Jeremiah 48:1

KJV

¶ Against Moab thus saith the LORD of hosts, the God of Israel; Woe unto Nebo! for it is spoiled: Kiriathaim is confounded [and] taken: Misgab is confounded and dismayed.

KJV (with Strong's)

Against Moab {H4124} thus saith {H559} the LORD {H3068} of hosts {H6635}, the God {H430} of Israel {H3478}; Woe {H1945} unto Nebo {H5015}! for it is spoiled {H7703}: Kiriathaim {H7156} is confounded {H3001} and taken {H3920}: Misgab {H4869} is confounded {H3001} and dismayed {H2865}.

Complete Jewish Bible

Concerning Mo'av, this is what ADONAI-Tzva'ot, the God of Isra'el, says: "Woe to N'vo, for it is ravaged; Kiryatayim disgraced and captured. Misgav is put to shame, distressed.

Berean Standard Bible

Concerning Moab, this is what the LORD of Hosts, the God of Israel, says: “Woe to Nebo, for it will be devastated. Kiriathaim will be captured and disgraced; the fortress will be shattered and dismantled.

American Standard Version

Of Moab. Thus saith Jehovah of hosts, the God of Israel: Woe unto Nebo! for it is laid waste; Kiriathaim is put to shame, it is taken; Misgab is put to shame and broken down.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Jeremiah 48:1 introduces a solemn prophetic oracle against Moab, declaring the Lord's imminent and devastating judgment upon this neighboring nation. Through a powerful "woe" pronouncement, the verse specifically targets the prominent Moabite cities of Nebo, Kiriathaim, and Misgab, foretelling their utter ruin, profound confusion, and deep dismay. This potent introduction establishes the divine authority behind the coming destruction, underscoring God's universal sovereignty and the inescapable consequences for national pride and opposition to His righteous will.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Jeremiah 48:1 inaugurates an extensive and detailed oracle against Moab, encompassing the entirety of [Jeremiah 48](/jeremiah/48 "Jeremiah 48 - The Oracle Against Moab"). This chapter is strategically placed within a larger collection of prophecies against foreign nations (chapters 46-51) in the Book of Jeremiah. These oracles serve a crucial theological purpose: to demonstrate that the God of Israel is not merely a regional deity but the sovereign Lord over all peoples and kingdoms, exercising His divine judgment beyond the confines of Judah. The inclusion of these foreign nation oracles, particularly after the pronouncements against Judah and Jerusalem, highlights a consistent theme: while God's covenant people face discipline, He also holds the surrounding nations accountable for their wickedness, idolatry, and often, their historical animosity towards Israel. The oracle against Moab is one of the most comprehensive, reflecting the nation's historical significance and its deep-seated pride.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** Moab was an ancient kingdom situated east of the Dead Sea, primarily occupying the fertile plateau between the Arnon and Zered rivers. Their lineage is traced back to Lot, Abraham's nephew, through an incestuous union, as recorded in [Genesis 19:37](/genesis/19-37 "Genesis 19:37 - Origin of Moab"). Throughout their history, Moabites frequently engaged in conflict with Israel, sometimes acting as oppressors (e.g., [Judges 3:12-30](/judges/3-12-30 "Judges 3:12-30 - Eglon, King of Moab, Oppresses Israel")) and at other times forming uneasy alliances. Culturally, they were deeply polytheistic, with Chemosh serving as their chief national god, to whom human sacrifices were occasionally offered. Moab was also renowned for its considerable wealth, agricultural prosperity, and, notably, its immense pride and arrogance, often expressed in their disdain for Israel (cf. [Isaiah 16:6](/isaiah/16-6 "Isaiah 16:6 - Moab's Exorbitant Pride")). The cities mentioned in Jeremiah 48:1—Nebo, Kiriathaim, and Misgab—were significant Moabite strongholds, religious centers, or fortified locations. Nebo, while also a mountain associated with Moses ([Deuteronomy 34:1](/deuteronomy/34-1 "Deuteronomy 34:1 - Moses Views the Promised Land from Nebo")), here refers to a prominent Moabite town or region. Kiriathaim was a major urban center mentioned in relation to the Transjordanian tribes, and Misgab, meaning "high fort" or "refuge," undoubtedly refers to a strategically fortified place.
