Jeremiah 4:7

KJV

The lion is come up from his thicket, and the destroyer of the Gentiles is on his way; he is gone forth from his place to make thy land desolate; [and] thy cities shall be laid waste, without an inhabitant.

KJV (with Strong's)

The lion {H738} is come up {H5927} from his thicket {H5441}, and the destroyer {H7843} of the Gentiles {H1471} is on his way {H5265}; he is gone forth {H3318} from his place {H4725} to make {H7760} thy land {H776} desolate {H8047}; and thy cities {H5892} shall be laid waste {H5327}, without an inhabitant {H3427}.

Complete Jewish Bible

A lion has risen from his lair, a destroyer of nations has set out, left his own place to ruin your land, to demolish and depopulate your cities."

Berean Standard Bible

A lion has gone up from his thicket, and a destroyer of nations has set out. He has left his lair to lay waste your land. Your cities will be reduced to ruins and lie uninhabited.

American Standard Version

A lion is gone up from his thicket, and a destroyer of nations; he is on his way, he is gone forth from his place, to make thy land desolate, that thy cities be laid waste, without inhabitant.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Jeremiah 4:7 delivers a chilling prophetic warning of imminent and devastating judgment upon the kingdom of Judah. Through the vivid metaphor of a ferocious lion emerging from its lair, the prophet announces the swift advance of a powerful, destructive force—identified as the Babylonian empire—that will lay waste to the land, reduce its cities to ruin, and leave them utterly uninhabited as a consequence of Judah's persistent rebellion and idolatry against God.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Jeremiah 4:7 is situated within a series of urgent warnings and lamentations that characterize the early chapters of Jeremiah's prophetic ministry (chapters 1-6). Following God's earnest pleas for Judah to repent and return to Him in [Jeremiah 3](/jeremiah/3 "Jeremiah 3 - Judah's Unfaithfulness and Call to Repentance"), which were largely unheeded, [Jeremiah 4](/jeremiah/4 "Jeremiah 4 - Impending Judgment and Call to Repentance") shifts to describing the certain and terrifying consequences of their unfaithfulness. The preceding verses in chapter 4 depict the land's desolation and the people's terror, while the subsequent verses continue to detail the relentless advance of the northern enemy, culminating in a profound lament over the destruction. This verse functions as a pivotal declaration, identifying the specific agent of God's judgment and emphasizing its unstoppable nature, thereby reinforcing the gravity of the call to repentance that Judah had spurned.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The historical backdrop for Jeremiah's prophecy is the late 7th and early 6th centuries BCE, a tumultuous period for Judah. The Assyrian Empire, which had long dominated the Near East, was in decline, and new powers were rising, particularly Babylon. Judah, under kings like Jehoiakim, was deeply entrenched in idolatry, social injustice, and a false sense of security, believing that the Temple in Jerusalem offered inviolable protection (cf. [Jeremiah 7:4](/jeremiah/7-4 "Jeremiah 7:4 - The Temple Sermon")). Jeremiah's message directly confronts this spiritual complacency. The "lion" and "destroyer of the Gentiles" in this verse is widely understood to be Nebuchadnezzar, the king of Babylon, whose empire was rapidly expanding and would eventually conquer Judah, destroy Jerusalem, and lead its people into exile. The imagery of a lion emerging from a "thicket" evokes the sudden, predatory nature of ancient warfare, where armies would sweep in unexpectedly from less-traveled routes, devastating everything in their path.
