Jeremiah 1:15

KJV

For, lo, I will call all the families of the kingdoms of the north, saith the LORD; and they shall come, and they shall set every one his throne at the entering of the gates of Jerusalem, and against all the walls thereof round about, and against all the cities of Judah.

KJV (with Strong's)

For, lo, I will call {H7121} all the families {H4940} of the kingdoms {H4467} of the north {H6828}, saith {H5002} the LORD {H3068}; and they shall come {H935}, and they shall set {H5414} every one {H376} his throne {H3678} at the entering {H6607} of the gates {H8179} of Jerusalem {H3389}, and against all the walls {H2346} thereof round about {H5439}, and against all the cities {H5892} of Judah {H3063}.

Complete Jewish Bible

because I will summon all the families in the kingdoms of the north," says ADONAI, "and they will come and sit, each one, on his throne at the entrance to the gates of Yerushalayim, opposite its walls, all the way around, and opposite all the cities of Y'hudah.

Berean Standard Bible

For I am about to summon all the clans and kingdoms of the north,” declares the LORD. “Their kings will come and set up their thrones at the entrance of the gates of Jerusalem. They will attack all her surrounding walls and all the other cities of Judah.

American Standard Version

For, lo, I will call all the families of the kingdoms of the north, saith Jehovah; and they shall come, and they shall set every one his throne at the entrance of the gates of Jerusalem, and against all the walls thereof round about, and against all the cities of Judah.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Jeremiah 1:15 serves as a stark prophetic declaration of God's impending judgment upon Judah and Jerusalem, revealing His divine orchestration of foreign powers as instruments of His wrath. This verse vividly portrays the comprehensive nature of the coming invasion from the north, detailing how these "families of the kingdoms" will not only besiege Jerusalem but establish their authority at its very gates, extending their conquest to all the cities of Judah, signaling a complete overthrow of the nation's sovereignty and a profound period of devastation.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse immediately follows the powerful imagery of the "boiling pot" in [Jeremiah 1:13-14](/jeremiah/1-13 "Jeremiah 1:13-14 - The Vision of the Boiling Pot"), which depicts an impending disaster pouring forth from the north onto all the inhabitants of the land. Jeremiah 1:15 provides the concrete identification of the agents of this disaster—the "families of the kingdoms of the north"—and specifies their target: Jerusalem and all the cities of Judah. It solidifies the abstract vision into a terrifyingly specific prophecy of invasion and subjugation, directly linking God's judgment to a tangible geopolitical threat. This declaration is a direct consequence of Judah's unfaithfulness, as outlined in the preceding verses concerning Jeremiah's call to prophesy against the wickedness of the land (e.g., [Jeremiah 1:5-10](/jeremiah/1-5 "Jeremiah 1:5-10 - Jeremiah's Prophetic Call")).
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** Jeremiah's prophetic ministry began during the reign of King Josiah (circa 627 BC), a period marked by a significant religious reform. However, beneath this surface revival, deep-seated idolatry and spiritual rebellion persisted among the people and leaders, particularly after Josiah's death. The "kingdoms of the north" primarily refer to the rising Neo-Babylonian Empire. At this time, the Assyrian Empire, which had long dominated the Near East, was in decline, creating a power vacuum. Babylon, under Nebuchadnezzar, was rapidly ascending, eventually conquering Assyria (e.g., the fall of Nineveh in 612 BC) and then setting its sights on the remaining regional powers, including Judah. Culturally, the "gates of Jerusalem" were not just entry points but vital public spaces where legal judgments were rendered, commercial transactions occurred, and elders and kings held court. To "set every one his throne at the entering of the gates" was a profound symbolic act, signifying not merely military victory but the complete overthrow of the city's self-governance, justice system, and sovereignty.
* **Key Themes:** Jeremiah 1:15 powerfully underscores several major themes prevalent throughout the book of Jeremiah. Foremost is **Divine Sovereignty in Judgment**, where God explicitly declares, "saith the LORD," emphasizing that He is the ultimate orchestrator of history, even using pagan nations like Babylon as His instruments of wrath against His disobedient people. This theme is echoed elsewhere in Scripture, such as when God uses Assyria as "the rod of my anger" in [Isaiah 10:5-6](/isaiah/10-5 "Isaiah 10:5-6 - God Uses Assyria as His Rod"). Another key theme is the **Certainty of Punishment** for covenant unfaithfulness. The declarative "I will call" and the subsequent "they shall come, and they shall set" leave no doubt about the inevitability of the prophesied invasion and subjugation. Finally, the verse highlights the **Comprehensive Nature of Devastation**, extending the judgment beyond Jerusalem's symbolic gates and walls to "all the cities of Judah," signifying a widespread and overwhelming military campaign that would impact the entire nation, leading to the eventual Babylonian exile (e.g., [Jeremiah 39:1-10](/jeremiah/39-1 "Jeremiah 39:1-10 - The Fall of Jerusalem")).

