Jeremias 48:12-18

12 And they brought all their army, and went to fight against him, and found him near much water in Gabaon.

13 And it came to pass, when all the people that was with Ismael saw Joanan, and the leaders of the host that was with him,

14 that they returned to Joanan.

15 But Ismael escaped with eight men and went to the children of Ammon.

16 And Joanan, and all the leaders of the host that were with him, took all the remnant of the people, whom he brought back from Ismael, mighty men in war, and the women, and the other , and the eunuchs, whom they brought back from Gabaon:

17 and they departed, and dwelt in Gaberoch-amaa, that is by Bethleem, to go into Egypt, for fear of the Chaldeans:

18 for they were afraid of them, because Ismael had smitten Godolias, whom the king of Babylon made in the land.

Jeremias 48:12-18 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.