* **Key Themes:** Jeremiah 4:7 powerfully contributes to several overarching themes in the book of Jeremiah and broader biblical theology. It underscores the theme of **Divine Judgment**, demonstrating God's unwavering justice against covenant infidelity and His willingness to use even pagan nations as instruments of His righteous wrath. The vivid portrayal of the "lion" and "destroyer" highlights the **Imminence and Certainty of Destruction**, conveying that the threat is not distant but actively advancing, bringing about the inevitable consequences of Judah's sin (cf. [Jeremiah 6:19](/jeremiah/6-19 "Jeremiah 6:19 - Consequences of Not Heeding God's Law")). Furthermore, the verse introduces the theme of **Desolation and Exile**, explicitly foretelling the complete ruin of the land and its cities, which would culminate in the Babylonian captivity, a major turning point in Israelite history. This serves as a stark reminder of the severe repercussions of persistent disobedience to God's covenant commands, as outlined in passages like [Deuteronomy 28](/deuteronomy/28 "Deuteronomy 28 - Blessings and Curses").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **lion (Hebrew, _ʼărîy'_):** (H738) This term refers to a lion, often used in biblical literature to symbolize strength, ferocity, and destructive power. In this context, it is a powerful metaphor for the invading Babylonian army and its king, Nebuchadnezzar, emphasizing their predatory nature, suddenness of attack, and overwhelming might, much like a lion emerging from its hidden lair to ambush its prey.
* **destroyer (Hebrew, _shâchath'_):** (H7843) Derived from a primitive root meaning "to decay" or "to ruin," this word signifies one who causes utter devastation, corruption, or spoilage. The "destroyer" is the active agent of ruin, indicating that the invading force will not merely conquer but will meticulously lay waste, leaving widespread desolation in its wake.
* **without an inhabitant (Hebrew, _yâshab'_):** (H3427) While the root _yâshab_ primarily means "to sit down," "to dwell," or "to remain," its negation in this context ("without an inhabitant") conveys a state of complete depopulation. It signifies that the destruction will be so thorough that cities will be emptied of their residents, leading to a profound and lasting desolation, a direct consequence of the judgment.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"The lion is come up from his thicket,"**: This opening clause vividly introduces the agent of destruction. The "lion" is a metaphor for the powerful and ruthless enemy, specifically Nebuchadnezzar and the Babylonian army. The "thicket" (Hebrew _çôbek_) suggests a hidden lair or dense cover, from which the predator emerges suddenly and unexpectedly, emphasizing the swift and unannounced nature of the impending invasion.
* **"and the destroyer of the Gentiles is on his way;"**: This further identifies the "lion" as a universal force of destruction, not limited to Judah. The "destroyer" (Hebrew _shâchath_) underscores the intent and outcome of the invasion: utter ruin. The phrase "of the Gentiles" (Hebrew _gôwy_) indicates that this power has already demonstrated its destructive capacity over other nations, signaling that Judah will be no exception to its sweeping conquest. The phrase "is on his way" (Hebrew _nâçaʻ_) conveys an active, unstoppable movement, highlighting the immediacy and certainty of the threat.
* **"he is gone forth from his place to make thy land desolate;"**: This clause reiterates the origin and purpose of the invading force. "His place" (Hebrew _mâqôwm_) refers to Babylon, from which the army has launched its campaign. The explicit purpose of this advance is "to make thy land desolate" (Hebrew _shammâh_), signifying a state of utter ruin, waste, and astonishment. This is not merely a military occupation but a divine judgment designed to leave the land barren and devastated.
* **"and thy cities shall be laid waste, without an inhabitant."**: This final clause details the specific outcome of the judgment on Judah's urban centers. "Thy cities" (Hebrew _ʻîyr_) emphasizes the widespread destruction across the entire nation. They "shall be laid waste" (Hebrew _nâtsâh_), meaning they will be reduced to ruins. The chilling phrase "without an inhabitant" (Hebrew _yâshab_) signifies complete depopulation, either through death, captivity, or forced flight, leaving the once vibrant urban centers empty and silent, a stark testament to God's severe judgment.

