Jeremiah 46:26

KJV

And I will deliver them into the hand of those that seek their lives, and into the hand of Nebuchadrezzar king of Babylon, and into the hand of his servants: and afterward it shall be inhabited, as in the days of old, saith the LORD.

KJV (with Strong's)

And I will deliver {H5414} them into the hand {H3027} of those that seek {H1245} their lives {H5315}, and into the hand {H3027} of Nebuchadrezzar {H5019} king {H4428} of Babylon {H894}, and into the hand {H3027} of his servants {H5650}: and afterward {H310} it shall be inhabited {H7931}, as in the days {H3117} of old {H6924}, saith {H5002} the LORD {H3068}.

Complete Jewish Bible

I will hand them over to those who seek their lives, to N'vukhadretzar king of Bavel and to his servants. But afterwards, Egypt will be inhabited, as in the past," says ADONAI.

Berean Standard Bible

I will deliver them into the hands of those who seek their lives—of Nebuchadnezzar king of Babylon and his officers. But after this, Egypt will be inhabited as in days of old, declares the LORD.

American Standard Version

and I will deliver them into the hand of those that seek their lives, and into the hand of Nebuchadrezzar king of Babylon, and into the hand of his servants; and afterwards it shall be inhabited, as in the days of old, saith Jehovah.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Jeremiah 46:26 pronounces a severe divine judgment upon Egypt, declaring that the Lord will deliver the nation into the destructive power of Babylon, led by King Nebuchadrezzar and his forces. This pronouncement underscores God's absolute sovereignty over the nations, using even pagan empires as instruments of His will. Yet, amidst this decree of devastation, the verse concludes with a remarkable promise of future restoration for Egypt, indicating that the land will eventually be re-inhabited and return to a state reminiscent of its former prosperity, demonstrating God's ultimate redemptive purpose even for those who experience His judgment.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Jeremiah 46:26 is situated within the "Oracles Against the Nations" (Jeremiah 46-51), a significant section of the book where Jeremiah delivers divine pronouncements against various foreign powers. Specifically, chapter 46 focuses on Egypt, a nation that historically played a crucial, often problematic, role in Judah's political and spiritual landscape. This particular verse follows the detailed prophecy of Egypt's defeat at the Battle of Carchemish (Jeremiah 46:1-12), emphasizing that the impending Babylonian invasion is not merely a geopolitical event but an act orchestrated by the sovereign God of Israel. The subsequent verses continue to describe Egypt's humiliation and the Lord's eventual judgment upon Babylon itself, framing this verse as a pivotal moment in the unfolding divine plan for the region.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The late 7th and early 6th centuries BC were a period of immense geopolitical upheaval. The Neo-Babylonian Empire, under Nebuchadnezzar II (referred to as Nebuchadrezzar in KJV, a common variant), was rapidly ascending, having decisively defeated the Assyrian Empire and now vying for dominance with Egypt. The Battle of Carchemish in 605 BC was a turning point, where Nebuchadnezzar's forces crushed Pharaoh Necho's army, effectively ending Egypt's influence in the Levant. This historical backdrop is crucial, as Jeremiah's prophecy directly addresses this shift in power, asserting that Babylon's rise and Egypt's fall are not random events but divinely ordained. Culturally, Egypt was seen as a formidable, ancient power, often a source of false hope for Judah, who frequently sought alliances with them rather than trusting in the Lord (e.g., [Isaiah 30:1-7](/isaiah/30-1 "Isaiah 30:1-7 - Woe to Rebellious Children")).
* **Key Themes:** This verse powerfully articulates several core themes found throughout Jeremiah and the broader prophetic literature. First, it highlights **Divine Sovereignty**, demonstrating God's absolute control over all nations and their destinies, even those seemingly beyond human influence. The Lord declares, "I will deliver them," asserting His active role in history. Second, it underscores the theme of **Nebuchadnezzar as God's Instrument**. Despite being a pagan king, Nebuchadnezzar is explicitly named as the agent through whom God's judgment will be executed, a recurring motif in Jeremiah (e.g., [Jeremiah 25:9](/jeremiah/25-9 "Jeremiah 25:9 - Nebuchadnezzar, God's Servant")). This illustrates that God uses whomever He chooses to accomplish His purposes. Finally, the concluding phrase, "and afterward it shall be inhabited, as in the days of old," introduces the theme of **Judgment and Restoration**. Even in the midst of severe judgment, God's long-term plan often includes a promise of eventual renewal and return to normalcy, showcasing His mercy and redemptive character, not just for Israel but, in this unique instance, for Egypt as well (compare with [Isaiah 19:22-25](/isaiah/19-22 "Isaiah 19:22-25 - Egypt's Future Blessing")).