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **call (Hebrew, _qârâʼ'_):** (H7121) A primitive root meaning "to call out to," often implying to address by name, summon, or invite. In this context, it signifies God's active, intentional summoning of these northern kingdoms. It's not a passive allowance but a deliberate divine command, highlighting His absolute control over nations and their movements.
* **throne (Hebrew, _kiççêʼ'_):** (H3678) Properly, "covered," referring to a seat or stool, specifically a throne (as canopied). The act of setting one's throne implies establishing authority, dominion, and judicial power. For foreign invaders to set their thrones at Jerusalem's gates signifies the complete usurpation of Judah's political and legal sovereignty.
* **gates (Hebrew, _shaʻar'_):** (H8179) An opening, specifically a door or gate, often referring to a city gate. In ancient Near Eastern culture, city gates were the nexus of public life, where legal judgments were passed, business was conducted, and leaders held court. Their capture and the establishment of enemy "thrones" there symbolize the utter collapse of the city's defense, justice, and self-rule.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"For, lo, I will call all the families of the kingdoms of the north, saith the LORD;":** This opening clause immediately establishes the divine origin and certainty of the prophecy. The "families of the kingdoms of the north" refers to the various tribal and national groups comprising the Neo-Babylonian Empire, which was emerging as the dominant power. The phrase "saith the LORD" (Hebrew: _ne'um YHWH_) is a powerful prophetic formula, underscoring that this is not Jeremiah's personal prediction but a direct, authoritative word from the sovereign God, Yahweh. He is actively summoning these foreign entities to fulfill His purpose.
* **"and they shall come, and they shall set every one his throne at the entering of the gates of Jerusalem,":** This clause details the invaders' actions and their symbolic significance. "They shall come" indicates the inevitability of their arrival. The powerful image of "setting every one his throne at the entering of the gates of Jerusalem" conveys total conquest and the imposition of foreign rule. As the city gates were the seat of justice, authority, and defense, this act represents the complete dismantling of Judah's self-governance and the public humiliation of its leadership, with foreign powers now dictating law and order in the very heart of the capital.
* **"and against all the walls thereof round about, and against all the cities of Judah.":** This final clause expands the scope of the judgment beyond Jerusalem's gates. The invasion will not be limited to the capital but will encompass "all the walls thereof round about," indicating a comprehensive siege and breach of fortifications, and will extend to "all the cities of Judah." This signifies a widespread and devastating military campaign that will affect the entire nation, leaving no part untouched by the impending judgment.

#### Literary Devices
Jeremiah 1:15 is rich in **Symbolism**. The "kingdoms of the north" symbolize the instrument of God's judgment, specifically the Neo-Babylonian Empire, which would indeed come from that direction. The act of setting "thrones at the entering of the gates of Jerusalem" is highly symbolic, representing the complete overthrow of Judah's sovereignty, its legal and judicial systems, and its national identity. It is an image of profound **Humiliation** and subjugation, where the very seats of native authority are usurped by foreign invaders. The repeated emphasis on "all the families," "every one his throne," "all the walls," and "all the cities" employs **Hyperbole** or **Emphasis** to underscore the comprehensive and overwhelming nature of the impending devastation, leaving no doubt about the totality of the judgment. The entire verse functions as a **Divine Oracle**, a direct pronouncement from God ("saith the LORD"), lending it ultimate authority and certainty.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Jeremiah 1:15 profoundly illustrates God's absolute sovereignty over human history and the nations. It reveals that even seemingly independent geopolitical movements are ultimately under the control of Yahweh, who raises up and casts down kingdoms according to His righteous purposes. This verse underscores the severe consequences of covenant unfaithfulness, demonstrating that God's patience has limits and His warnings are not idle threats. The judgment, though delivered through human agents, is fundamentally divine, serving as a disciplinary act to call His people back to Himself or to purify a remnant. It also highlights the theme of divine justice, where the Lord uses the very nations that Judah had often sought alliances with (rather than trusting God) as instruments of their chastisement. This serves as a timeless reminder that true security and prosperity lie in obedience and faithfulness to God, not in political maneuvering or idolatrous practices.

