Jeremiah 46:19

KJV

O thou daughter dwelling in Egypt, furnish thyself to go into captivity: for Noph shall be waste and desolate without an inhabitant.

KJV (with Strong's)

O thou daughter {H1323} dwelling {H3427} in Egypt {H4714}, furnish {H6213} thyself to go into captivity {H3627}{H1473}: for Noph {H5297} shall be waste {H8047} and desolate {H3341} without an inhabitant {H3427}.

Complete Jewish Bible

"Daughter living in Egypt, prepare what you need for exile; for Nof will become a ruin, laid waste, without inhabitant.

Berean Standard Bible

Pack your bags for exile, O daughter dwelling in Egypt! For Memphis will be laid waste, destroyed and uninhabited.

American Standard Version

O thou daughter that dwellest in Egypt, furnish thyself to go into captivity; for Memphis shall become a desolation, and shall be burnt up, without inhabitant.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Jeremiah 46:19 delivers a stark prophetic warning to Egypt, personified as a "daughter," commanding her to prepare for imminent captivity. This divine decree underscores the absolute sovereignty of God over all nations, even mighty Egypt, whose pride and perceived invincibility will crumble. The verse specifically highlights the impending desolation of Noph (Memphis), a prominent Egyptian capital, as a tangible sign of this comprehensive and unavoidable judgment, signaling the end of its security and prominence.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Jeremiah 46:19 is situated within a significant section of the book of Jeremiah (chapters 46-51) known as the "Oracles Against the Nations." These prophecies demonstrate God's universal sovereignty, revealing that His authority extends beyond Judah to encompass all Gentile nations. Specifically, chapter 46 focuses on the judgment against Egypt, serving as a counterpoint to Judah's tendency to seek alliances with Egypt rather than trusting in God. The preceding verses in [Jeremiah 46](/jeremiah/46 "Jeremiah 46 - Prophecy Against Egypt") detail the defeat of Pharaoh Neco's army at Carchemish (Jeremiah 46:2-12) and then pivot to prophesy Nebuchadnezzar's subsequent invasion and conquest of Egypt itself (Jeremiah 46:13-18). Verse 19, therefore, is a direct, imperative declaration of the inevitable outcome of this divine judgment, emphasizing the futility of resistance for even a powerful nation like Egypt.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** Ancient Egypt was a formidable power, renowned for its long history, advanced civilization, immense wealth, and military might. It often served as a regional hegemon, frequently interacting with, and sometimes dominating, smaller nations like Judah. At the time of this prophecy (likely late 7th to early 6th century BCE), Egypt was a major player in the geopolitical landscape, often vying with the rising Babylonian Empire for control of the Near East. Noph, or Memphis, was one of Egypt's most ancient and strategically vital cities, serving as a political, religious, and economic capital for much of its history. Located at the apex of the Nile Delta, it was a symbol of Egyptian strength and stability. The prophecy of its utter destruction and depopulation would have been a shocking and potent declaration, signaling the complete collapse of Egyptian power and the end of its perceived security, an event that would ultimately be fulfilled by Nebuchadnezzar's invasion, as also alluded to in [Ezekiel 29:19](/ezekiel/29-19 "Ezekiel 29:19 - Nebuchadnezzar's Reward for Conquering Egypt").

