Jeremiah 47:2

KJV

Thus saith the LORD; Behold, waters rise up out of the north, and shall be an overflowing flood, and shall overflow the land, and all that is therein; the city, and them that dwell therein: then the men shall cry, and all the inhabitants of the land shall howl.

KJV (with Strong's)

Thus saith {H559} the LORD {H3068}; Behold, waters {H4325} rise up {H5927} out of the north {H6828}, and shall be an overflowing {H7857} flood {H5158}, and shall overflow {H7857} the land {H776}, and all that is therein {H4393}; the city {H5892}, and them that dwell {H3427} therein: then the men {H120} shall cry {H2199}, and all the inhabitants {H3427} of the land {H776} shall howl {H3213}.

Complete Jewish Bible

"Here is what ADONAI says: 'Water is rising out of the north; it will become a flooding stream, flooding the land and all that is in it, the city and its inhabitants. The people are crying out in alarm, everyone in the land is weeping

Berean Standard Bible

This is what the LORD says: “See how the waters are rising from the north and becoming an overflowing torrent. They will overflow the land and its fullness, the cities and their inhabitants. The people will cry out, and all who dwell in the land will wail

American Standard Version

Thus saith Jehovah: Behold, waters rise up out of the north, and shall become an overflowing stream, and shall overflow the land and all that is therein, the city and them that dwell therein; and the men shall cry, and all the inhabitants of the land shall wail.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Jeremiah 47:2 delivers a stark and terrifying prophecy of divine judgment poised to descend upon the Philistines. Through the vivid and powerful metaphor of an overwhelming flood rising from the north, the Lord declares an unstoppable invasion that will completely engulf their land, cities, and inhabitants, leaving them in utter despair and lamentation. This pronouncement powerfully underscores God's absolute sovereignty over all nations and His righteous indignation against those who oppose His will, perpetuate injustice, or stand in defiance of His divine order.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Jeremiah 47:2 is strategically placed within the "Oracles Against the Nations" (chapters 46-51), a significant section of Jeremiah's prophetic book that demonstrates God's universal dominion, extending His judgment beyond Judah to the surrounding peoples. Following the detailed prophecy against Egypt in [Jeremiah 46](/jeremiah/46 "Jeremiah 46 - Prophecy Against Egypt"), this chapter specifically targets the Philistines, a long-standing historical adversary of Israel. The recurring imagery of a destructive force emanating from the "north" is a critical motif throughout Jeremiah, consistently identifying the Neo-Babylonian Empire as God's chosen instrument of judgment, a theme powerfully introduced in earlier passages like [Jeremiah 1:14](/jeremiah/1-14 "Jeremiah 1:14 - Evil from the North") and further developed in [Jeremiah 6:1](/jeremiah/6-1 "Jeremiah 6:1 - Invasion from the North"). This consistent imagery reinforces the divine origin and unstoppable nature of the impending catastrophe.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The Philistines were a formidable maritime people, originating from the Aegean region, who settled along the southwestern coast of Canaan around the 12th century BC. They established a powerful confederation of five major city-states: Gaza, Ashkelon, Ashdod, Gath, and Ekron, and frequently posed a significant military threat to Israel throughout its early history. By the late 7th and early 6th centuries BC, the geopolitical landscape of the ancient Near East was irrevocably shaped by the ascendancy of the Neo-Babylonian Empire under Nebuchadnezzar II. Following their decisive victory over Egypt at the Battle of Carchemish in 605 BC, the Babylonians systematically expanded their control westward, sweeping through Syria-Palestine. The metaphor of "waters rising up out of the north" precisely describes this historical reality, as invading armies from Mesopotamia typically approached the Levant from the north, traversing the fertile crescent and then moving south along the coastal plains. Thus, the prophecy foretells the Philistines' inevitable subjugation or destruction at the hands of this overwhelming Babylonian force.

