Jeremiah 48:27

KJV

For was not Israel a derision unto thee? was he found among thieves? for since thou spakest of him, thou skippedst for joy.

KJV (with Strong's)

For was not Israel {H3478} a derision {H7814} unto thee? was he found {H4672} among thieves {H1590}? for since {H1767} thou spakest {H1697} of him, thou skippedst {H5110} for joy.

Complete Jewish Bible

After all, Isra'el was a laughingstock for you. He didn't associate with thieves; nevertheless, whenever you spoke of him, you shook your head.

Berean Standard Bible

Was not Israel your object of ridicule? Was he ever found among thieves? For whenever you speak of him you shake your head.

American Standard Version

For was not Israel a derision unto thee? was he found among thieves? for as often as thou speakest of him, thou waggest the head.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Jeremiah 48:27 is a rhetorical indictment against Moab, a nation historically hostile to Israel, for their contemptuous and malicious joy over Israel's misfortunes. The verse highlights Moab's scornful attitude, likening Israel to a derided outcast or even a common thief, and condemns their gleeful reaction whenever Israel's struggles were mentioned. This pronouncement underscores God's awareness and judgment of Moab's unrighteous *schadenfreude* and serves as a prelude to the severe divine retribution awaiting them.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Jeremiah 48 is entirely dedicated to a detailed prophetic oracle against Moab, one of several such pronouncements against foreign nations found in chapters 46-51 of Jeremiah. This specific chapter paints a vivid picture of Moab's impending destruction, lamenting its cities, people, and national pride. Verse 27 is strategically placed within this lament, not only describing Moab's downfall but also revealing *why* such a severe judgment is warranted. It serves as a sharp rhetorical question, exposing Moab's long-standing animosity and contempt towards Israel, thereby justifying the divine retribution that is about to befall them. The preceding verses detail the utter devastation, while this verse reveals the moral offense that contributed to their fate. The chapter concludes with a promise of Moab's restoration in the latter days, offering a glimmer of hope amidst the judgment, similar to other prophecies of national judgment and restoration found in the book, such as the judgment against [Egypt](/jeremiah/46 "Jeremiah 46 - Prophecy Against Egypt") or [Babylon](/jeremiah/50 "Jeremiah 50 - Prophecy Against Babylon").
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** Moab was a Transjordanian kingdom, east of the Dead Sea, descended from Lot (Genesis 19:37). Historically, they were often antagonists of Israel, from their opposition during the Exodus (Numbers 22-25) to various conflicts during the period of the Judges and Kings (e.g., [Judges 3](/judges/3 "Judges 3 - Ehud and Eglon of Moab"), [2 Kings 3](/2_kings/3 "2 Kings 3 - Jehoram's War with Moab")). Moab was known for its pride, wealth, and idolatry, particularly the worship of Chemosh (1 Kings 11:7). In the ancient Near East, it was common for nations to mock and deride their enemies, especially those who had fallen from power or suffered defeat. Moab's "skipping for joy" at Israel's distress reflects this cultural practice, but in God's eyes, it was a profound moral failing, demonstrating a lack of compassion and an arrogant spirit that rejoiced in the suffering of God's chosen people, even when Israel was undergoing divine discipline.
* **Key Themes:** This verse powerfully contributes to several overarching themes within Jeremiah and the broader biblical narrative. Firstly, it highlights **Divine Justice and Retribution**, demonstrating that God holds nations accountable not only for their actions but also for their attitudes and intentions, especially concerning His covenant people. Moab's malicious joy and contempt for Israel were grievous sins that merited judgment, underscoring the principle that God will not tolerate those who gloat over the misfortunes of others, particularly His own. Secondly, the theme of **Malicious Contempt and *Schadenfreude*** is central. Moab's treatment of Israel as "a derision" and their comparison to "thieves" reveals a deep-seated scorn and dehumanization. The act of "skipping for joy" when speaking of Israel's plight is a vivid portrayal of *schadenfreude*, taking pleasure in another's pain or downfall, which the Bible consistently condemns (e.g., [Proverbs 24:17-18](/proverbs/24-17 "Proverbs 24:17-18 - Do Not Rejoice Over an Enemy's Fall")). Finally, the verse implicitly touches upon the theme of **God's Sovereignty over Nations**, asserting that even when Israel faced divine discipline, their suffering was not an invitation for other nations to mock or exploit, but was ultimately under God's control, and those who scorned His people would face their own reckoning.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **derision (Hebrew, _sᵉchôwq'_):** From the root meaning "to laugh," this word signifies laughter, but specifically in the sense of scorn, mockery, or ridicule. In this context, it emphasizes the contemptuous and demeaning nature of Moab's attitude towards Israel. It's not innocent amusement but a malicious, defiant, and scornful laughter directed at Israel's perceived weakness or downfall.
* **thieves (Hebrew, _gannâb'_):** This word directly translates to "stealer" or "thief." By asking "was he found among thieves?", the rhetorical question implies that Moab viewed Israel as a nation of outcasts, disreputable individuals, or those who had fallen to the lowest social standing, perhaps even suggesting they were worthy of plunder or had brought their misfortune upon themselves through illicit means. It's a deeply insulting comparison, designed to degrade Israel's status.
* **skippedst for joy (Hebrew, _nûwd'_):** While the primary meaning of this root is "to nod" or "to waver," it can also figuratively mean to wander, flee, or, as in this context, to toss the head in scorn or taunt. The KJV's "skippedst for joy" captures the sense of an outward, physical expression of malicious glee or triumphant derision. It's an active, visible manifestation of Moab's contempt and pleasure in Israel's misfortune, perhaps a jeering or scornful gesture.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"For was not Israel a derision unto thee?"**: This is a powerful rhetorical question, implying an emphatic "Yes!" Moab had indeed treated Israel with utter contempt and mockery. The question highlights Moab's long-standing attitude of scorn, viewing Israel not as a fellow nation, but as an object of ridicule, perhaps because of their perceived weakness, their reliance on an unseen God, or their periods of national distress. This derision was not a momentary lapse but a consistent posture.
* **"was he found among thieves?"**: Another rhetorical question, this clause intensifies the accusation. It suggests that Moab not only mocked Israel but also regarded them as outcasts or criminals. This comparison is deeply insulting, implying that Israel was disreputable, untrustworthy, or had fallen to such a low state that they were indistinguishable from common brigands. It also might subtly accuse Moab of treating Israel as if they were fair game for plunder, like a thief's victim.
* **"for since thou spakest of him, thou skippedst for joy."**: This final clause reveals the active and consistent nature of Moab's malicious glee. Whenever Moab discussed or even thought about Israel, their reaction was one of open, scornful rejoicing. The phrase "skippedst for joy" (or "tossed your head in scorn") vividly portrays their active *schadenfreude*—a visible, audible expression of pleasure at Israel's suffering. This was not merely a private thought but an overt display of contempt, confirming the depth of their animosity and their sinful delight in another's pain.