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **deliver (Hebrew, _nâthan'_):** This primitive root (H5414) carries a broad range of meanings, including "to give," "to put," "to make," and significantly, "to deliver (up)." In this context, it signifies God's active role in handing over Egypt to its enemies. It's not a passive allowance but a deliberate, sovereign act of divine judgment, emphasizing God's direct agency in the unfolding historical events.
* **hand (Hebrew, _yâd'_):** The word (H3027) refers to the "open hand," often symbolizing power, means, or direction. Its repeated use ("into the hand of...") in this verse powerfully conveys the idea of being completely subjected to another's authority and control. Egypt is not merely defeated but utterly given over to the dominion and destructive power of Nebuchadrezzar and his servants, indicating a complete loss of autonomy and a transfer of power.
* **seek (Hebrew, _bâqash'_):** This root (H1245) means "to search out," "to strive after," or "to seek." Here, "those that seek their lives" refers to the Babylonians who are relentlessly pursuing the Egyptians with the intent to destroy them. It highlights the aggressive, determined nature of the enemy, who are not merely conquering but are actively seeking to end the vitality and existence of the Egyptian people.
* **LORD (Hebrew, _Yᵉhôvâh'_):** This is the covenant name of God (H3068), often translated as "Jehovah" or "the Lord." Its appearance in the prophetic formula "saith the LORD" (H5002) at the end of the verse underscores the divine origin and authoritative nature of the entire prophecy. It signifies that this is not Jeremiah's human prediction but the infallible, self-existent God's decree, lending ultimate weight and certainty to both the judgment and the promise of restoration.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And I will deliver them into the hand of those that seek their lives,"**: This opening clause establishes the divine agency behind Egypt's impending doom. The "I" refers to the Lord, the sovereign God of Israel, who declares His intention to actively "deliver" or hand over the Egyptians. "Those that seek their lives" refers to the invading Babylonian forces, emphasizing their predatory and destructive intent. This signifies that Egypt's defeat is not merely a military outcome but a direct execution of God's judgment.
* **"and into the hand of Nebuchadrezzar king of Babylon, and into the hand of his servants:"**: This segment specifies the instruments of God's judgment. The repetition of "into the hand of" powerfully reinforces the complete subjugation of Egypt to Babylonian authority. Nebuchadrezzar, the formidable king of Babylon, is explicitly named as the primary agent, followed by "his servants," indicating the full might of the Babylonian military and administrative apparatus. This highlights God's use of even pagan rulers to accomplish His divine purposes.
* **"and afterward it shall be inhabited, as in the days of old,"**: This clause introduces a remarkable element of hope and future restoration. "Afterward" (H310) indicates a period following the judgment and devastation. The land of Egypt, though facing severe desolation, is promised to be "inhabited" (H7931) again. The phrase "as in the days of old" (H3117, H6924) suggests a return to a former state of normalcy, population, and perhaps even prosperity, implying that God's judgment is not absolute annihilation but has a redemptive horizon.
* **"saith the LORD."**: This concluding prophetic formula (Hebrew: _nᵉʼum Yᵉhôvâh'_ H5002, H3068) serves as an authoritative divine seal on the entire pronouncement. It affirms that the preceding words—both the declaration of judgment and the promise of restoration—are not human conjecture but the infallible, authoritative word of the self-existent God, guaranteeing their certain fulfillment.