* **Key Themes:** This verse profoundly contributes to several overarching themes central to Jeremiah's prophetic message. Firstly, it powerfully asserts **Divine Sovereignty Over Nations**, emphasizing that the Lord is not merely the God of Israel but the supreme and ultimate ruler of all the earth, meticulously orchestrating the rise and fall of empires according to His righteous and sovereign purposes. Secondly, it highlights the theme of **Inevitable Judgment for Sin**, demonstrating unequivocally that even powerful nations like the Philistines, who had a history of oppressing God's people and engaging in idolatry, would face severe consequences for their wickedness and rebellion against divine order. The "overflowing flood" serves as a potent symbol of the irresistible and comprehensive nature of this divine decree. Finally, the prophecy underscores the **Reliability of God's Word**, as Jeremiah's pronouncements, however dire or seemingly improbable, consistently came to pass, serving as a profound testament to the truthfulness of his prophetic ministry and the ultimate fulfillment of God's declared plans, echoing similar prophetic messages against nations found in books like [Isaiah 13](/isaiah/13 "Isaiah 13 - Prophecy Against Babylon") and [Ezekiel 25](/ezekiel/25 "Ezekiel 25 - Prophecy Against Ammon, Moab, Edom, and Philistia").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **waters (Hebrew, _mayim'_):** This term (H4325), typically referring to literal water, is employed here figuratively to denote an immense, overwhelming, and destructive force. In the context of ancient Near Eastern warfare, "waters" or "floods" frequently symbolized vast invading armies, highlighting their sheer numbers, irresistible advance, and the comprehensive destruction they wrought. The imagery powerfully conveys a sense of being engulfed, submerged, and drowned by the enemy's might.
* **overflowing (Hebrew, _shâṭaph'_):** This primitive root (H7857) signifies "to gush," "to inundate," or "to cleanse." When applied to a flood, it vividly conveys the idea of an uncontrolled, sweeping torrent that covers and overwhelms everything in its path. In this prophetic context, it precisely describes the comprehensive, irresistible, and devastating nature of the impending invasion, implying that no part of the land or its inhabitants will remain untouched by its destructive force.
* **howl (Hebrew, _yâlal'_):** This root (H3213) denotes a wailing or yelling, expressing profound grief, intense distress, or utter despair. It describes a public, audible, and widespread manifestation of deep suffering and lamentation, indicating complete helplessness, the shattering of hope, and the profound terror in the face of overwhelming calamity. It paints a vivid picture of widespread mourning and abject terror gripping the entire population.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Thus saith the LORD; Behold, waters rise up out of the north":** This opening clause unequivocally establishes the divine authority and origin of the prophecy. "Thus saith the LORD" (Hebrew: _Yᵉhôvâh_, H3068) emphasizes that this is not merely Jeremiah's human insight or opinion, but a direct, authoritative message from the sovereign God of Israel. The phrase "waters rise up out of the north" serves as a potent metaphor for a vast, unstoppable army, specifically identifying the Neo-Babylonian forces. Historically, these invaders consistently approached Judah and its surrounding regions from the north, making this a precise geographical and symbolic indicator of the source and overwhelming nature of the impending judgment.
* **"and shall be an overflowing flood, and shall overflow the land, and all that is therein; the city, and them that dwell therein":** This section elaborates on the comprehensive and destructive power of the "waters." The description "an overflowing flood" intensifies the metaphor, emphasizing the complete and irresistible inundation. The judgment is portrayed as utterly comprehensive, affecting "the land" (the entire Philistine territory), "all that is therein" (encompassing its resources, infrastructure, and even its livestock), "the city" (referring to the major Philistine urban centers like Gaza or Ashkelon), and "them that dwell therein" (the entire population, without exception). This paints a chilling picture of total devastation and inescapable ruin.
* **"then the men shall cry, and all the inhabitants of the land shall howl":** This final clause vividly depicts the human response to the catastrophic invasion. The Hebrew words for "cry" (_zâʻaq_, H2199) and "howl" (_yâlal_, H3213) convey an intense, visceral expression of anguish, terror, and lamentation. It signifies the profound despair, utter helplessness, and public mourning that will grip the Philistine people as they face complete destruction, highlighting the devastating emotional and psychological impact of God's severe and unavoidable judgment.

