Jeremiah 47:3

KJV

At the noise of the stamping of the hoofs of his strong [horses], at the rushing of his chariots, [and at] the rumbling of his wheels, the fathers shall not look back to [their] children for feebleness of hands;

KJV (with Strong's)

At the noise {H6963} of the stamping {H8161} of the hoofs {H6541} of his strong {H47} horses, at the rushing {H7494} of his chariots {H7393}, and at the rumbling {H1995} of his wheels {H1534}, the fathers {H1} shall not look back {H6437} to their children {H1121} for feebleness {H7510} of hands {H3027};

Complete Jewish Bible

at the thunderous pound of his stallions' hoofs, at his rattling chariots' rumbling wheels. Fathers fail to turn back for their children; instead, their hands hang limp,

Berean Standard Bible

at the sound of the galloping hooves of stallions, the rumbling of chariots, and the clatter of their wheels. The fathers will not turn back for their sons; their hands will hang limp.

American Standard Version

At the noise of the stamping of the hoofs of his strong ones, at the rushing of his chariots, at the rumbling of his wheels, the fathers look not back to their children for feebleness of hands;

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Jeremiah 47:3 vividly portrays the overwhelming terror and paralyzing impact of an impending invasion upon the Philistine people. Through a powerful auditory and visual depiction of a mighty army's advance, the verse illustrates such profound fear that fathers are unable to even glance back at their own children, their hands rendered utterly feeble. This serves as a stark prophetic declaration of divine judgment executed through an unstoppable military force, highlighting the complete breakdown of natural human instincts and societal order in the face of overwhelming destruction.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Jeremiah 47 is part of a larger section in the book of Jeremiah, specifically chapters 46-51, which contain "Oracles Against the Nations." These prophecies demonstrate Yahweh's sovereignty not only over Israel and Judah but over all surrounding nations. Chapter 47 focuses entirely on the Philistines, a long-standing enemy and neighbor of Israel. This oracle immediately follows prophecies against Egypt ([Jeremiah 46](/jeremiah/46 "Jeremiah 46 - Prophecy Against Egypt")) and precedes those against Moab ([Jeremiah 48](/jeremiah/48 "Jeremiah 48 - Prophecy Against Moab")) and Ammon ([Jeremiah 49:1-6](/jeremiah/49-1 "Jeremiah 49:1-6 - Prophecy Against Ammon")). The placement emphasizes that no nation, regardless of its strength or historical relationship with Israel, is exempt from God's righteous judgment. The verse itself is part of a dramatic description of the invasion's sensory impact, setting the stage for the destruction of Philistine cities like Gaza and Ashkelon.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The Philistines were a formidable people settled along the southwestern coast of Canaan, known for their military prowess and control over key trade routes. Their major cities—Gaza, Ashkelon, Ashdod, Ekron, and Gath—were strategic strongholds. Historically, they were often antagonists to Israel, from the time of the Judges through the monarchy. The "invading force from the north" mentioned in this chapter is widely understood by scholars to be the Neo-Babylonian Empire under King Nebuchadnezzar. During the late 7th and early 6th centuries BCE, Nebuchadnezzar systematically conquered nations in the Levant, including Judah, as part of his imperial expansion. The Philistine cities, being on the route to Egypt, were particularly vulnerable. The imagery of horses, chariots, and wheels reflects the standard military technology of powerful ancient empires, designed to instill terror and achieve rapid, overwhelming conquest. The cultural expectation of fathers protecting their children makes their paralysis in this verse particularly poignant, emphasizing the extreme nature of the fear.