#### Literary Devices
Jeremiah 46:26 employs several potent literary devices to convey its message. The most prominent is **Divine Fiat**, evident in the opening "And I will deliver them," which showcases God's absolute sovereignty and active role in history. This is reinforced by the concluding **Prophetic Formula**, "saith the LORD," which authenticates the message as a direct, undeniable utterance from God Himself. **Repetition** is powerfully used with the phrase "into the hand of," appearing three times. This anaphora emphasizes the complete and inescapable subjugation of Egypt to Babylonian power, underscoring the thoroughness of the divine judgment. Furthermore, the verse presents a stark **Contrast** between the immediate, devastating judgment and the ultimate, long-term promise of restoration ("afterward it shall be inhabited, as in the days of old"). This juxtaposition highlights God's justice intertwined with His enduring mercy, revealing a comprehensive divine plan that extends beyond immediate punishment to future renewal.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
This verse profoundly illustrates God's sovereign control over all nations and the unfolding of human history. It reveals that even mighty empires and their rulers, like Nebuchadrezzar, are merely instruments in the hand of the Almighty, fulfilling His purposes, whether knowingly or unknowingly. The judgment upon Egypt serves as a stark reminder that no nation is exempt from divine accountability, especially when pride, idolatry, or opposition to God's people characterize its actions. Yet, the concluding promise of restoration for Egypt, a nation often hostile to Israel, highlights God's expansive mercy and His ultimate desire for renewal, even for those outside the covenant community, demonstrating that His redemptive plan can encompass a broader scope than initially perceived. This pattern of judgment followed by a promise of restoration is a recurring motif throughout biblical prophecy, assuring believers that God's purposes are always ultimately redemptive and restorative, even through periods of severe trial.

* [Jeremiah 25:9](/jeremiah/25-9 "Jeremiah 25:9 - Nebuchadnezzar, God's Servant")
* [Isaiah 19:22-25](/isaiah/19-22 "Isaiah 19:22-25 - Egypt's Future Blessing")
* [Daniel 4:17](/daniel/4-17 "Daniel 4:17 - God Rules in the Kingdom of Men")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Jeremiah 46:26 offers profound lessons for contemporary believers. In a world often characterized by political instability, the rise and fall of nations, and the apparent triumph of powerful, ungodly forces, this verse serves as a powerful anchor, reminding us that God remains utterly sovereign. No earthly power operates outside of His ultimate authority; He uses all things, even destructive empires, to accomplish His divine will. This should instill a deep trust in God's overarching plan, even when circumstances seem chaotic or unjust. Furthermore, the promise of restoration, "as in the days of old," provides a vital beacon of hope. It teaches us that God's judgments, while severe, are often not final annihilation but rather corrective actions leading to eventual renewal. This encourages us to look beyond immediate difficulties and trust in God's long-term redemptive purposes, both for nations and for individual lives. It calls us to pray for our nations, recognizing God's hand in their destinies, and to live with hope, knowing that even after periods of desolation, God can bring about restoration and new beginnings.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does the sovereignty of God over nations, as depicted in this verse, impact your view of current global events?**
* **In what ways might God be using seemingly negative or destructive forces in the world today to accomplish His ultimate purposes?**
* **How can the promise of restoration for Egypt, an enemy nation, encourage your faith in God's mercy and redemptive plan for all humanity?**
* **What "days of old" might God be calling you or your community back to, after a period of difficulty or judgment?**

