Jeremiah 48:2

KJV

[There shall be] no more praise of Moab: in Heshbon they have devised evil against it; come, and let us cut it off from [being] a nation. Also thou shalt be cut down, O Madmen; the sword shall pursue thee.

KJV (with Strong's)

There shall be no more praise {H8416} of Moab {H4124}: in Heshbon {H2809} they have devised {H2803} evil {H7451} against it; come {H3212}, and let us cut it off {H3772} from being a nation {H1471}. Also thou shalt be cut down {H1826}, O Madmen {H4086}; the sword {H2719} shall pursue {H3212} thee {H310}.

Complete Jewish Bible

"In Mo'av, nothing is left to praise. At Heshbon they plotted her downfall: 'Come, we'll cut her off as a nation.' You too, Madmein, will be silenced; the sword pursues behind you.

Berean Standard Bible

There is no longer praise for Moab; in Heshbon they devise evil against her: ‘Come, let us cut her off from nationhood.’ You too, O people of Madmen, will be silenced; the sword will pursue you.

American Standard Version

The praise of Moab is no more; in Heshbon they have devised evil against her: Come, and let us cut her off from being a nation. Thou also, O Madmen, shalt be brought to silence; the sword shall pursue thee.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Jeremiah 48:2 pronounces a definitive end to Moab's esteemed status and national identity, declaring that its former glory and reputation will cease. The verse reveals a sinister plot devised in Heshbon to utterly dismantle Moab as a nation, culminating in a relentless pursuit by the sword that will even silence cities like Madmen, underscoring the comprehensive and inescapable nature of God's judgment upon a proud and idolatrous people.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Jeremiah 48 is a comprehensive oracle of judgment against Moab, forming part of a larger collection of prophecies against foreign nations found in [Jeremiah 46-51](/jeremiah/46 "Jeremiah 46-51 - Oracles Against Foreign Nations"). This section demonstrates Yahweh's universal sovereignty, proving that His authority extends beyond Israel to encompass all peoples and their destinies. Within this chapter, verse 2 specifically introduces the theme of Moab's utter humiliation and the active role of its enemies, setting the stage for the detailed descriptions of devastation that follow, impacting various cities and regions of Moab. The pronouncements are often poetic and highly descriptive, emphasizing the totality of the impending destruction.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** Moab was an ancient nation located east of the Dead Sea, often in conflict or uneasy alliance with Israel. Descended from Lot ([Genesis 19:37](/genesis/19-37 "Genesis 19:37 - Origin of Moab")), they were known for their pride, wealth, and deep-seated idolatry, particularly the worship of the detestable god Chemosh ([Numbers 21:29](/numbers/21-29 "Numbers 21:29 - Chemosh, the God of Moab")). Their fertile lands and strategic position made them a target for various regional powers, including Assyria and Babylon. Heshbon, mentioned in the verse, was a significant city, originally Amorite, later Moabite, and sometimes claimed by Reuben, situated on a key trade route and serving as a strategic hub. Madmen is another Moabite city, likely a less prominent one, whose inclusion emphasizes the widespread nature of the judgment, affecting both major and minor settlements. The "devised evil" likely refers to the military strategies of conquering powers, often Babylon, whom God would use as instruments of His wrath.