* **Key Themes:** This verse powerfully contributes to several overarching themes within Jeremiah and the prophetic literature. Firstly, it underscores the theme of **Divine Sovereignty and Judgment**, illustrating that God uses nations, even pagan ones like Babylon, as instruments of His judgment against others who have defied His moral order or oppressed His people. The invasion is not a random historical event but a divinely orchestrated act. Secondly, the verse highlights the **Terror and Despair of Judgment**, vividly depicting the psychological impact of overwhelming military might. The "feebleness of hands" and the fathers' inability to "look back to their children" portray a complete collapse of courage and natural protective instincts, signifying utter helplessness and the breakdown of societal bonds in the face of imminent doom. This imagery reinforces the severity of God's wrath when it is unleashed. Finally, it speaks to the **Reliability of Prophetic Word**, as Jeremiah's pronouncements concerning the Philistines were indeed fulfilled through the Babylonian conquests, demonstrating the faithfulness and power of God's declarations, as seen in other fulfilled prophecies like those against Tyre in [Ezekiel 26](/ekeziel/26 "Ezekiel 26 - Prophecy Against Tyre").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **rumbling (Hebrew, _hâmôwn'_):** This word (H1995) signifies a "noise, tumult, crowd; also disquietude, wealth." In this context, it specifically refers to the deep, resonant sound of the approaching army, particularly the "rumbling of his wheels." It conveys a sense of overwhelming auditory assault, indicating the sheer size and momentum of the invading force. The word itself suggests a chaotic, disquieting sound that precedes and accompanies a great multitude or commotion, contributing to the terror described.
* **look back (Hebrew, _pânâh'_):** The verb (H6437) means "to turn; by implication, to face, i.e. appear, look." Here, it describes the fathers' inability to turn their heads or direct their attention back towards their children. This is not merely a physical inability but a profound psychological paralysis. The terror is so absolute that even the primal instinct to protect or acknowledge one's offspring is overridden, signifying a complete surrender to fear and despair, an abandonment of the most fundamental human bond.
* **feebleness (Hebrew, _riphyôwn'_):** This noun (H7510) derives from a root meaning "to slacken" and denotes "slackness" or "feebleness." When combined with "hands" (H3027, _yâd_), it forms an idiom for extreme weakness, helplessness, or paralysis. It's not just a lack of physical strength, but a complete inability to act, resist, or even respond due to overwhelming fear. This "feebleness of hands" encapsulates the utter despair and powerlessness of the Philistines in the face of the Babylonian onslaught.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"At the noise of the stamping of the hoofs of his strong horses,"**: This clause immediately plunges the listener into the sensory experience of the approaching army. The "noise" (H6963, _qôwl_) combined with "stamping" (H8161, _shaʻăṭâh_) and "hoofs" (H6541, _parçâh_) creates a powerful onomatopoeic image of a vast cavalry. The "strong horses" (H47, _ʼabbîyr_) emphasize the might and vigor of the invading force, suggesting an unstoppable momentum.
* **"at the rushing of his chariots, and at the rumbling of his wheels,"**: The auditory assault continues and intensifies. "Rushing" (H7494, _raʻash_) implies a violent vibration or bounding motion, specifically from the "chariots" (H7393, _rekeb_), the ancient world's primary weapon of rapid assault. The "rumbling of his wheels" (H1534, _galgal_) adds to the deep, pervasive sound of a massive, coordinated military machine, creating a sense of inescapable doom.
* **"the fathers shall not look back to their children"**: This is the devastating human consequence of the terrifying sounds. The "fathers" (H1, _ʼâb_), who are culturally expected to be protectors and providers, are so overwhelmed by fear that they cannot even turn their heads to acknowledge or save their "children" (H1121, _bên_). This signifies a complete psychological breakdown, where the most fundamental parental instincts are overridden by terror.
* **"for feebleness of hands;"**: This final clause explains the reason for the fathers' inaction. Their "hands" (H3027, _yâd_), symbols of strength, action, and capability, are rendered "feeble" (H7510, _riphyôwn_). This is not a physical injury but a profound paralysis born of terror, leaving them utterly helpless and unable to offer any resistance or aid, even to their own offspring.