* **Key Themes:** Jeremiah 48:1 introduces several profound themes that resonate throughout the broader prophecy against Moab and indeed, the entire book of Jeremiah. Firstly, it powerfully asserts **Divine Judgment and Sovereignty**. The emphatic declaration "thus saith the LORD of hosts, the God of Israel" immediately establishes the divine origin and absolute certainty of the prophecy, emphasizing that the God of Israel is the supreme ruler over all nations, not merely His covenant people. This demonstrates His absolute authority to execute judgment on any kingdom, regardless of its perceived strength or security. Secondly, the verse foreshadows **The Inevitable Fall of Pride**, a central and recurring theme in the oracle against Moab. While not explicitly detailed in this opening verse, Moab's downfall is repeatedly attributed to its arrogance and defiance against the Lord and His people (e.g., [Jeremiah 48:29-30](/jeremiah/48-29-30 "Jeremiah 48:29-30 - Moab's Pride and Arrogance")). The "woe" pronouncement serves as a stark signal of the severe consequences of such hubris. Finally, the vivid language of "spoiled," "confounded," "taken," and "dismayed" paints a picture of **Total Devastation**, indicating that the judgment will be comprehensive, leaving Moab utterly humiliated and without hope in its own strength or its false gods.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Woe (Hebrew, _hôwy'_):** This interjection (H1945) is a prolonged form of a word akin to "oh!" or "alas!" It functions as a prophetic exclamation of lament, sorrow, and impending doom. In this context, it is not merely an expression of pity but a powerful pronouncement of divine judgment, signaling severe distress and calamity that is about to befall Nebo and, by extension, the entire nation of Moab. It sets a somber and ominous tone for the entire oracle, indicating irreversible destruction.
* **Confounded (Hebrew, _yâbêsh'_):** Derived from H3001, this root word primarily means "to be ashamed, confused or disappointed." It can also mean "to dry up" or "wither," implying a loss of vitality, strength, or former glory. Here, applied to Kiriathaim and Misgab, it conveys a profound sense of disgrace, humiliation, and utter confusion. It suggests that these cities, perhaps once proud and secure in their defenses, will be utterly shamed and bewildered in the face of their downfall, their former splendor withering away.
* **Dismayed (Hebrew, _châthath'_):** This primitive root (H2865) means "to prostrate" or "to break down," either literally by violence or figuratively by confusion and fear. It encompasses concepts like being afraid, amazed, discouraged, or terrified. When applied to Misgab, it intensifies the description, amplifying the sense of terror and hopelessness that will grip the city's inhabitants. It indicates a complete psychological and physical collapse, a total loss of courage and resolve in the face of overwhelming and inescapable destruction.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"¶ Against Moab thus saith the LORD of hosts, the God of Israel;":** This opening clause immediately and unequivocally identifies the target of the prophecy—Moab—and, more importantly, the ultimate divine source of the message. The formidable titles "the LORD of hosts" (Hebrew: _Yahweh Sabaoth_) and "the God of Israel" emphasize God's immense power, His supreme authority over all creation and all nations, and His covenant relationship with Israel. This establishes the oracle as a divine decree, not a mere human prediction, implying that this judgment is rooted in His perfect justice and His unwavering defense of His people.
* **"Woe unto Nebo! for it is spoiled:":** The pronouncement of "Woe" acts as a solemn, lament-filled declaration of impending doom and sorrow. Nebo, a significant Moabite city, is singled out as the initial recipient of this severe judgment. The word "spoiled" indicates that it will be plundered, ravaged, and laid waste, signifying comprehensive military defeat, economic ruin, and the loss of its very identity. This sets the tone for the widespread and comprehensive destruction to follow.
* **"Kiriathaim is confounded [and] taken:":** Kiriathaim, another key Moabite city, is next in the line of divine judgment. "Confounded" suggests deep shame, disgrace, and utter confusion, implying that its inhabitants will be humiliated and bewildered by the sudden and overwhelming turn of events. The phrase "[and] taken" explicitly states its capture, confirming its fall to an invading force and the complete loss of its autonomy and security.
* **"Misgab is confounded and dismayed.":** Misgab, likely a fortified stronghold or "high place" (as its name suggests, meaning "refuge"), also faces the same fate of being "confounded" or put to shame. The addition of "dismayed" intensifies the description, conveying a profound sense of terror, hopelessness, and psychological collapse. Even places once thought to be impregnable and secure will experience utter demoralization and defeat, highlighting the totality and inescapability of God's judgment on Moab.

