Jeremiah 25:32

KJV

Thus saith the LORD of hosts, Behold, evil shall go forth from nation to nation, and a great whirlwind shall be raised up from the coasts of the earth.

KJV (with Strong's)

Thus saith {H559} the LORD {H3068} of hosts {H6635}, Behold, evil {H7451} shall go forth {H3318} from nation {H1471} to nation {H1471}, and a great {H1419} whirlwind {H5591} shall be raised up {H5782} from the coasts {H3411} of the earth {H776}.

Complete Jewish Bible

Thus says ADONAI-Tzva'ot: "Disaster is spreading from nation to nation, a mighty tempest is being unleashed from the farthest ends of the earth."

Berean Standard Bible

This is what the LORD of Hosts says: “Behold! Disaster is spreading from nation to nation; a mighty storm is rising from the ends of the earth.”

American Standard Version

Thus saith Jehovah of hosts, Behold, evil shall go forth from nation to nation, and a great tempest shall be raised up from the uttermost parts of the earth.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Jeremiah 25:32 delivers a profound prophetic declaration from the LORD of hosts, foretelling a widespread and devastating judgment that will sweep across the nations. This verse encapsulates the climax of a series of oracles concerning God's impending wrath, signifying a global catastrophe that originates from divine decree and will manifest with the irresistible force of a great whirlwind, affecting even the remotest parts of the earth. It underscores God's absolute sovereignty over all peoples and His unwavering commitment to justice, revealing a divine reckoning that extends far beyond Judah to encompass the entire known world.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Jeremiah 25 stands as a pivotal chapter within the book of Jeremiah, marking a significant shift from prophecies primarily directed at Judah to a broader, universal scope of judgment. Preceding this verse, Jeremiah has detailed Judah's seventy years of Babylonian captivity due to their persistent idolatry and disobedience, as prophesied in [Jeremiah 25:1-11](/jeremiah/25-1-11 "Jeremiah 25:1-11 - Prophecy of Seventy Years Captivity"). The "cup of wrath" prophecy, beginning in [Jeremiah 25:15](/jeremiah/25-15 "Jeremiah 25:15 - The Cup of God's Wrath"), describes God commanding Jeremiah to make all nations drink from this cup, signifying their impending destruction. Verse 32 specifically introduces the far-reaching and overwhelming nature of this judgment, acting as a summary statement of the global devastation that will ensue, extending beyond Judah to all the kingdoms of the earth. It is part of a larger oracle that culminates in the destruction of Babylon itself, demonstrating God's ultimate control over all empires and their destinies.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The prophecy in Jeremiah 25 is generally dated to the fourth year of Jehoiakim, king of Judah (circa 605 BC), a critical juncture in the ancient Near East. This period saw the rapid ascendancy of the Neo-Babylonian Empire under Nebuchadnezzar, which had just decisively defeated Egypt at the Battle of Carchemish. Judah, caught between these two superpowers, had aligned itself with Egypt, a decision Jeremiah consistently warned against. The cultural understanding of divine judgment often involved the use of conquering armies as instruments of God's wrath, a concept deeply embedded in Israelite prophetic tradition. The "whirlwind" imagery would have resonated powerfully with the destructive force of desert storms, a familiar and terrifying natural phenomenon in the region, making the metaphor of God's judgment vivid and immediate to Jeremiah's audience.