### FAQ

**Who was Nebuchadrezzar, and why is he significant in this prophecy?**

Answer: Nebuchadrezzar (H5019), also commonly known as Nebuchadnezzar II, was the most powerful king of the Neo-Babylonian Empire, reigning from 605 to 562 BC. He was instrumental in the destruction of the Assyrian Empire and the defeat of Egypt at the Battle of Carchemish in 605 BC, which solidified Babylonian dominance in the ancient Near East. In this prophecy, he is significant not merely as a historical figure but as God's chosen instrument of judgment. Though a pagan king acting out of his own ambition, God explicitly states that He will "deliver them into the hand of Nebuchadrezzar king of Babylon," indicating that Nebuchadrezzar was unknowingly fulfilling the divine will. This theme is consistent throughout Jeremiah, where Nebuchadnezzar is even referred to as "My servant" by the Lord (e.g., [Jeremiah 25:9](/jeremiah/25-9 "Jeremiah 25:9 - Nebuchadnezzar, God's Servant")).

**What does "afterward it shall be inhabited, as in the days of old" mean for Egypt?**

Answer: This phrase promises a future restoration for Egypt after the period of divine judgment and Babylonian devastation. "Afterward" (H310) signifies a time beyond the immediate suffering. "It shall be inhabited" (H7931) means the land will be repopulated and settled again, implying a return from desolation. "As in the days of old" (H3117, H6924) suggests a return to a former state of normalcy, stability, and perhaps even prosperity, reminiscent of its pre-judgment condition. This is a remarkable promise, as prophecies against nations often focused solely on their destruction. It highlights God's long-term redemptive plan, even for nations outside the covenant with Israel, demonstrating His mercy and the cyclical pattern of judgment followed by renewal in His dealings with humanity. While the immediate context is Egypt's physical restoration, it points to a broader theological truth about God's ultimate desire for life and flourishing.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Jeremiah 46:26, with its themes of divine judgment, the use of a seemingly unlikely instrument, and ultimate restoration, finds profound Christ-centered fulfillment. The "hand" (H3027) into which Egypt is delivered foreshadows the ultimate "hand" of divine justice and mercy. While Egypt was delivered into the hand of Nebuchadrezzar for judgment, humanity, steeped in sin, was delivered into the hands of the Father's perfect plan through the sacrifice of His Son. Jesus Christ is the ultimate instrument of God's judgment against sin, bearing its full weight on the cross (e.g., [2 Corinthians 5:21](/2_corinthians/5-21 "2 Corinthians 5:21 - Christ Became Sin for Us")). Yet, in His death and resurrection, He also becomes the ultimate deliverer, rescuing humanity from the "hand of those that seek their lives," namely sin and death (e.g., [Colossians 1:13-14](/colossians/1-13 "Colossians 1:13-14 - Delivered from the Domain of Darkness")). The promise that Egypt would "afterward... be inhabited, as in the days of old" points to the comprehensive restoration brought about by Christ's redemptive work. Through Him, not only is individual life restored, but all creation groans for and anticipates a complete renewal to a state "as in the days of old," a new heavens and new earth where righteousness dwells (e.g., [Revelation 21:1-5](/revelation/21-1 "Revelation 21:1-5 - New Heaven and New Earth")). Jesus is the true "Lord" (H3068) who speaks and brings to pass both judgment and ultimate, glorious restoration, fulfilling all that the prophets declared.

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 44:30

Thus saith the LORD; Behold, I will give Pharaohhophra king of Egypt into the hand of his enemies, and into the hand of them that seek his life; as I gave Zedekiah king of Judah into the hand of Nebuchadrezzar king of Babylon, his enemy, and that sought his life.

Ezekiel 32:11

For thus saith the Lord GOD; The sword of the king of Babylon shall come upon thee.

Ezekiel 29:8

¶ Therefore thus saith the Lord GOD; Behold, I will bring a sword upon thee, and cut off man and beast out of thee.

Ezekiel 29:14

And I will bring again the captivity of Egypt, and will cause them to return [into] the land of Pathros, into the land of their habitation; and they shall be there a base kingdom.

Jeremiah 48:47

Yet will I bring again the captivity of Moab in the latter days, saith the LORD. Thus far [is] the judgment of Moab.

Jeremiah 49:39

But it shall come to pass in the latter days, [that] I will bring again the captivity of Elam, saith the LORD.