#### Literary Devices
Jeremiah 47:3 employs several potent **Literary Devices** to convey its message. **Onomatopoeia** is prominently used through words like "stamping," "rushing," and "rumbling," which mimic the sounds of the approaching army, immersing the reader in the terrifying auditory experience. This sensory detail makes the threat feel immediate and overwhelming. The description of the fathers' paralysis is a form of **Hyperbole**, exaggerating the extent of their fear to emphasize the absolute terror inspired by the invasion; while some might genuinely be too terrified to act, the complete inability to "look back" even at one's children underscores a profound, almost unnatural, level of despair. Finally, there is a strong element of **Pathos** or **Tragic Irony** in the image of fathers abandoning their children. In ancient societies, the protection of one's family, especially children, was a paramount duty and instinct. The fact that this fundamental bond breaks down due to "feebleness of hands" highlights the utter devastation and moral collapse brought about by the judgment, making the scene deeply sorrowful and impactful.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Jeremiah 47:3 serves as a profound theological statement on God's active involvement in the affairs of nations and His unwavering commitment to justice. The terrifying invasion of the Philistines is not a random act of war but a divinely ordained judgment, demonstrating that even powerful nations outside of the covenant people are accountable to the sovereign God of Israel. This passage underscores that God uses historical events, including the rise and fall of empires, to execute His purposes and bring about His righteous decrees. The overwhelming nature of the judgment, leading to such profound human despair and the breakdown of natural bonds, illustrates the seriousness of sin and the fearsome consequences of defying the Almighty. It reveals a God who is not distant or passive but one who actively intervenes in human history to uphold justice and fulfill His prophetic word.

* [Isaiah 13:6-8](/isaiah/13-6 "Isaiah 13:6-8 - Terror of the Day of the Lord"): Describes the terror and anguish that will grip people on the day of the Lord, where hands will go limp and hearts will melt, mirroring the "feebleness of hands" in Jeremiah.
* [Nahum 3:1-3](/nahum/3-1 "Nahum 3:1-3 - Woes of Nineveh's Destruction"): Provides another vivid, sensory description of a city's destruction through military might, focusing on the "noise of the whip, and the noise of the rattling of the wheels, and of the prancing horses, and of the jumping chariots."
* [Lamentations 2:20](/lamentations/2-20 "Lamentations 2:20 - Mothers Eating Children"): While more extreme, this verse from Lamentations captures the ultimate horror and breakdown of parental bonds during divine judgment, illustrating the depths of despair that can lead to unnatural acts.

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Jeremiah 47:3 offers sobering truths that transcend its historical context, inviting us to reflect on God's sovereignty, the nature of judgment, and our response to it. Firstly, it powerfully reminds us that God is ultimately in control of all nations and historical events. Empires rise and fall at His command, and even the most formidable human powers are but instruments in His hand. This should instill a profound sense of awe and reverence for His omnipotence. Secondly, the verse serves as a stark warning about the consequences of persistent sin and rebellion against God's moral order. The terror and paralysis experienced by the Philistines illustrate the severity of divine judgment, prompting us to consider the seriousness with which God views injustice and idolatry. For us today, it calls for introspection: are there areas in our lives, our communities, or our nations where we are defying God's will? Finally, while the image is one of despair, it implicitly points to the need for repentance and seeking refuge in God. If judgment is so terrifying, then the mercy offered through faith in God's provision becomes even more precious. It encourages us to live lives that honor God, knowing that true security is found not in human strength or alliances, but in His unfailing protection.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does the imagery of sound and paralysis in Jeremiah 47:3 challenge our modern assumptions about security and control?**
* **What does the "feebleness of hands" in the face of judgment teach us about the limits of human strength and self-reliance?**
* **In what ways might we, individually or corporately, be prone to the kind of spiritual "feebleness" that prevents us from responding rightly to God's warnings or calls to action?**
* **How does understanding God's sovereignty over all nations, as depicted in this judgment against the Philistines, shape our prayers and perspectives on global events?**

### FAQ
**Who is the "he" or "his" referring to in this verse, whose horses, chariots, and wheels are causing such terror?**

Answer: The "he" or "his" refers to the invading force, specifically the Neo-Babylonian Empire under King Nebuchadnezzar. While not explicitly named in this verse, the broader context of Jeremiah's prophecies against nations, particularly the consistent theme of an invader from the north, points directly to Babylon. This formidable empire was God's chosen instrument to execute judgment upon the Philistines and other nations in the region, as also seen in prophecies against Judah in [Jeremiah 25:9](/jeremiah/25-9 "Jeremiah 25:9 - Nebuchadnezzar as God's Servant").