* **Key Themes:** Jeremiah 25:32 powerfully contributes to several overarching themes found throughout the book of Jeremiah and the Old Testament. Firstly, it highlights **Divine Sovereignty**, asserting God's absolute authority not only over His covenant people but over all nations and the course of human history. He is the "LORD of hosts," capable of orchestrating global events to fulfill His purposes. Secondly, the verse emphasizes **Universal Judgment**, demonstrating that God's justice is not limited to Israel but extends to all who rebel against His moral order. This foreshadows the broader biblical truth that all humanity is accountable to God, as articulated in [Romans 3:23](/romans/3-23 "Romans 3:23 - All Have Sinned"). Thirdly, the imagery of the "whirlwind" underscores the **Irresistibility of God's Wrath** and the futility of human resistance against His decreed judgments. Finally, it reinforces the theme of **Prophetic Warning and Fulfillment**, where God's words spoken through His prophets are not idle threats but certainties that will come to pass, urging repentance before the inevitable judgment, as seen in [Ezekiel 33:11](/ezekiel/33-11 "Ezekiel 33:11 - God Desires Repentance, Not Death").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **LORD of hosts (Hebrew, _Yᵉhôvâh tsâbâʼ'_):** This profound divine title combines H3068 (_Yᵉhôvâh_), signifying "the self-Existent or Eternal," the Jewish national name of God, with H6635 (_tsâbâʼ_), meaning "a mass of persons (or figuratively, things), especially reg. organized for war (an army)." Together, "LORD of hosts" emphasizes God's supreme authority and power as the commander of heavenly armies and earthly forces. It portrays Him as the sovereign orchestrator of global events, capable of raising up and casting down nations to bring about His decreed judgments. The title reinforces that the impending "evil" is not random chaos but a deliberate, organized act of divine justice.
* **evil (Hebrew, _raʻ'_):** (H7451) Derived from a root meaning "bad" or "to break," this word encompasses both moral evil (wickedness, naughtiness) and the calamitous consequences of evil, such as adversity, affliction, and disaster. In Jeremiah 25:32, while rooted in the moral evil and rebellion of nations, "evil" primarily refers to the devastating judgment and calamity that will be unleashed upon them. It signifies the destructive effects of God's wrath, manifesting as widespread suffering, war, and societal collapse, rather than merely a moral failing.
* **whirlwind (Hebrew, _çaʻar'_):** (H5591) This term, which can also appear as _sᵉʻârâ_ (feminine), describes a hurricane, storm, or tempest. In biblical literature, the whirlwind frequently serves as a powerful metaphor for God's destructive judgment, His awe-inspiring presence, or the chaotic forces He unleashes. Here, it vividly portrays the overwhelming, sudden, and devastating power of the impending judgment, implying a force that no nation can withstand and that leaves widespread devastation in its wake. It suggests a rapid, uncontrollable, and all-encompassing divine intervention.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Thus saith the LORD of hosts,"**: This opening phrase functions as a classic divine oracle formula, asserting the absolute authority and divine origin of the prophecy. It establishes that the subsequent declaration is not Jeremiah's personal opinion or a human conjecture, but a direct, undeniable word from God Himself—specifically from Yahweh, the sovereign commander of all creation and heavenly armies. This lends immense weight, certainty, and solemnity to the pronouncement, demanding attention and obedience.
* **"Behold, evil shall go forth from nation to nation,"**: This clause declares the widespread, pervasive, and contagious nature of the impending judgment. The "evil" here refers to calamity, disaster, and the destructive consequences of God's wrath, which will not be confined to a single land or people but will spread relentlessly across various nations. It signifies a chain reaction of destruction, indicating a global scope of divine retribution for widespread sin and rebellion, impacting one kingdom after another.
* **"and a great whirlwind shall be raised up from the coasts of the earth."**: This powerful imagery describes the irresistible and destructive force of God's judgment. The "great whirlwind" symbolizes a sudden, chaotic, and overwhelming force (likely conquering armies acting as God's instruments, such as the Babylonians) that will sweep across the entire known world, reaching its "coasts" or furthest extremities. The phrase "shall be raised up" implies divine initiation and orchestration, emphasizing that this global catastrophe is not random or accidental but a deliberate act of God's righteous anger and sovereign will.