#### Literary Devices
Jeremiah 48:1 employs several powerful literary devices to convey its message of impending judgment and its profound impact. The primary device is the **Woe Oracle**, a common prophetic form characterized by the interjection "Woe!" (Hebrew: _hôwy_). This form functions as both a lament over impending disaster and a definitive pronouncement of divine judgment, often serving as a stark warning. Here, it immediately establishes a tone of solemnity and inevitability. **Parallelism** is evident in the repeated structure and similar fates described for the Moabite cities. The pairing of "confounded [and] taken" for Kiriathaim and "confounded and dismayed" for Misgab creates a rhythmic emphasis, underscoring the comprehensive and inescapable nature of the doom. Furthermore, the verse uses **Personification** by attributing human emotions and experiences—being "spoiled," "confounded," and "dismayed"—to inanimate cities. This technique vividly portrays the depth of the suffering and humiliation that the inhabitants of these cities will experience, as their very identity, security, and pride are shattered. The naming of specific cities also functions as **Synecdoche**, where these prominent parts (individual cities) represent the whole (the entire nation of Moab), indicating that the judgment will be widespread and affect all aspects of Moabite society and its perceived strength.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Jeremiah 48:1 powerfully articulates the profound theological truth of God's universal sovereignty and His impartial justice. It demonstrates unequivocally that the Lord, the "God of Israel," is not confined to the affairs of His chosen people but holds ultimate authority over all nations and their destinies. This severe judgment on Moab, a nation historically characterized by its deep-seated pride, idolatry, and animosity towards Israel, serves as a stark reminder that no kingdom, however strong, prosperous, or self-assured, can escape divine accountability for its rebellion against God or its opposition to His righteous purposes. The "woe" pronouncement underscores the severity of divine wrath against sin, particularly against the arrogance that exalts itself against the Creator. It foreshadows the ultimate consequences of human pride and self-sufficiency, which inevitably lead to shame, ruin, and utter dismay.

* [Isaiah 13:6](/isaiah/13-6 "Isaiah 13:6 - Woe for the Day of the Lord")
* [Psalm 9:17](/psalm/9-17 "Psalm 9:17 - The Wicked Shall Be Turned into Hell")
* [Proverbs 16:18](/proverbs/16-18 "Proverbs 16:18 - Pride Goes Before Destruction")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Jeremiah 48:1 stands as a timeless declaration of God's unyielding justice and His absolute sovereignty over all earthly powers. In a world where nations rise and fall, and human pride often seeks to defy divine authority, this verse serves as a profound reminder that ultimate control rests not with empires or their leaders, but with the "LORD of hosts." For us today, it underscores the certainty of divine judgment for those who persist in rebellion, idolatry, and arrogance against God. It challenges us to examine our own hearts, our communities, and our societies, asking where we might be placing our trust in human strength, material wealth, or transient ideologies rather than in the one true God. The tragic fate of Moabite cities, once symbols of security and pride but now destined for shame and dismay, calls us to cultivate humility, acknowledge God's supreme authority, and seek our true refuge not in earthly strongholds but in Him alone. This prophecy compels us to live in reverent fear of the Lord, recognizing that genuine security, lasting peace, and ultimate hope are found only in humble alignment with His righteous and sovereign will.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what areas of my personal life or in my society do I observe pride or self-sufficiency challenging God's authority or His revealed truth?**
* **How does the concept of God's universal sovereignty, as powerfully demonstrated in His judgment on Moab, shape my understanding of current global events and geopolitical shifts?**
* **What "strongholds" or sources of security (e.g., finances, reputation, human wisdom) do I primarily rely on that might ultimately leave me "confounded and dismayed" if not firmly rooted in God?**
* **How can understanding God's impartial justice and His ultimate judgment motivate me towards greater humility, sincere repentance, and a deeper reliance on His grace?**

### FAQ
**What is the significance of "the LORD of hosts, the God of Israel" in this verse?**

Answer: This dual title is profoundly significant. "The LORD of hosts" (Hebrew: _Yahweh Sabaoth_) emphasizes God's immense power and authority as the divine commander of heavenly armies and the supreme ruler over all creation. It highlights His omnipotence in executing His will, whether in judgment or salvation, demonstrating that no earthly force can withstand Him. "The God of Israel" underscores His unique covenant relationship with His chosen people, implying that His actions against other nations are often related to their treatment of Israel or their defiance of the moral order He established. Together, these titles assert that the coming judgment on Moab is not a random event or a mere human conflict, but a deliberate, righteous decree from the all-powerful and sovereign God who governs all nations, not just Israel.