**Why are the fathers described as not looking back to their children? What does this signify?**

Answer: The fathers' inability to look back at their children signifies an extreme and profound level of terror and paralysis. In ancient societies, fathers were the protectors and heads of the household, with a natural instinct to defend and care for their offspring. Their failure to even glance back indicates that the fear of the approaching army is so overwhelming and absolute that it overrides even the most primal parental instincts. It illustrates a complete breakdown of courage, responsibility, and societal order, leading to utter helplessness and despair in the face of inescapable doom, highlighting the severity of the impending judgment.

**What is the significance of "feebleness of hands" in this context?**

Answer: "Feebleness of hands" is an idiom in Hebrew that signifies extreme weakness, helplessness, or paralysis, not just physically but often psychologically. In this verse, it means that the Philistines, specifically the fathers, are so overcome with fear that they are utterly unable to act, resist, or even offer comfort or aid. Their hands, symbols of strength, work, and capability, are rendered useless. This emphasizes the complete and utter powerlessness of the Philistines in the face of God's judgment executed through the Babylonian army, leaving them without any means of defense or escape.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Jeremiah 47:3, while a prophecy of judgment against the Philistines, finds its ultimate Christ-centered fulfillment not in a direct historical event but in the profound theological themes it unveils concerning divine sovereignty, judgment, and the desperate need for a true deliverer. The terrifying sounds of the invading army and the paralyzing fear that renders fathers helpless foreshadow the ultimate judgment that awaits all humanity apart from Christ. The "feebleness of hands" that cannot save one's own children points to humanity's utter inability to save itself from the consequences of sin or the wrath of a holy God. Yet, in Christ, this terrifying reality is transformed. He is the ultimate refuge, the one who faced the full "noise" and "rumbling" of divine wrath on the cross, not with "feebleness of hands," but with resolute strength and perfect obedience. He absorbed the judgment, becoming the [Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world](/john/1-29 "John 1:29 - Jesus, the Lamb of God"), so that those who trust in Him might never experience the paralyzing terror of God's final judgment. The sovereignty of God, so powerfully displayed in the judgment of nations like Philistia, is ultimately revealed in Christ's triumph over sin and death, establishing His eternal kingdom. While earthly powers bring destruction, Christ offers salvation and peace, inviting all to find refuge in His strong hands, which were pierced for our redemption, offering a hope that no earthly invasion can ever diminish ([Romans 5:1](/romans/5-1 "Romans 5:1 - Peace with God Through Faith")). He is the one who will ultimately return, not as an instrument of terror for His own, but as the [King of kings and Lord of lords](/revelation/19-16 "Revelation 19:16 - King of Kings and Lord of Lords"), bringing final justice and ushering in an eternal reign where there will be no more fear, only the secure embrace of God's presence ([Revelation 21:4](/revelation/21-4 "Revelation 21:4 - No More Tears or Death")).

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 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.

Judges 5:22

Then were the horsehoofs broken by the means of the pransings, the pransings of their mighty ones.

Nahum 3:2

The noise of a whip, and the noise of the rattling of the wheels, and of the pransing horses, and of the jumping chariots.

Nahum 3:3

The horseman lifteth up both the bright sword and the glittering spear: and [there is] a multitude of slain, and a great number of carcases; and [there is] none end of [their] corpses; they stumble upon their corpses:

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.

Ezekiel 26:11

With the hoofs of his horses shall he tread down all thy streets: he shall slay thy people by the sword, and thy strong garrisons shall go down to the ground.

Nahum 2:4

The chariots shall rage in the streets, they shall justle one against another in the broad ways: they shall seem like torches, they shall run like the lightnings.