#### Literary Devices
Jeremiah 48:27 employs several potent literary devices to convey its message. The most prominent are **Rhetorical Questions**, which are used twice at the beginning of the verse ("For was not Israel a derision unto thee? was he found among thieves?"). These questions are not posed to elicit information but to make an emphatic assertion, implying an undeniable "Yes." They serve to highlight Moab's undeniable guilt and to underscore the depth of their contempt for Israel. The verse also utilizes **Hyperbole** and **Degradation** by likening Israel to someone "found among thieves." This exaggerated comparison is designed to underscore the extreme level of scorn and disrespect Moab harbored, suggesting Israel was viewed as utterly disreputable and deserving of their plight. Finally, the phrase "thou skippedst for joy" serves as vivid **Imagery** and **Personification**, depicting Moab's malicious glee as an active, almost physical manifestation of their scorn. This imagery paints a clear picture of their unrighteous rejoicing, making their sin palpable and emphasizing the active nature of their contempt.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Jeremiah 48:27 profoundly illustrates God's unwavering commitment to His people, even when they are undergoing discipline, and His intolerance for those who gloat over their suffering. It reveals that God observes not only actions but also the attitudes of the heart, particularly the sin of *schadenfreude*—taking pleasure in another's misfortune. This malicious joy, rooted in pride and contempt, is a direct affront to God's compassionate nature and His protective care for His covenant people. Moab's condemnation serves as a timeless warning against the spiritual arrogance that leads one to mock or despise those whom God loves, reminding us that God is the ultimate judge of all nations and their treatment of His chosen ones.

* [Proverbs 24:17-18](/proverbs/24-17 "Proverbs 24:17-18 - Do Not Rejoice When Your Enemy Falls")
* [Obadiah 1:12](/obadiah/1-12 "Obadiah 1:12 - Do Not Gloat Over Your Brother's Day of Disaster")
* [Psalm 35:15-16](/psalm/35-15 "Psalm 35:15-16 - Enemies Mocking David")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Jeremiah 48:27 offers a sobering mirror for self-examination, calling us to scrutinize our own hearts and attitudes towards others, especially those we might perceive as adversaries or those who are struggling. The sin of *schadenfreude*, or malicious joy, is insidious because it often masquerades as righteous indignation or justified satisfaction. However, God's Word consistently calls us to compassion, humility, and love, even towards our enemies. This verse reminds us that God sees and judges not only our overt actions but also the hidden inclinations of our hearts—the thoughts we entertain, the whispers of satisfaction we might feel when someone else falters. Our response to others' difficulties should always be rooted in empathy and a desire for their well-being, reflecting the heart of God who grieves over sin and suffering. We are called to resist the temptation to mock, scorn, or derive pleasure from the downfall of others, understanding that such attitudes are an abomination in God's sight and ultimately lead to our own spiritual impoverishment. Instead, we are to pray for those who persecute us, bless those who curse us, and rejoice with those who rejoice, and weep with those who weep, cultivating a spirit of genuine love and humility.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what ways might I, subtly or overtly, take pleasure in the struggles or failures of others, even those I disagree with?**
* **How does the warning against *schadenfreude* in this verse challenge my natural human tendency towards pride or self-righteousness?**
* **What practical steps can I take to cultivate a heart of compassion and empathy, even towards those I find difficult or antagonistic?**

### FAQ
**Why was Moab's attitude towards Israel so offensive to God?**

Answer: Moab's attitude was offensive to God because it demonstrated deep-seated contempt, pride, and malicious joy (*schadenfreude*) towards Israel, God's chosen people. Even though Israel often faced divine discipline for their sins, they remained God's covenant nation. Moab's mockery and gloating were not merely political rivalry but an affront to God's own character and His relationship with Israel. God views the treatment of His people as if it were treatment of Himself, as seen in passages like [Zechariah 2:8](/zechariah/2-8 "Zechariah 2:8 - He Who Touches You Touches the Apple of His Eye"). Moab's "skipping for joy" at Israel's distress revealed a lack of compassion and a sinful arrogance that rejoiced in the pain of others, a behavior consistently condemned in Scripture (e.g., [Proverbs 17:5](/proverbs/17-5 "Proverbs 17:5 - He Who Mocks the Poor Insults His Maker")).

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Jeremiah 48:27, with its depiction of Israel as "a derision" and an object of scorn for Moab, finds its ultimate fulfillment and reversal in the person and work of Jesus Christ. Just as Israel was mocked in its suffering, so too was Jesus, the true Israel, the perfect Son, subjected to unparalleled derision and contempt. He was "despised and rejected by mankind, a man of suffering, and familiar with pain" ([Isaiah 53:3](/isaiah/53-3 "Isaiah 53:3 - The Suffering Servant")). He was mocked by soldiers ([Matthew 27:27-31](/matthew/27-27 "Matthew 27:27-31 - Soldiers Mock Jesus")), scorned by religious leaders ([Mark 15:29-32](/mark/15-29 "Mark 15:29-32 - Jesus Mocked on the Cross")), and even likened to a criminal, being "counted among the transgressors" ([Luke 22:37](/luk/22-37 "Luke 22:37 - Jesus Among Transgressors")). Yet, unlike Moab's sinful joy, the world's derision of Christ was part of God's redemptive plan. Through His suffering and death, Jesus bore the scorn and sin of humanity, becoming the ultimate sacrifice for our redemption. His apparent weakness and derision on the cross ultimately led to His triumph over sin and death, demonstrating that God's ways are not the world's ways. The "skipped for joy" of His enemies ultimately turned into their judgment, while those who once mocked will one day bow the knee, for "God exalted him to the highest place and gave him the name that is above every name, that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow" ([Philippians 2:9-10](/philippians/2-9 "Philippians 2:9-10 - Jesus Exalted")). Thus, the scorn endured by Israel, and supremely by Christ, is transformed into the foundation of God's eternal victory and the ultimate vindication of His people.

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 2:26

As the thief is ashamed when he is found, so is the house of Israel ashamed; they, their kings, their princes, and their priests, and their prophets,

Micah 7:8

Rejoice not against me, O mine enemy: when I fall, I shall arise; when I sit in darkness, the LORD [shall be] a light unto me.

Micah 7:10

Then [she that is] mine enemy shall see [it], and shame shall cover her which said unto me, Where is the LORD thy God? mine eyes shall behold her: now shall she be trodden down as the mire of the streets.

Lamentations 2:15

All that pass by clap [their] hands at thee; they hiss and wag their head at the daughter of Jerusalem, [saying, Is] this the city that [men] call The perfection of beauty, The joy of the whole earth?

Lamentations 2:17

The LORD hath done [that] which he had devised; he hath fulfilled his word that he had commanded in the days of old: he hath thrown down, and hath not pitied: and he hath caused [thine] enemy to rejoice over thee, he hath set up the horn of thine adversaries.

Ezekiel 25:8

¶ Thus saith the Lord GOD; Because that Moab and Seir do say, Behold, the house of Judah [is] like unto all the heathen;

Zephaniah 2:8

¶ I have heard the reproach of Moab, and the revilings of the children of Ammon, whereby they have reproached my people, and magnified [themselves] against their border.