Jeremiah 48:31

KJV

Therefore will I howl for Moab, and I will cry out for all Moab; [mine heart] shall mourn for the men of Kirheres.

KJV (with Strong's)

Therefore will I howl {H3213} for Moab {H4124}, and I will cry out {H2199} for all Moab {H4124}; mine heart shall mourn {H1897} for the men {H582} of Kirheres {H7025}.

Complete Jewish Bible

Therefore I wail for Mo'av; for all Mo'av I cry; for the people of Kir-Heres I lament.

Berean Standard Bible

Therefore I will wail for Moab; I will cry out for all of Moab; I will moan for the men of Kir-heres.

American Standard Version

Therefore will I wail for Moab; yea, I will cry out for all Moab: for the men of Kir-heres shall they mourn.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Jeremiah 48:31 is a poignant declaration of divine lament over the impending judgment and destruction of Moab. It reveals the Lord's profound sorrow, expressed through vivid anthropomorphic language of howling, crying out, and mourning, for a nation that had long opposed Him but was nonetheless His creation. This verse underscores that even in the execution of righteous judgment, God's heart is grieved by the suffering that sin inevitably brings, particularly as it impacts the inhabitants of a significant Moabite stronghold like Kirheres.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Jeremiah 48:31 is situated within a lengthy and detailed prophetic oracle against Moab, spanning the entirety of [Jeremiah 48](/jeremiah/48 "Jeremiah 48 - The Oracle Against Moab"). This chapter is part of a larger section in Jeremiah (chapters 46-51) containing oracles against various foreign nations, demonstrating God's sovereignty over all peoples. The verses immediately preceding Jeremiah 48:31 describe the widespread desolation and wailing across Moab, with particular emphasis on the destruction of its cities and the shame of its god, Chemosh (e.g., [Jeremiah 48:13](/jeremiah/48-13 "Jeremiah 48:13 - Moab Ashamed of Chemosh")). Verse 31 intensifies this picture by shifting the lament from human or national sorrow to a divine expression of grief, making God Himself the one who "howls" and "cries out" over Moab's fate, specifically mentioning the men of Kirheres, a key Moabite city. The subsequent verses continue the lament, detailing further aspects of Moab's fall and the reasons for God's judgment, primarily their pride and idolatry.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** Moab was an ancient kingdom located east of the Dead Sea, descended from Lot (as recounted in [Genesis 19:37](/genesis/19-37 "Genesis 19:37 - Origin of Moab")). Historically, Moab had a contentious relationship with Israel, marked by periods of conflict, oppression, and cultural influence, including the worship of the idol Chemosh ([Numbers 21:29](/numbers/21-29 "Numbers 21:29 - Woe to Moab and Chemosh")). The Moabites were known for their pride and arrogance, often boasting in their strength and wealth, which is a recurring theme in the oracle against them (e.g., [Jeremiah 48:29](/jeremiah/48-29 "Jeremiah 48:29 - Moab's Pride")). Kirheres (also known as Kir Hareseth or Kir of Moab, [Isaiah 16:7](/isaiah/16-7 "Isaiah 16:7 - Lament for Kir Hareseth")) was a major fortified city, likely the capital or a significant stronghold of Moab. Its mention here signifies the complete and utter collapse of the Moabite kingdom, as even its most secure places and their inhabitants would fall. The prophecy likely points to the Babylonian invasions of the late 7th and early 6th centuries BCE as the instrument of God's judgment, a common fate for nations in the region during that tumultuous period.
* **Key Themes:** The primary themes in [Jeremiah 48](/jeremiah/48 "Jeremiah 48 - The Oracle Against Moab") and specifically in verse 31 include **Divine Lamentation**, where God Himself expresses profound sorrow over the impending destruction of Moab. This challenges any simplistic view of a detached or indifferent deity, revealing that God takes no pleasure in the death of the wicked but rather desires their repentance ([Ezekiel 33:11](/ezekiel/33-11 "Ezekiel 33:11 - God Desires Repentance")). Another crucial theme is the **Consequences of Pride and Idolatry**, as Moab's downfall is directly linked to its arrogance and its trust in false gods and its own might, serving as a timeless warning against human self-sufficiency and spiritual rebellion ([Proverbs 16:18](/proverbs/16-18 "Proverbs 16:18 - Pride Goes Before a Fall")). Finally, the oracle powerfully asserts **God's Sovereignty Over Nations**, demonstrating His ultimate control over the rise and fall of kingdoms, executing His righteous judgment according to their deeds and holding all accountable to His divine standards.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **howl (Hebrew, _yâlal'_):** This word (H3213) is a primitive root signifying a loud, mournful cry, often associated with intense grief, wailing, or lamentation over calamity. Its onomatopoeic nature suggests a deep, guttural sound of distress. When attributed to God, it profoundly conveys the depth of His emotional pain and sorrow at the impending devastation of Moab, indicating that His judgment is not devoid of compassion but is accompanied by profound grief.
* **cry out (Hebrew, _zâʻaq'_):** The term (H2199) denotes a shriek or loud cry, typically arising from anguish, danger, or distress. While it can also mean to announce or convene publicly, in this context, it reinforces the sense of intense emotional outcry. Its pairing with "howl" emphasizes the vocal and demonstrative nature of the divine lament, highlighting that God's sorrow is not silent but is expressed with a powerful, audible groan over the fate of Moab.
* **mourn (Hebrew, _hâgâh'_):** This word (H1897) encompasses a range of meanings from murmuring and muttering to pondering, meditating, or roaring. In the context of "mine heart shall mourn," it signifies a deep, internal rumination of sorrow that finds expression in a low, continuous sound of grief. It suggests a profound and sustained internal anguish that permeates God's very being, signifying a heartfelt lament that is not superficial but deeply felt for "the men of Kirheres."