* [Isaiah 10:5-6](/isaiah/10-5 "Isaiah 10:5-6 - God's Use of Assyria as a Rod of Anger")
* [Habakkuk 1:5-6](/habakkuk/1-5 "Habakkuk 1:5-6 - God Raising Up the Chaldeans")
* [Deuteronomy 28:49-50](/deuteronomy/28-49 "Deuteronomy 28:49-50 - Prophecy of a Fierce Nation from Afar")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Jeremiah 1:15 calls us to a sober reflection on the nature of God's sovereignty, justice, and the gravity of disobedience. In a world often perceived as chaotic or driven solely by human ambition, this verse reminds us that God remains firmly on His throne, orchestrating even the rise and fall of nations to accomplish His divine will. For us today, it serves as a powerful warning: just as ancient Judah faced consequences for persistent rebellion against God's covenant, so too do individuals and nations face the ramifications of turning away from His truth. This should prompt us to examine our own lives and societies, asking if we are truly living in faithful obedience to God's revealed will. Furthermore, it encourages a posture of trust, knowing that even amidst global turmoil or personal trials, God is not absent or powerless, but actively working, often through unexpected means, to bring about His purposes. This understanding can bring peace amidst uncertainty, knowing that the God who "calls" nations is the same God who cares for His people and ultimately works all things for good for those who love Him and are called according to His purpose (see [Romans 8:28](/romans/8-28 "Romans 8:28 - God Works All Things for Good")).

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does the concept of God "calling" nations to execute His judgment challenge or affirm your understanding of divine sovereignty in world events today?**
* **What "gates" or areas of authority in your own life or community might be vulnerable to being "overthrown" if not submitted to God's righteous rule?**
* **In what ways might God be speaking warnings to us today, and how can we ensure we are truly heeding them, rather than persisting in disobedience?**
* **How can the certainty of God's judgment on unfaithfulness motivate us toward greater faithfulness and reliance on Him?**

### FAQ
**Who are the "families of the kingdoms of the north" mentioned in this verse?**

Answer: While the verse does not name them explicitly, the historical context and subsequent events in Jeremiah's prophecy clearly identify the "kingdoms of the north" as the burgeoning Neo-Babylonian Empire, led by King Nebuchadnezzar. This powerful empire rose to prominence after the decline of Assyria and would become the primary instrument of God's judgment against Judah, ultimately leading to the destruction of Jerusalem and the Babylonian exile. The phrase "families of the kingdoms" likely refers to the various allied nations and tribal groups that comprised the vast Babylonian military force.

**What is the significance of the invaders setting "their throne at the entering of the gates of Jerusalem"?**

Answer: In ancient Near Eastern cities, the city gates were far more than mere entrances. They were the central hub of civic life, serving as places for legal proceedings, judicial rulings, commercial transactions, and public assemblies. Elders, judges, and kings would hold court there. Therefore, for invaders to "set every one his throne at the entering of the gates of Jerusalem" was a deeply symbolic act signifying not just military conquest, but the complete overthrow of Judah's sovereignty, its legal system, and its self-governance. It represented a profound act of public humiliation and the establishment of foreign authority over every aspect of Jerusalem's life, demonstrating that the city's defenses and its very identity were utterly subjugated. This imagery is a powerful depiction of total defeat and the imposition of foreign rule, as seen in the eventual [fall of Jerusalem to Babylon](/jeremiah/52 "Jeremiah 52 - The Fall of Jerusalem and Exile").

