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Jeremiah 47

This chapter contains a prophecy against the Philistines, longtime enemies of Israel. Jeremiah predicts a destructive invasion from the north that will ravage the Philistine cities and leave the people helpless. The prophecy emphasizes God’s authority over all nations, showing that no people or alliance can withstand His judgments.

Jeremiah 47:1 (NKJV)
1 The word of the Lord that came to Jeremiah the prophet against the Philistines, before Pharaoh attacked Gaza.

This prophecy is directed toward the Philistines, specifically timed before an attack on Gaza by the Egyptian Pharaoh. It serves as a prelude to the coming judgment, highlighting that God’s word precedes and shapes the events of history.

Jeremiah 47:2 (NKJV)
2 Thus says the Lord: “Behold, waters rise out of the north, And shall be an overflowing flood; They shall overflow the land and all that is in it, The city and those who dwell within; Then the men shall cry, And all the inhabitants of the land shall wail.”

The invading army from the north, likely Babylon, is described as a flood, symbolizing an unstoppable and overwhelming force. This “flood” will devastate the entire land, causing fear and sorrow among the people. The imagery of water covering the land underscores the scale and power of the coming invasion.

Jeremiah 47:3 (NKJV)
3 At the noise of the stamping hooves of his strong horses, At the rushing of his chariots, At the rumbling of his wheels, The fathers will not look back for their children, Lacking courage,

The sounds of the advancing army—horses, chariots, and rumbling wheels—will terrify the people to such an extent that even fathers will abandon their children in fear. This verse captures the intense dread and helplessness of those facing this overwhelming force, emphasizing the chaos and fear that accompany war.

Jeremiah 47:4 (NKJV)
4 Because of the day that comes to plunder all the Philistines, To cut off from Tyre and Sidon every helper who remains; For the Lord shall plunder the Philistines, The remnant of the country of Caphtor.

This day of judgment will impact the Philistines and extend to their allies, including the cities of Tyre and Sidon. God Himself declares this plundering, demonstrating His ultimate authority. The reference to Caphtor, possibly the origin of the Philistines, signifies a complete and unavoidable judgment upon their remnant.

Jeremiah 47:5 (NKJV)
5 Baldness has come upon Gaza, Ashkelon is cut off With the remnant of their valley. How long will you cut yourself?

The people of Gaza and Ashkelon, major Philistine cities, are depicted in mourning, symbolized by baldness and self-harm. These signs of despair show the depth of their sorrow as they face devastation. The question of how long this suffering will last emphasizes the hopelessness of their situation.

Jeremiah 47:6 (NKJV)
6 “O you sword of the Lord, How long until you are quiet? Put yourself up into your scabbard, Rest and be still!”

Jeremiah’s plea for the Lord’s “sword” to be sheathed reflects his compassion, even for Israel’s enemies, and his desire for the end of violence. This metaphor for God’s judgment illustrates the prophet’s wish for peace and an end to the destruction facing the Philistines.

Jeremiah 47:7 (NKJV)
7 How can it be quiet, Seeing the Lord has given it a charge Against Ashkelon and against the seashore? There He has appointed it.”

The response shows that the judgment cannot cease until God’s command is fully executed. The focus on Ashkelon and the coast underscores that this destruction is divinely appointed and unavoidable. This emphasizes the certainty and finality of God’s decree, reminding all nations of His sovereign authority.

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