#### Literary Devices
Jeremiah 4:7 is rich with powerful **Imagery**, painting a terrifying picture of an unstoppable invasion. The central device is **Metaphor**, where the "lion" serves as a vivid representation of the Babylonian king, Nebuchadnezzar, and his army. This metaphor effectively conveys the ferocity, predatory nature, and overwhelming power of the invading force, akin to a wild beast emerging from its thicket (a place of concealment) to ambush its prey. The phrase "destroyer of the Gentiles" employs **Hyperbole** to emphasize the widespread and absolute nature of this power's destructive capacity, suggesting its dominion over many nations, not just Judah. The final declaration, "thy cities shall be laid waste, without an inhabitant," uses stark **Foreshadowing** and **Descriptive Language** to convey the utter and complete desolation that awaits Judah, leaving no room for doubt about the severity of the impending judgment. The cumulative effect of these devices is to evoke a sense of terror and inevitability, underscoring the gravity of Judah's unrepentant sin.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Jeremiah 4:7 serves as a profound theological statement on the nature of divine judgment and God's sovereignty over nations. It reveals that God, in His justice, holds His covenant people accountable for their persistent sin and idolatry. The "lion" here is not merely a political or military force but an instrument in the hand of the Almighty, demonstrating that even pagan empires are subject to God's overarching plan and can be raised up to execute His righteous decrees. This passage underscores the principle that disobedience to God's revealed will inevitably leads to severe consequences, often manifested through external pressures and national calamities. It is a stark reminder that God's patience has limits, and His warnings, though often prolonged, will ultimately culminate in judgment if repentance is withheld. The desolation described highlights the seriousness of breaking covenant with the living God and the profound spiritual emptiness that results from forsaking Him.

* [Amos 3:8](/amos/3-8 "Amos 3:8 - The Lion Roars, God Speaks")
* [Deuteronomy 28:49-52](/deuteronomy/28-49-52 "Deuteronomy 28:49-52 - Prophecy of a Fierce Nation")
* [Lamentations 1:1-4](/lamentations/1-1-4 "Lamentations 1:1-4 - The Desolation of Jerusalem")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Jeremiah 4:7, though a prophecy of ancient judgment, carries timeless lessons for believers today. It serves as a potent reminder that God is sovereign over all nations and events, even using seemingly hostile forces to accomplish His purposes, whether in judgment or discipline. For us, this means recognizing that our actions, both individually and corporately, have consequences. Persistent rebellion against God's truth, whether through idolatry (placing anything before God), injustice, or spiritual apathy, invites His righteous displeasure. This verse calls us to a posture of humility and vigilance, urging us to heed God's warnings, which often come through His Word, the conviction of the Holy Spirit, or the circumstances of life. It compels us to examine our own hearts and societies for areas of unrepentance, reminding us that true security is found not in worldly power or false confidence, but in faithful obedience and a deep, genuine relationship with God. The certainty of judgment for unrepentant sin should motivate us to fervent prayer, earnest repentance, and a commitment to living lives that honor God, knowing that He is both a God of immense love and consuming fire.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what ways might we, individually or as a community, be prone to spiritual complacency or idolatry that could invite divine discipline?**
* **How does the imagery of the "lion" and "destroyer" challenge our understanding of God's sovereignty in difficult or seemingly chaotic global events?**
* **What specific "thickets" (hidden dangers or unaddressed sins) in our lives or culture might be allowing destructive forces to gather strength?**

### FAQ
**Who is the "lion" and "destroyer of the Gentiles" in this verse?**

Answer: The "lion" and "destroyer of the Gentiles" is widely understood by biblical scholars to be a metaphorical reference to King Nebuchadnezzar of Babylon and his formidable army. At the time of Jeremiah's prophecy, Babylon was rapidly emerging as the dominant power in the ancient Near East, conquering various nations (the "Gentiles" or "nations") in its path. Nebuchadnezzar's military campaigns were characterized by their swiftness, ferocity, and devastating effectiveness, much like a lion preying on its victims. This imagery powerfully conveys the overwhelming and unstoppable nature of the judgment God was bringing upon Judah through this foreign power, as detailed in historical accounts like [2 Kings 24](/2_kings/24 "2 Kings 24 - Jehoiakim's Rebellion and Nebuchadnezzar's Invasion") and [2 Chronicles 36](/2_chronicles/36 "2 Chronicles 36 - The Fall of Jerusalem").

**What does "without an inhabitant" signify for Judah?**

Answer: The phrase "without an inhabitant" signifies a state of complete and utter desolation and depopulation. It means that the cities of Judah would be so thoroughly destroyed and emptied of their people that no one would be left living in them. This was a direct prophecy of the Babylonian exile, where the majority of Judah's population would either be killed during the sieges and invasions or forcibly deported to Babylon. This outcome, tragically fulfilled as recorded in [Jeremiah 52](/jeremiah/52 "Jeremiah 52 - The Fall of Jerusalem and the Exile"), left the land barren and its once-thriving urban centers in ruins for a significant period, serving as a stark physical manifestation of God's judgment against His unfaithful people, as also lamented in the book of [Lamentations](/lamentations/1 "Lamentations 1 - The Desolation of Jerusalem").

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
While Jeremiah 4:7 vividly portrays God's judgment through an earthly destroyer, it ultimately points to a deeper, Christ-centered fulfillment of both judgment and redemption. The "lion" here is an instrument of God's wrath against sin, foreshadowing the ultimate judgment that will come upon all unrighteousness. Yet, in Christ, we see the paradox of the Lion of Judah ([Revelation 5:5](/revelation/5-5 "Revelation 5:5 - The Lion of Judah")) who is also the Lamb of God ([John 1:29](/john/1-29 "John 1:29 - Jesus, the Lamb of God")). Jesus, the true "destroyer" of sin and death, did not come to lay waste to cities in the same manner, but to dismantle the spiritual strongholds of darkness and to conquer the ultimate enemy, Satan, through His atoning sacrifice on the cross. The desolation prophesied for Judah, leading to exile, prefigures the spiritual alienation and death that sin brings to humanity, from which only Christ can deliver. He experienced the ultimate "desolation" on the cross, crying out in abandonment, so that those who believe in Him might never be left "without an inhabitant" in God's presence. His coming also brings a final, decisive judgment upon the unrepentant ([Matthew 25:31-46](/matthew/25-31-46 "Matthew 25:31-46 - The Judgment of the Nations")), yet for those who turn to Him, He offers a new spiritual land, a heavenly city, and an eternal dwelling where there will be no more desolation or tears ([Revelation 21:1-4](/revelation/21-1-4 "Revelation 21:1-4 - New Heaven and New Earth")). Thus, the terrifying prophecy of Jeremiah 4:7 ultimately magnifies the redemptive work of Christ, who transforms the threat of utter desolation into the promise of abundant, eternal life for all who trust in Him.

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 5:6

Wherefore a lion out of the forest shall slay them, [and] a wolf of the evenings shall spoil them, a leopard shall watch over their cities: every one that goeth out thence shall be torn in pieces: because their transgressions are many, [and] their backslidings are increased.

Isaiah 1:7

Your country [is] desolate, your cities [are] burned with fire: your land, strangers devour it in your presence, and [it is] desolate, as overthrown by strangers.

Ezekiel 26:7

For thus saith the Lord GOD; Behold, I will bring upon Tyrus Nebuchadrezzar king of Babylon, a king of kings, from the north, with horses, and with chariots, and with horsemen, and companies, and much people.

Ezekiel 26:10

By reason of the abundance of his horses their dust shall cover thee: thy walls shall shake at the noise of the horsemen, and of the wheels, and of the chariots, when he shall enter into thy gates, as men enter into a city wherein is made a breach.

Jeremiah 2:15

The young lions roared upon him, [and] yelled, and they made his land waste: his cities are burned without inhabitant.

Isaiah 6:11

Then said I, Lord, how long? And he answered, Until the cities be wasted without inhabitant, and the houses without man, and the land be utterly desolate,

Daniel 7:4

The first [was] like a lion, and had eagle's wings: I beheld till the wings thereof were plucked, and it was lifted up from the earth, and made stand upon the feet as a man, and a man's heart was given to it.