**Why are specific cities like Nebo, Kiriathaim, and Misgab mentioned?**

Answer: The mention of specific cities serves several crucial purposes within the prophetic oracle. Firstly, it adds a layer of concrete detail and immediacy to the prophecy, making the impending destruction feel more real, unavoidable, and comprehensive. These were likely prominent or symbolic cities within Moabite territory, perhaps known for their strength, wealth, or religious significance. Nebo, for instance, was a significant mountain and possibly a city with religious importance. Kiriathaim was a major urban center, and Misgab, meaning "high fort" or "refuge," suggests a place of perceived impregnable security. By naming them, Jeremiah emphasizes that no part of Moab, no matter how fortified, prosperous, or religiously significant, will escape the sweeping judgment. It highlights the totality of the devastation that will fall upon the entire nation, from its spiritual centers to its military strongholds, leaving no place of refuge.

**What does "confounded and dismayed" mean for these cities?**

Answer: The terms "confounded" (Hebrew: _yâbêsh_) and "dismayed" (Hebrew: _châthath_) vividly describe the profound psychological and emotional impact of the impending judgment on Moab. "Confounded" implies deep shame, humiliation, and utter confusion. It suggests that Moab's notorious pride will be utterly shattered, and its people will be left bewildered and disgraced as their perceived strength and security crumble. Their former glory will "wither away." "Dismayed" intensifies this description, conveying a profound sense of terror, hopelessness, and psychological collapse. It paints a picture of a people utterly prostrated by fear and despair, their spirit broken by the overwhelming force of divine judgment. Together, these words underscore not just physical destruction but also the complete moral, emotional, and spiritual collapse of Moab, leaving its inhabitants without courage or hope.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Jeremiah 48:1, with its pronouncement of "woe" and inevitable judgment upon Moab, finds its ultimate fulfillment and profound transformation in the person and redemptive work of Jesus Christ. The "LORD of hosts, the God of Israel," who exercises sovereign judgment over all nations, is the same God eternally revealed in Christ. While Moab faced "woe" for its national pride, idolatry, and rebellion, humanity as a whole stood under a far greater, universal "woe" due to its pervasive sin and rebellion against God (cf. [Romans 3:23](/romans/3-23 "Romans 3:23 - All Have Sinned")). Jesus, the [Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world](/john/1-29 "John 1:29 - Jesus, the Lamb of God"), willingly took upon Himself the "woe" and the judgment due to humanity's sin, becoming a curse for us so that we might receive the blessing of God's grace and righteousness (cf. [Galatians 3:13](/galatians/3-13 "Galatians 3:13 - Christ Redeemed Us from the Curse")). The cities of Nebo, Kiriathaim, and Misgab, once symbols of Moabite strength and perceived refuge, were destined to be "confounded and dismayed." In stark contrast, Christ offers Himself as the true and eternal "refuge" for all who trust in Him, a secure "Misgab" that will never be confounded or fall (cf. [Psalm 46:1](/psalm/46-1 "Psalm 46:1 - God is Our Refuge and Strength") and [Hebrews 6:18](/hebrews/6-18 "Hebrews 6:18 - Refuge in Hope")). His everlasting kingdom, unlike transient earthly kingdoms, will never be "taken" or "spoiled" by any invading force ([Daniel 2:44](/daniel/2-44 "Daniel 2:44 - God's Kingdom Endures Forever")). Ultimately, the judgment pronounced on Moab serves as a powerful foreshadowing of the final judgment awaiting all who reject God's authority, but it also magnifies the boundless grace of Christ, who offers an escape from that judgment and an everlasting dwelling in His unshakeable kingdom for all who believe and find their refuge in Him (cf. [Revelation 20:11-15](/revelation/20-11-15 "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

Jeremiah 48:22

And upon Dibon, and upon Nebo, and upon Bethdiblathaim,

Jeremiah 48:23

And upon Kiriathaim, and upon Bethgamul, and upon Bethmeon,

Numbers 32:37

And the children of Reuben built Heshbon, and Elealeh, and Kirjathaim,

Numbers 32:38

And Nebo, and Baalmeon, (their names being changed,) and Shibmah: and gave other names unto the cities which they builded.

Numbers 32:3

Ataroth, and Dibon, and Jazer, and Nimrah, and Heshbon, and Elealeh, and Shebam, and Nebo, and Beon,

Amos 2:1

¶ Thus saith the LORD; For three transgressions of Moab, and for four, I will not turn away [the punishment] thereof; because he burned the bones of the king of Edom into lime:

Amos 2:2

But I will send a fire upon Moab, and it shall devour the palaces of Kerioth: and Moab shall die with tumult, with shouting, [and] with the sound of the trumpet: