cut off, and its arm broken!" says the Lord.

26 "The people of Moab thought they were greater than the Lord, so punish them until they act as if they are drunk. Moab will fall and roll around in its own vomit, and people will even make fun of it.

27 Moab, you made fun of Israel. Israel was caught in the middle of a gang of thieves. When you spoke about Israel, you shook your head and acted as if you were better than it.

28 People in Moab, leave your towns empty and go live among the rocks. Be like a dove that makes its nest at the entrance of a cave.

29 "We have heard that the people of Moab are proud, very proud. They are proud, very proud, and in their hearts they think they are important."

30 The Lord says, "I know Moab's great pride, but it is useless. Moab's bragging accomplishes nothing.

31 So I cry sadly for Moab, for everyone in Moab. I moan for the people from the town of Kir Hareseth.

Jeremiah 48:21-31 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.