#### Literary Devices
Jeremiah 47:2 is exceptionally rich in **Imagery**, painting a vivid and terrifying picture of an unstoppable natural disaster to convey the nature of the impending military invasion. The central and most powerful device is **Metaphor**, where "waters rise up out of the north" and "an overflowing flood" are used to represent the Babylonian army. This metaphor masterfully communicates the overwhelming force, vast numbers, and destructive power of the invaders, likening them to an irresistible and all-consuming natural phenomenon. The phrase "overflow the land, and all that is therein; the city, and them that dwell therein" employs **Hyperbole** to emphasize the totality and comprehensiveness of the destruction, suggesting that absolutely nothing will be spared from the devastating impact. Furthermore, the concluding description, "then the men shall cry, and all the inhabitants of the land shall howl," utilizes **Pathos**, evoking a profound emotional response by depicting the intense terror, grief, and despair that will engulf the Philistine people, making the dire consequences of divine judgment palpable and immediate to the audience.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
This prophecy in Jeremiah 47:2 serves as a stark and enduring reminder of God's universal sovereignty and His unwavering commitment to righteous justice. It unequivocally demonstrates that no nation, regardless of its perceived strength, historical prominence, or geographical location, is exempt from divine accountability. The Philistines, who had historically been instruments of oppression against Israel and often engaged in idolatry, now face the inevitable consequences of their own actions, powerfully illustrating the theological principle that God will ultimately judge all unrighteousness and rebellion against His moral order. The vivid imagery of an unstoppable flood of judgment underscores the futility of human resistance when God's sovereign decree is issued, emphasizing His absolute control over the course of human history and the destinies of nations. This passage profoundly reaffirms that God is indeed the Lord of all the earth, meticulously orchestrating events, even through the actions of pagan empires, to fulfill His ultimate purposes and uphold His divine justice.

* [Isaiah 13:6](/isaiah/13-6 "Isaiah 13:6 - The Day of the Lord is Near")
* [Daniel 4:17](/daniel/4-17 "Daniel 4:17 - God Rules the Kingdoms of Men")
* [Joel 1:5](/joel/1-5 "Joel 1:5 - Wake Up, Drunkards, and Weep!")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Jeremiah 47:2, though a prophecy rooted in ancient history, offers profound and timeless truths for contemporary reflection and application. It compels us to recognize that God remains eternally sovereign over all earthly affairs, even amidst the most complex geopolitical turmoil and seemingly chaotic global events. Just as He raised up Babylon as a formidable instrument of judgment in Jeremiah's day, He continues to work through various means in human history to achieve His righteous and redemptive ends. This profound truth should inspire both reverent awe and a healthy, biblical fear of the Lord, reminding us that there are ultimate and unavoidable consequences for persistent rebellion against His divine moral order. For nations and individuals alike, this passage serves as a powerful and urgent call to humility, sincere repentance, and a profound recognition of God's supreme authority. It challenges us to critically examine our own accountability before God and to respond to His warnings with genuine obedience, a fervent desire for justice, and a commitment to righteousness, rather than facing the inevitable "howling" of despair that accompanies unheeded divine judgment.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does the powerful imagery of an "overflowing flood" from the "north" challenge our contemporary sense of security in worldly power, technological advancements, or human defenses?**
* **In what specific ways might we, as individuals or as a society, be experiencing or contributing to a metaphorical "howling" today due to unheeded warnings, moral compromise, or a disregard for God's timeless principles?**
* **What profound insights does this prophecy reveal about God's immutable character, particularly regarding His justice, His sovereignty over all nations, and His faithfulness to His declared word?**
* **How can understanding God's historical judgment on ancient nations inform and shape our prayers, advocacy, and practical actions regarding contemporary global conflicts, widespread injustices, and the spiritual condition of our own nation?**

### FAQ

**Why is the "north" consistently depicted as the source of invasion and judgment in Jeremiah?**

Answer: The "north" in Jeremiah's prophecies, including [Jeremiah 47:2](/jeremiah/47-2 "Jeremiah 47:2 - Prophecy Against the Philistines"), is a consistent geographical and symbolic reference to the Neo-Babylonian Empire. For armies invading from Mesopotamia (modern-day Iraq), the most practical and common route into the Levant (Syria-Palestine) was to travel west along the Fertile Crescent, then turn south, effectively entering the region from the north. This made the "north" the primary and most threatening direction of military approach for Judah and its surrounding neighbors. Symbolically, it represents the divinely appointed instrument God used to bring judgment upon His people and surrounding nations, emphasizing the precise and sovereign orchestration of historical events by the Lord.

**Who were the Philistines, and why were they singled out for such a severe prophecy?**

Answer: The Philistines were a non-Semitic people who migrated from the Aegean region (likely Crete or the Mycenaean world) and settled along the southwestern coast of Canaan around the 12th century BC. They established a powerful pentapolis of five major city-states: Gaza, Ashkelon, Ashdod, Gath, and Ekron. Throughout much of the Old Testament period, they were formidable adversaries of Israel, frequently engaging in conflict and often oppressing the Israelites. Their judgment, as prophesied in [Jeremiah 47](/jeremiah/47 "Jeremiah 47 - Prophecy Against the Philistines"), was part of God's broader plan to bring righteous justice upon all nations that had rebelled against Him, engaged in idolatry, or oppressed His covenant people. Their judgment serves as a powerful testament to God's universal justice and His ultimate, sovereign control over all peoples and empires, demonstrating that no nation is above His divine reckoning.