**Does this verse imply that God directly causes evil or uses wicked nations for His purposes?**

Answer: This verse, along with many others in Scripture (e.g., [Isaiah 10:5-7](/isaiah/10-5 "Isaiah 10:5-7 - Assyria as God's Instrument")), affirms God's absolute sovereignty over all nations and human history. It teaches that God can and does use nations, even those that are wicked or do not acknowledge Him, as instruments to accomplish His divine purposes, including judgment. This does not mean God condones their wickedness or is the author of evil. Rather, He is able to providentially direct their actions, which may stem from their own sinful desires, to serve His ultimate righteous ends. In this case, Babylon's ambition and military might were harnessed by God to bring about His just judgment on Judah for its persistent idolatry and rebellion, while Babylon itself would later face its own judgment for its pride and cruelty (e.g., [Jeremiah 50-51](/jeremiah/50 "Jeremiah 50-51 - Prophecy Against Babylon")).

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Jeremiah 1:15, with its stark prophecy of judgment from the north, finds its ultimate Christ-centered fulfillment not in the physical destruction of Jerusalem as an end in itself, but in the redemptive work of Jesus Christ, who perfectly embodies God's justice and mercy. While the "kingdoms of the north" brought temporal judgment upon unfaithful Judah, Christ's coming ushered in a spiritual judgment, revealing the true nature of sin and the need for salvation. He is the ultimate King, whose "throne" is not set at the gates of a physical city for judgment, but established eternally in heaven, from which He exercises universal dominion (e.g., [Matthew 28:18](/matthew/28-18 "Matthew 28:18 - All Authority Given to Jesus")). The judgment prophesied in Jeremiah foreshadows the greater judgment that Christ, as the [Son of Man](/john/5-27 "John 5:27 - Jesus as Judge"), will execute at the end of time, where every knee will bow before His throne (e.g., [Philippians 2:9-11](/philippians/2-9 "Philippians 2:9-11 - Every Knee Shall Bow")). However, for those who believe, Christ's coming also represents the ultimate deliverance from the spiritual "kingdoms of the north"—the powers of sin and death. Through His atoning sacrifice on the cross, Jesus bore the judgment that was due to humanity, offering a new covenant where forgiveness and reconciliation are possible (e.g., [Hebrews 8:6-13](/hebrews/8-6 "Hebrews 8:6-13 - The New Covenant")). Thus, the terrifying imagery of foreign thrones at Jerusalem's gates is ultimately superseded by the glorious reality of Christ's eternal, saving reign, where His people find refuge and true justice under His perfect and merciful rule (e.g., [Revelation 22:3](/revelation/22-3 "Revelation 22:3 - The Throne of God and the Lamb")).

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Jeremiah 4:16

Make ye mention to the nations; behold, publish against Jerusalem, [that] watchers come from a far country, and give out their voice against the cities of Judah.

Jeremiah 25:9

Behold, I will send and take all the families of the north, saith the LORD, and Nebuchadrezzar the king of Babylon, my servant, and will bring them against this land, and against the inhabitants thereof, and against all these nations round about, and will utterly destroy them, and make them an astonishment, and an hissing, and perpetual desolations.

Jeremiah 9:11

And I will make Jerusalem heaps, [and] a den of dragons; and I will make the cities of Judah desolate, without an inhabitant.

Jeremiah 43:10

And say unto them, Thus saith the LORD of hosts, the God of Israel; Behold, I will send and take Nebuchadrezzar the king of Babylon, my servant, and will set his throne upon these stones that I have hid; and he shall spread his royal pavilion over them.

Jeremiah 39:3

And all the princes of the king of Babylon came in, and sat in the middle gate, [even] Nergalsharezer, Samgarnebo, Sarsechim, Rabsaris, Nergalsharezer, Rabmag, with all the residue of the princes of the king of Babylon.

Isaiah 22:7

And it shall come to pass, [that] thy choicest valleys shall be full of chariots, and the horsemen shall set themselves in array at the gate.

Jeremiah 10:25

Pour out thy fury upon the heathen that know thee not, and upon the families that call not on thy name: for they have eaten up Jacob, and devoured him, and consumed him, and have made his habitation desolate.