#### Literary Devices
Jeremiah 25:32 employs several potent literary devices to convey its message of impending global judgment with striking force. The most prominent is **Metaphor**, specifically the comparison of God's judgment to "a great whirlwind." A whirlwind is a force of nature that is sudden, chaotic, and leaves widespread devastation in its wake, powerfully symbolizing the overwhelming and destructive power of God's wrath that no nation can withstand. The phrase "evil shall go forth from nation to nation" uses **Personification** by attributing agency to "evil," suggesting it actively "goes forth" or spreads, emphasizing its pervasive and relentless nature. The phrase "from the coasts of the earth" employs **Hyperbole** or **Merism** to convey the idea of the judgment's universal reach, implying it will affect every part of the known world, from its literal borders to its furthest extremities. Lastly, the opening "Thus saith the LORD of hosts" is a classic example of a **Divine Oracle Formula**, a common prophetic convention that underscores the divine origin and authoritative nature of the message, leaving no doubt that this is God's own declaration.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Jeremiah 25:32 is a profound theological statement on God's universal sovereignty and His unwavering commitment to justice. It reveals that God's authority extends far beyond Israel, encompassing all nations and holding them accountable for their actions. The impending "evil" and "whirlwind" are not random occurrences but instruments of divine judgment, demonstrating that God is actively involved in the affairs of humanity, orchestrating historical events to fulfill His righteous purposes. This prophecy serves as a stark reminder that no nation or individual is exempt from God's moral standards or His eventual reckoning. It foreshadows the ultimate "Day of the Lord" when all unrighteousness will be judged, and God's perfect justice will be fully established across the earth, a truth echoed throughout the prophetic literature.

* [Isaiah 24:1-3](/isaiah/24-1-3 "Isaiah 24:1-3 - The Earth Laid Waste")
* [Zephaniah 1:2-3](/zephaniah/1-2-3 "Zephaniah 1:2-3 - God Will Utterly Sweep Away Everything")
* [Revelation 19:11-16](/revelation/19-11-16 "Revelation 19:11-16 - The Rider on the White Horse and Final Judgment")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Jeremiah 25:32, though a prophecy of ancient judgment, holds timeless truths for contemporary reflection and application. It calls us to recognize God's absolute sovereignty over all nations and historical events. In a world often characterized by political instability, international conflict, and widespread moral decay, this verse reminds us that God remains firmly in control, and His justice will ultimately prevail. It challenges us to consider the seriousness of sin, both individually and corporately, and the inevitable consequences of rebellion against God's righteous standards. For believers, it offers a profound sense of security: even amidst global turmoil and apparent chaos, the "LORD of hosts" is orchestrating His purposes. This should inspire both a healthy fear of God and a deep trust in His ultimate plan, prompting us to live righteously and advocate for justice in our spheres of influence, knowing that all nations are accountable to Him. It compels us to examine our own lives and societies, asking if we are living in alignment with His will or if we are contributing to the "evil" that invites divine reckoning.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does the imagery of a "great whirlwind" challenge your perception of God's power and justice in the world today?**
* **In what ways might our own nation or society be "going forth from nation to nation" in ways that invite divine judgment, whether through moral decay or unjust actions?**
* **How does recognizing God as the "LORD of hosts" impact your trust in His control amidst global crises and uncertainties, and how does it shape your prayers?**
* **What specific actions can you take to align your life and influence with God's righteous standards, in light of His universal accountability and impending justice?**

### FAQ
**What does "evil shall go forth from nation to nation" specifically refer to?**

Answer: In Jeremiah 25:32, "evil" (Hebrew: *ra’*) primarily refers to calamity, disaster, and the devastating consequences of divine judgment. It signifies a widespread plague of destruction, likely executed through conquering armies (specifically the Babylonians, who served as God's instrument), that will not be confined to one nation but will spread from one kingdom to another. This highlights the interconnectedness of nations in their sin and their shared fate under God's universal judgment, as described in the broader context of [Jeremiah 25:15-29](/jeremiah/25-15-29 "Jeremiah 25:15-29 - The Cup of Wrath for All Nations").