* **Key Themes:** This verse powerfully contributes to several overarching themes within Jeremiah and the prophetic literature. Firstly, it underscores the theme of **Divine Judgment** against national pride and idolatry, illustrating that no nation, however seemingly secure, is exempt from God's righteous wrath when it opposes His will or exalts itself. Secondly, it highlights the **End of National Identity and Praise**, as Moab's reputation and very existence as a distinct entity are threatened. This loss of "praise" contrasts sharply with Moab's historical self-exaltation, a theme also prominent in [Isaiah 16:6](/isaiah/16-6 "Isaiah 16:6 - Moab's Pride"). Thirdly, the verse reveals God's use of **Human Agents in Judgment**, as the enemies "devise evil," demonstrating that even the malicious intentions of nations can serve God's ultimate sovereign purposes. Finally, the repeated emphasis on "cutting off" and "pursuit by the sword" signifies **Total Desolation and Inescapable Consequence**, a recurring motif in prophecies of judgment against those who defy the Almighty.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **praise (Hebrew, _tᵉhillâh'_):** (H8416) This word denotes laudation or a hymn, often referring to a song of praise to God. In the context of Moab, it signifies their reputation, glory, or the accolades they received or sought among nations. The declaration "no more praise of Moab" means the complete cessation of their esteemed status, their national pride, and any recognition of their former achievements or strength. It implies a stripping away of their honor and a descent into ignominy.
* **devised (Hebrew, _châshab'_):** (H2803) A primitive root meaning "to plait or interpenetrate," figuratively "to plot or contrive," often in a malicious sense. It implies careful, deliberate planning and calculation. When applied to Heshbon, it indicates that the enemies of Moab were not acting impulsively but had thoughtfully and strategically plotted the nation's downfall, intending great harm and destruction. This highlights the premeditated nature of the assault against Moab.
* **nation (Hebrew, _gôwy'_):** (H1471) Refers to a foreign nation or Gentile people, sometimes figuratively a troop. Here, it denotes Moab's status as a distinct political and ethnic entity. The phrase "cut it off from being a a nation" signifies the complete obliteration of Moab's national sovereignty, independence, and unique identity on the world stage. It's not merely a defeat but an existential threat, aiming for their disappearance as a recognized people.
* **cut down (Hebrew, _dâmam'_):** (H1826) A primitive root meaning "to be dumb," "astonished," "to stop," or "to perish." In this context, it conveys the idea of being silenced, brought to an end, or utterly destroyed. Applied to Madmen, it emphasizes the sudden and complete cessation of life, activity, and existence in that specific city, highlighting the pervasive and devastating impact of the judgment across Moabite territory.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"[There shall be] no more praise of Moab:** This opening clause declares the definitive end of Moab's former glory, reputation, and any reason for self-exaltation. It signifies a profound humiliation and the stripping away of its standing among nations, contrasting sharply with its notorious pride.
* **in Heshbon they have devised evil against it;**: This identifies the source of the malicious planning. Heshbon, a significant city within or near Moabite territory, becomes the strategic center where Moab's enemies (likely the Babylonians, acting as God's instruments) meticulously plot its destruction. The "evil" refers to a comprehensive plan for military conquest and devastation.
* **come, and let us cut it off from [being] a nation.:** This is the direct command or declaration of the enemies' intent, reflecting their resolve to utterly annihilate Moab's national identity and sovereignty. "Cutting off from being a nation" implies total dismemberment, loss of independence, and the cessation of its existence as a distinct political entity.
* **Also thou shalt be cut down, O Madmen; the sword shall pursue thee.":** This final clause personalizes the judgment, addressing a specific Moabite city, Madmen. It reinforces the theme of complete destruction ("cut down," implying silence or death) and the relentless, inescapable nature of the military pursuit by the "sword," symbolizing violent conquest and death. The judgment is not just national but impacts individual cities and their inhabitants.

#### Literary Devices
Jeremiah 48:2 employs several potent literary devices to convey the severity of Moab's impending judgment. **Personification** is evident in "praise of Moab," where "praise" (an abstract concept) is treated as something that can cease, implying Moab itself will no longer be worthy of commendation or even existence as a distinct entity. The phrase "in Heshbon they have devised evil" uses **Metonymy**, where Heshbon, a city, stands for the enemies or forces gathered within it who are planning the destruction. The entire verse functions as a form of **Prophetic Oracle**, a divine pronouncement delivered through the prophet, characterized by its declarative and authoritative tone. The repetition of the concept of "cutting off" ("cut it off from being a nation," "shalt be cut down") serves as **Anaphora** or a strong **Repetitive Motif**, powerfully emphasizing the totality and finality of Moab's destruction. Furthermore, the image of "the sword shall pursue thee" is a vivid example of **Personification**, giving the inanimate sword an active, relentless quality, underscoring the inescapable nature of the judgment.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Jeremiah 48:2 powerfully illustrates God's absolute sovereignty over the nations, demonstrating that His judgment extends beyond Israel to encompass all peoples. It serves as a stark reminder that national pride, idolatry, and self-sufficiency ultimately lead to divine reckoning. Moab's downfall, meticulously planned by human adversaries but ultimately orchestrated by God, highlights that even the malicious intentions of men are subservient to His overarching purposes. This verse underscores the transient nature of earthly power and reputation when contrasted with the enduring power of God's word and His unwavering commitment to justice. The cessation of Moab's "praise" signifies the stripping away of all that they boasted in, revealing the emptiness of glory apart from God.

* [Isaiah 16:6](/isaiah/16-6 "Isaiah 16:6 - Moab's Pride and Arrogance") - "We have heard of the pride of Moab; he is exceeding proud: his loftiness, and his pride, and his wrath, but his lies shall not be so."
* [Psalm 33:10-11](/psalm/33-10 "Psalm 33:10-11 - God's Sovereignty Over Nations") - "The LORD bringeth the counsel of the heathen to nought: he maketh the devices of the people of none effect. The counsel of the LORD standeth for ever, the thoughts of his heart to all generations."
* [Daniel 2:21](/daniel/2-21 "Daniel 2:21 - God Changes Times and Seasons") - "And he changeth the times and the seasons: he removeth kings, and setteth up kings: he giveth wisdom unto the wise, and knowledge to them that know understanding."