**Does this prophecy have any relevance for believers today, beyond its historical fulfillment?**

Answer: Yes, Jeremiah 47:2 holds profound and enduring spiritual relevance for believers today. While its primary fulfillment was historical, it underscores timeless theological truths that transcend its immediate context. It powerfully reminds us of God's absolute and unwavering sovereignty over all nations and the entire course of human history, assuring us that He is ultimately in control even amidst global chaos and uncertainty. It also serves as a solemn warning about the certainty of divine judgment for sin, both for nations and for individuals, thereby emphasizing the critical importance of genuine repentance, righteousness, and living in accordance with God's moral law. Furthermore, it highlights the unfailing reliability of God's prophetic word, encouraging profound trust in His promises and warnings found throughout the entirety of Scripture. Ultimately, it points to the ultimate judgment to come and the urgent need to find refuge and salvation in God's mercy, which is fully revealed and offered through Jesus Christ, as powerfully articulated in passages such as [Romans 2:5-11](/romans/2-5 "Romans 2:5-11 - God's Righteous Judgment").

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
While Jeremiah 47:2 directly prophesies a specific historical judgment against the Philistines, its potent imagery of an overwhelming, unstoppable flood of divine wrath finds its ultimate theological fulfillment and profound resolution in the person and redemptive work of Jesus Christ. The "waters rising up out of the north," symbolizing an irresistible force of judgment and destruction, powerfully foreshadow the righteous wrath of God against all human sin, rebellion, and unrighteousness. Humanity, in its fallen state, like the Philistines of old, stands condemned and utterly helpless before this divine flood, unable to escape its overwhelming power, inevitably leading to the "cry" and "howl" of despair and eternal separation from God. However, in the person of Jesus Christ, God Himself miraculously provides the ultimate ark of salvation. Jesus, the [Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world](/john/1-29 "John 1:29 - Jesus, the Lamb of God"), voluntarily and perfectly bore the full, unmitigated force of this divine judgment on the cross. He became the one through whom the "overflowing flood" of God's holy wrath was completely absorbed, satisfied, and appeased. For all who place their faith and trust in Him, there is therefore now no condemnation, as the judgment that was justly due to them has already fallen upon Christ (see [Romans 8:1](/romans/8-1 "Romans 8:1 - No Condemnation in Christ Jesus")). He is the ultimate Deliverer, rescuing humanity from the despair, the wailing, and the howling of a world under judgment, offering instead the profound peace, the unshakeable hope, and the promise of eternal life, a glorious reality that echoes the ultimate triumph over death and judgment found in the climactic vision of [Revelation 20:11-15](/revelation/20-11 "Revelation 20:11-15 - The Great White Throne Judgment").

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 15:2

He is gone up to Bajith, and to Dibon, the high places, to weep: Moab shall howl over Nebo, and over Medeba: on all their heads [shall be] baldness, [and] every beard cut off.

Isaiah 15:5

My heart shall cry out for Moab; his fugitives [shall flee] unto Zoar, an heifer of three years old: for by the mounting up of Luhith with weeping shall they go it up; for in the way of Horonaim they shall raise up a cry of destruction.

Isaiah 8:7

Now therefore, behold, the Lord bringeth up upon them the waters of the river, strong and many, [even] the king of Assyria, and all his glory: and he shall come up over all his channels, and go over all his banks:

Isaiah 8:8

And he shall pass through Judah; he shall overflow and go over, he shall reach [even] to the neck; and the stretching out of his wings shall fill the breadth of thy land, O Immanuel.

Jeremiah 8:16

The snorting of his horses was heard from Dan: the whole land trembled at the sound of the neighing of his strong ones; for they are come, and have devoured the land, and all that is in it; the city, and those that dwell therein.

Jeremiah 46:20

Egypt [is like] a very fair heifer, [but] destruction cometh; it cometh out of the north.

Jeremiah 1:14

Then the LORD said unto me, Out of the north an evil shall break forth upon all the inhabitants of the land.