**What is the symbolic meaning of the "great whirlwind"?**

Answer: The "great whirlwind" (Hebrew: *sa'ar*) is a powerful **metaphor** for the overwhelming, sudden, and irresistible force of God's judgment. In biblical imagery, whirlwinds often symbolize divine power, wrath, and the chaotic destruction that accompanies God's intervention in human affairs (e.g., [Nahum 1:3](/nahum/1-3 "Nahum 1:3 - The LORD's Way in the Whirlwind")). Here, it represents the devastating military campaigns and societal upheaval that will sweep across the earth, leaving widespread destruction in their wake, all orchestrated by the "LORD of hosts" as an instrument of His righteous anger.

**Is this prophecy limited to ancient history, or does it have relevance for today?**

Answer: While Jeremiah 25:32 had a specific historical fulfillment in the Babylonian conquests and subsequent judgments on surrounding nations, its underlying theological principles have enduring relevance. It speaks to God's unchanging character as a righteous judge, His sovereignty over all nations, and the universal accountability of humanity. It serves as a timeless warning that sin and rebellion against God's moral order will ultimately lead to judgment. Therefore, it reminds us that God remains sovereign over global events and that His justice will ultimately prevail, whether through historical consequences or in the ultimate "Day of the Lord" when all unrighteousness will be confronted, as prophesied in [2 Peter 3:10](/2_peter/3-10 "2 Peter 3:10 - The Day of the Lord Will Come").

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Jeremiah 25:32, with its stark prophecy of universal judgment and the "great whirlwind" of divine wrath, finds its ultimate Christ-centered fulfillment not merely in historical events but profoundly in the person and redemptive work of Jesus Christ. While the Old Testament prophecies often describe God's judgment as a sweeping force against rebellious nations, the New Testament reveals that the full weight of God's wrath against human sin was poured out upon Christ on the cross. He became the [Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world](/john/1-29 "John 1:29 - Jesus, the Lamb of God"), bearing the judgment that humanity deserved, thereby offering a way of escape from the "whirlwind" of divine condemnation for all who believe ([Romans 5:9](/romans/5-9 "Romans 5:9 - Delivered from Wrath Through Christ")). Furthermore, the "coasts of the earth" that experience judgment in Jeremiah's prophecy also become the very "coasts" to which the good news of salvation is carried through Christ's Great Commission, as His followers are sent to be His witnesses to the [ends of the earth](/acts/1-8 "Acts 1:8 - Witnesses to the Ends of the Earth"). Ultimately, the "LORD of hosts" who sends forth evil in judgment is the same God who, in Christ, offers reconciliation and peace, and who will one day return not only as judge but as the triumphant King to establish His eternal kingdom, bringing final justice and lasting righteousness to all the earth ([Revelation 19:11](/revelation/19-11 "Revelation 19:11 - Christ's Return as Judge and King")).

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 23:19

Behold, a whirlwind of the LORD is gone forth in fury, even a grievous whirlwind: it shall fall grievously upon the head of the wicked.

Isaiah 34:2

For the indignation of the LORD [is] upon all nations, and [his] fury upon all their armies: he hath utterly destroyed them, he hath delivered them to the slaughter.

2 Chronicles 15:6

And nation was destroyed of nation, and city of city: for God did vex them with all adversity.

Isaiah 30:30

And the LORD shall cause his glorious voice to be heard, and shall shew the lighting down of his arm, with the indignation of [his] anger, and [with] the flame of a devouring fire, [with] scattering, and tempest, and hailstones.

Jeremiah 30:23

Behold, the whirlwind of the LORD goeth forth with fury, a continuing whirlwind: it shall fall with pain upon the head of the wicked.

Luke 21:10

Then said he unto them, Nation shall rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom:

Isaiah 66:18

For I [know] their works and their thoughts: it shall come, that I will gather all nations and tongues; and they shall come, and see my glory.