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Jeremiah 48:2 offers profound lessons for contemporary believers and nations alike. It serves as a powerful warning against the dangers of national pride, self-sufficiency, and the worship of anything other than the one true God. Just as Moab boasted in its wealth and strength, modern societies often place their trust in economic power, military might, or technological advancement, forgetting their ultimate dependence on God. This verse reminds us that all earthly glory is fleeting and can be swiftly brought to nothing by divine decree. For individuals, it calls for humility, urging us not to boast in our achievements or status, but to recognize that true praise and lasting security come only from God. It also reinforces the truth that God remains sovereign over all global events, using even the schemes of wicked men to accomplish His righteous purposes. Therefore, our ultimate hope and allegiance must rest in His eternal kingdom, not in the shifting sands of earthly powers.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **What are the "praises" or sources of pride that my nation or I tend to boast in today, apart from God?**
* **How does the idea of God using "devised evil" for His purposes challenge or affirm my understanding of His sovereignty and justice?**
* **In what ways might I be placing my security in temporary earthly structures rather than in God's eternal kingdom?**
* **What does this verse teach me about the ultimate end of all who oppose God or live in defiant pride?**

### FAQ
**What was Moab's primary sin that led to this judgment?**

Answer: Moab's primary sins included excessive pride, self-sufficiency, and deep-seated idolatry, particularly the worship of Chemosh. They often boasted in their wealth and perceived strength, showing contempt for God's people and His ways. This pride and idolatry are recurring themes in the prophetic condemnations against them, as seen in [Isaiah 16:6](/isaiah/16-6 "Isaiah 16:6 - Moab's Arrogance") and [Jeremiah 48:29](/jeremiah/48-29 "Jeremiah 48:29 - Moab's Great Pride").

**Who are "they" in Heshbon who devised evil against Moab?**

Answer: While the verse doesn't explicitly name them, the broader context of Jeremiah's prophecies against nations (Jeremiah 46-51) indicates that God would use the rising superpower of Babylon as His instrument of judgment. Therefore, "they" refers to the Babylonian forces and their strategists who would plan and execute the conquest of Moab, fulfilling God's predetermined judgment.

**Did Moab truly cease to be a nation?**

Answer: Yes, in the long term, Moab as a distinct political and ethnic entity eventually disappeared from history, absorbed into larger empires and losing its unique identity. While there might have been temporary periods of resurgence or habitation in the region, the prophetic declaration of being "cut off from being a nation" ultimately came to pass, signifying the end of their independent sovereignty and recognized national status. This fulfilled the divine decree that their "praise" would be no more.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Jeremiah 48:2, with its declaration of judgment against Moab's pride and the cessation of its praise, finds its ultimate Christ-centered fulfillment in the establishment of God's eternal kingdom, which stands in stark contrast to the fleeting nature of earthly kingdoms. The "no more praise of Moab" foreshadows the ultimate dismantling of all human systems and powers that exalt themselves against God. Christ, as the true King, came not to establish an earthly dominion built on pride and military might, but a spiritual kingdom founded on humility, sacrifice, and divine love ([John 18:36](/john/18-36 "John 18:36 - Jesus' Kingdom Not of This World")). The "evil devised" against Moab by human agents, yet orchestrated by God, points to the cross, where the ultimate "evil" was devised by humanity against God's Son, yet God sovereignly used it for the greatest good—the salvation of humanity ([Acts 2:23](/acts/2-23 "Acts 2:23 - God's Plan in Christ's Crucifixion")). All earthly "nations" and their "praise" will eventually bow before the [Lamb of God](/revelation/5-13 "Revelation 5:13 - All Creation Worships the Lamb"), whose praise endures forever. The "sword" that pursues Moab finds its spiritual counterpart in the "sword" of God's word, which judges all unrighteousness ([Hebrews 4:12](/hebrews/4-12 "Hebrews 4:12 - The Word of God is Living and Active")), and ultimately in the righteous judgment executed by Christ upon all who reject His rule at His second coming ([Revelation 19:15](/revelation/19-15 "Revelation 19:15 - Christ's Judgment at His Return")). Thus, Jeremiah 48:2 serves as a powerful reminder that all human glory fades, but the glory of Christ and His kingdom is eternal.

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 16:14

But now the LORD hath spoken, saying, Within three years, as the years of an hireling, and the glory of Moab shall be contemned, with all that great multitude; and the remnant [shall be] very small [and] feeble.

Numbers 32:37

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

Jeremiah 31:36

If those ordinances depart from before me, saith the LORD, [then] the seed of Israel also shall cease from being a nation before me for ever.

Jeremiah 48:34

From the cry of Heshbon [even] unto Elealeh, [and even] unto Jahaz, have they uttered their voice, from Zoar [even] unto Horonaim, [as] an heifer of three years old: for the waters also of Nimrim shall be desolate.

Jeremiah 48:35

Moreover I will cause to cease in Moab, saith the LORD, him that offereth in the high places, and him that burneth incense to his gods.

Isaiah 15:1

¶ The burden of Moab. Because in the night Ar of Moab is laid waste, [and] brought to silence; because in the night Kir of Moab is laid waste, [and] brought to silence;

Jeremiah 48:17

All ye that are about him, bemoan him; and all ye that know his name, say, How is the strong staff broken, [and] the beautiful rod!