* **Key Themes:** This verse powerfully contributes to several overarching themes in Jeremiah and the broader prophetic literature. Firstly, it underscores **Divine Sovereignty and Inevitable Judgment**, demonstrating that God's control extends over all nations and their destinies. The ironic command for Egypt to "furnish thyself to go into captivity" highlights the absolute certainty of its downfall, regardless of its perceived strength. Secondly, it illustrates the **Consequences of Pride and False Security**. Egypt, relying on its military, wealth, and idolatrous practices, is shown to be utterly vulnerable before God's decree. The destruction of Noph, a symbol of Egyptian power, emphasizes that no human stronghold or self-reliance can ultimately stand against divine purpose, a theme echoed in other prophecies against proud nations like Babylon in [Jeremiah 50:31-32](/jeremiah/50-31 "Jeremiah 50:31-32 - Judgment Against Babylon's Pride"). Thirdly, it reveals God's use of **Foreign Powers as Instruments of Judgment**, as Nebuchadnezzar and Babylon are depicted not merely as political rivals but as agents of God's righteous wrath against Egypt's arrogance and idolatry, a concept also seen in [Isaiah 10:5-6](/isaiah/10-5 "Isaiah 10:5-6 - Assyria as God's Rod of Anger").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **daughter (Hebrew, _bath'_):** H1323, from בָּנָה (as feminine of בֵּן); a daughter (used in the same wide sense as other terms of relationship, literally and figuratively); apple (of the eye), branch, company, daughter, [idiom] first, [idiom] old, [phrase] owl, town, village. Here, "daughter" is a term of personification, addressing Egypt as a collective entity, perhaps with a touch of tender irony or a sense of lament for its impending fate, despite its pride. It humanizes the nation, making the judgment more poignant.
* **furnish (Hebrew, _'âsâh'_):** H6213, a primitive root; to do or make, in the broadest sense and widest application; accomplish, advance, appoint, apt, be at, become, bear, bestow, bring forth, bruise, be busy, [idiom] certainly, have the charge of, commit, deal (with), deck, [phrase] displease, do, (ready) dress(-ed), (put in) execute(-ion), exercise, fashion, [phrase] feast, (fight-) ing man, [phrase] finish, fit, fly, follow, fulfill, furnish, gather, get, go about, govern, grant, great, [phrase] hinder, hold (a feast), [idiom] indeed, [phrase] be industrious, [phrase] journey, keep, labour, maintain, make, be meet, observe, be occupied, offer, [phrase] officer, pare, bring (come) to pass, perform, pracise, prepare, procure, provide, put, requite, [idiom] sacrifice, serve, set, shew, [idiom] sin, spend, [idiom] surely, take, [idiom] thoroughly, trim, [idiom] very, [phrase] vex, be (warr-) ior, work(-man), yield, use. In this context, "furnish thyself" (a translation of the H6213 verb in the imperative, combined with H3627 "kᵉlîy" meaning "something prepared" or "utensil/stuff") carries a deeply ironic and sarcastic tone. It's a command to prepare, not for defense or prosperity, but for the ignominy of forced relocation, implying the utter helplessness of Egypt before God's decree.
* **waste (Hebrew, _shammâh'_):** H8047, from שָׁמֵם; ruin; by implication, consternation; astonishment, desolate(-ion), waste, wonderful thing. This word, paired with "desolate," powerfully conveys the extent of the destruction. It speaks not just of physical ruin but also of the resulting horror, shock, and utter emptiness. The land and its key city will be reduced to a state of uninhabited desolation, a testament to the severity of divine judgment.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"O thou daughter dwelling in Egypt":** This phrase personifies the nation of Egypt, addressing it directly as a "daughter." This intimate form of address, often used for cities or nations in prophetic literature (e.g., "daughter of Zion"), here adds a layer of poignant irony. It speaks to a nation that once felt secure and sovereign in its own land, now being commanded by a higher authority. The "dwelling in Egypt" emphasizes its established presence and perceived stability, which is about to be shattered.
* **"furnish thyself to go into captivity":** This is a powerful, sarcastic imperative. Instead of preparing for battle or defense, Egypt is commanded to prepare for its own forced removal. "Furnish thyself" implies gathering one's belongings for a journey, but here it's for a journey into exile, a state of utter powerlessness and humiliation. This command highlights the absolute certainty and inevitability of the judgment; resistance is futile, and the only "preparation" possible is for the decreed punishment.
* **"for Noph shall be waste and desolate without an inhabitant":** This clause provides the reason and the concrete manifestation of Egypt's judgment. Noph, the ancient and significant city of Memphis, is singled out for utter destruction. The phrase "waste and desolate" (Hebrew: _shammâh_ and _yâtsath_) emphasizes complete ruin, depopulation, and abandonment. The addition "without an inhabitant" leaves no doubt about the totality of the devastation, signifying that a once-thriving capital will become a barren wasteland, a stark monument to divine judgment.

#### Literary Devices
Jeremiah 46:19 employs several potent **Literary Devices** to convey its message of impending judgment. **Personification** is evident in the address "O thou daughter dwelling in Egypt," which gives the nation a human identity, making the divine command more direct and impactful. This allows the prophet to speak to Egypt's pride and impending humiliation in a more intimate way. The central command, "furnish thyself to go into captivity," is a striking example of **Irony**. Instead of preparing for battle or prosperity, Egypt is mockingly told to prepare for its own downfall, emphasizing the futility of its strength against God's decree. This ironic imperative underscores the absolute certainty and inevitability of the judgment. Furthermore, the description of Noph as "waste and desolate without an inhabitant" uses **Hyperbole** and **Emphasis** to convey the utter and complete destruction. The repetition of terms for ruin and the explicit declaration of depopulation paint a vivid picture of total devastation, leaving no room for doubt about the severity and comprehensiveness of the divine judgment.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Jeremiah 46:19 powerfully articulates God's absolute sovereignty over all nations, demonstrating that no empire, regardless of its power or ancient pedigree, can stand against His divine will. It serves as a profound reminder that earthly kingdoms are transient and ultimately subject to the judgment of the Almighty. The verse highlights the consequences of national pride, self-reliance, and idolatry, revealing that what humans perceive as impregnable strength is fragile before the Creator of the universe. God's use of Babylon as an instrument of judgment against Egypt underscores His ability to orchestrate geopolitical events to fulfill His purposes, even through pagan nations. This prophecy thus calls all peoples to humility and a recognition that true security and lasting peace are found not in military might or material wealth, but in acknowledging and submitting to the one true God.

* [Isaiah 19:1](/isaiah/19-1 "Isaiah 19:1 - Prophecy Against Egypt's Downfall"): A parallel prophecy against Egypt, detailing its internal strife and eventual subjugation, reinforcing God's judgment upon the nation.
* [Psalm 33:10-11](/psalms/33-10 "Psalm 33:10-11 - God's Counsel Stands Forever"): This psalm declares that "The Lord brings the counsel of the nations to nothing; he frustrates the plans of the peoples. The counsel of the Lord stands forever, the plans of his heart to all generations," directly affirming the theme of God's ultimate sovereignty over human designs.
* [Daniel 4:17](/daniel/4-17 "Daniel 4:17 - God Rules in the Kingdom of Men"): This verse from Daniel explicitly states that "the Most High rules the kingdom of mankind and gives it to whom he will and sets over it the humblest of men," reinforcing the theological truth that God is the ultimate arbiter of national destinies.

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Jeremiah 46:19 serves as a timeless and sobering reminder that all earthly power, wealth, and security are ultimately transient and subject to the sovereign will of God. For nations today, this prophecy calls for humility, righteous governance, and a recognition that true prosperity and stability are rooted in justice, compassion, and a fear of the Lord, rather than in military might, economic prowess, or political maneuvering. When nations or individuals place their trust in human strength or material possessions, they set themselves up for a fall, just as ancient Egypt did. For the individual, this verse challenges us to examine where we place our ultimate security and hope. Do we rely on our careers, finances, social status, or personal abilities? Or do we acknowledge God as the ultimate source of all true security and peace? It compels us to live with an eternal perspective, understanding that our lives, like nations, are held in the hand of a sovereign God who judges justly and whose purposes will always prevail. This understanding should lead not to fear, but to a profound trust in His wisdom and power, and a commitment to live in alignment with His righteous character.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **Where do I, or my nation, tend to place our ultimate trust and security?**
* **How does the inevitable judgment of powerful nations like Egypt inform my understanding of God's character and His control over history?**
* **In what ways might I be "furnishing myself for captivity" by relying on fleeting worldly comforts instead of investing in eternal truths?**
* **What practical steps can I take to cultivate a deeper dependence on God rather than on self or worldly systems?**

### FAQ
**Who is the "daughter dwelling in Egypt" mentioned in this verse?**
Answer: The phrase "daughter dwelling in Egypt" is a poetic and personified reference to the nation of Egypt itself, or more specifically, its people. In biblical prophecy, it was common to refer to cities or nations as "daughters" (e.g., "daughter of Zion" for Jerusalem). This personification lends a sense of direct address and perhaps a touch of lament or irony to the divine judgment being pronounced upon the entire land and its inhabitants, emphasizing that no part of Egypt, from its capital to its people, would escape the coming judgment.

**What was Noph (Memphis) and why was its destruction significant?**
Answer: Noph is the Hebrew name for the ancient Egyptian city of Memphis. It was one of Egypt's oldest and most important cities, serving as a political, religious, and economic capital for much of its history, particularly during the Old Kingdom. Its destruction was highly significant because Memphis was a symbol of Egyptian power, stability, and cultural identity. It housed major temples, royal palaces, and administrative centers. Its prophesied desolation, "waste and desolate without an inhabitant," signified a complete and utter collapse of Egyptian might and the irreversible nature of God's judgment, demonstrating that even the most formidable human strongholds are vulnerable to divine decree, as seen in other prophecies against mighty cities like Tyre in [Ezekiel 26:19-21](/ezekiel/26-19 "Ezekiel 26:19-21 - Prophecy Against Tyre").

**Why did God judge Egypt, and how was this judgment fulfilled?**
Answer: God judged Egypt primarily for its pride, idolatry, and its role as an unreliable and often oppressive power that had historically stood against God's people. Egypt often presented itself as a source of false security for Judah, tempting them away from trusting in the Lord. The judgment foretold in Jeremiah 46, including the desolation of Noph, was primarily fulfilled through the invasion and conquest by Nebuchadnezzar, king of Babylon. Historical records and other biblical prophecies (e.g., [Jeremiah 43:10-13](/jeremiah/43-10 "Jeremiah 43:10-13 - Nebuchadnezzar to Strike Egypt") and [Ezekiel 29:19-20](/ezekiel/29-19 "Ezekiel 29:19-20 - Nebuchadnezzar's Reward")) confirm that Nebuchadnezzar did indeed invade Egypt, though the extent of its "waste and desolate" state in Jeremiah 46:19 likely refers to a severe and prolonged period of decline and foreign domination rather than complete, permanent abandonment.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
While Jeremiah 46:19 speaks of a historical judgment upon ancient Egypt, its Christ-centered fulfillment lies in the profound theological truths it reveals about God's sovereignty, judgment, and the ultimate futility of human strength apart from Him. Christ is the ultimate King whose kingdom is not of this world, and unlike the transient empires of Egypt or Babylon, His dominion is eternal and unshakeable, as prophesied in [Daniel 2:44](/daniel/2-44 "Daniel 2:44 - God's Kingdom Will Never Be Destroyed"). The judgment pronounced upon Egypt foreshadows the ultimate judgment that will fall upon all who reject God's rule, a judgment that Christ Himself, as the Son of Man, is appointed to execute ([John 5:22](/john/5-22 "John 5:22 - The Father Judges No One, But Has Given All Judgment to the Son")). Furthermore, the "captivity" Egypt was commanded to prepare for finds its spiritual parallel in the human condition of being enslaved by sin and death. Christ, through His atoning sacrifice and resurrection, offers liberation from this ultimate captivity, delivering those who trust in Him from the dominion of darkness and bringing them into the glorious freedom of His kingdom ([Colossians 1:13-14](/colossians/1-13 "Colossians 1:13-14 - Delivered from the Domain of Darkness")). Thus, while Egypt faced physical ruin, Christ offers spiritual refuge and an eternal dwelling place for all who believe, a security far greater than any earthly capital could provide ([John 14:2-3](/john/14-2 "John 14:2-3 - Jesus Prepares a Place for Us")).

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

Isaiah 20:4

So shall the king of Assyria lead away the Egyptians prisoners, and the Ethiopians captives, young and old, naked and barefoot, even with [their] buttocks uncovered, to the shame of Egypt.

Jeremiah 48:18

Thou daughter that dost inhabit Dibon, come down from [thy] glory, and sit in thirst; for the spoiler of Moab shall come upon thee, [and] he shall destroy thy strong holds.

Ezekiel 30:13

Thus saith the Lord GOD; I will also destroy the idols, and I will cause [their] images to cease out of Noph; and there shall be no more a prince of the land of Egypt: and I will put a fear in the land of Egypt.

Jeremiah 44:1

¶ The word that came to Jeremiah concerning all the Jews which dwell in the land of Egypt, which dwell at Migdol, and at Tahpanhes, and at Noph, and in the country of Pathros, saying,

Jeremiah 26:9

Why hast thou prophesied in the name of the LORD, saying, This house shall be like Shiloh, and this city shall be desolate without an inhabitant? And all the people were gathered against Jeremiah in the house of the LORD.

Zephaniah 2:5

Woe unto the inhabitants of the sea coast, the nation of the Cherethites! the word of the LORD [is] against you; O Canaan, the land of the Philistines, I will even destroy thee, that there shall be no inhabitant.

Jeremiah 34:22

Behold, I will command, saith the LORD, and cause them to return to this city; and they shall fight against it, and take it, and burn it with fire: and I will make the cities of Judah a desolation without an inhabitant.