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Therefore will I howl for Moab,"**: This opening clause establishes the divine speaker ("I," referring to the Lord) and His immediate, visceral response to Moab's impending judgment. The use of "howl" (yâlal) is a powerful anthropomorphism, attributing to God a deeply human expression of grief, typically associated with intense mourning over death or disaster. It signifies God's profound sorrow and lament over the fate of Moab, despite their rebellion.
* **"and I will cry out for all Moab;"**: This phrase reiterates and intensifies the divine lament. "Cry out" (zâʻaq) reinforces the audible and public nature of God's distress. The inclusion of "all Moab" emphasizes the comprehensive nature of the impending judgment and the widespread sorrow it will cause, affecting the entire nation, not just specific individuals or regions. It underscores the totality of God's grief for the entire populace.
* **"mine heart shall mourn for the men of Kirheres."**: This final clause personalizes and deepens the divine lament. The reference to "mine heart" reveals the internal, emotional core of God's sorrow, indicating that His grief is not merely an external expression but originates from His very being. "Mourn" (hâgâh) here suggests a deep, contemplative, and pervasive sorrow. The specific mention of "the men of Kirheres" (a major Moabite city) highlights the particular tragedy of the human cost of judgment, focusing God's compassion on the individuals who will suffer, even within a nation under divine wrath.

#### Literary Devices
Jeremiah 48:31 employs several potent **literary devices** to convey its message. The most prominent is **Anthropomorphism**, where human characteristics and emotions are attributed to God. Phrases like "I will howl," "I will cry out," and "mine heart shall mourn" vividly portray God experiencing deep grief, making His character relatable and emphasizing His profound emotional investment in creation, even when exercising judgment. This is further amplified by **Personification**, as God is depicted actively lamenting, much like a human mourner. **Parallelism** is evident in the repetition of similar expressions of sorrow ("howl," "cry out," "mourn"), which serves to intensify the emotional impact and underscore the depth and sincerity of the divine lament. The phrase "all Moab" followed by "the men of Kirheres" also demonstrates **Synecdoche**, where a part (Kirheres) represents the whole (Moab), or vice-versa, emphasizing that the judgment is both comprehensive and acutely personal. Finally, the use of strong, evocative verbs like "howl" and "cry out" creates a powerful **Imagery** of profound distress, drawing the reader into the scene of lamentation and highlighting the severity of the coming devastation.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Jeremiah 48:31 offers a profound glimpse into the complex character of God, revealing that divine justice is not devoid of compassion. Even as God executes judgment against Moab for its pride, idolatry, and consistent opposition to His people, His heart is moved to lament. This verse challenges any perception of a cold, indifferent, or vengeful deity, instead portraying a God who grieves over the consequences of sin and the suffering it brings, even to those who defy Him. It underscores the biblical truth that God takes no pleasure in the destruction of the wicked, but rather desires their repentance and life. This divine sorrow serves as a powerful reminder of the gravity of sin and the immense cost of rebellion, not only for humanity but also for the heart of God.

* [Ezekiel 33:11](/ezekiel/33-11 "Ezekiel 33:11 - God's Desire for Repentance")
* [Isaiah 15:5](/isaiah/15-5 "Isaiah 15:5 - Prophecy Against Moab")
* [Lamentations 1:12](/lamentations/1-12 "Lamentations 1:12 - Jerusalem's Lament")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Jeremiah 48:31 invites us to deeply consider the character of God, moving beyond simplistic notions of a purely wrathful or punitive deity. It reveals a God whose justice is intertwined with profound compassion, a God who grieves over the brokenness and suffering caused by sin, even when He is the one bringing judgment. This should inspire in us a greater reverence for His holiness and a deeper understanding of the gravity of our own choices. If God Himself laments over the fate of those who defy Him, how much more should we cultivate empathy and sorrow for the lost, the suffering, and those caught in the destructive grip of sin? This verse calls us to introspection, prompting us to examine areas in our lives where pride, self-reliance, or idolatry might be subtly replacing our complete trust in God. It also encourages us to participate in God's heart for the world, fostering a spirit of intercession and compassion for those who are alienated from Him, recognizing that even in judgment, there is a divine longing for reconciliation and restoration.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does the divine lament in Jeremiah 48:31 challenge or confirm your understanding of God's character?**
* **In what ways might we, as followers of Christ, be called to lament over the brokenness and sin in our world, reflecting God's heart?**
* **What specific areas in your own life might be marked by pride or self-reliance, and how does God's judgment on Moab serve as a warning for personal humility?**

### FAQ
**Why would God "howl" or "mourn" for a nation He is judging?**

Answer: This verse reveals a profound aspect of God's character: His justice is not devoid of compassion. While Moab was a rebellious nation deserving of judgment due to its pride, idolatry, and opposition to Israel, God still created them. The anthropomorphic language of "howling," "crying out," and "mourning" signifies God's deep sorrow and grief over the destruction and suffering that sin inevitably brings. It underscores that God takes no pleasure in the death of the wicked, but rather desires their repentance and life ([Ezekiel 33:11](/ezekiel/33-11 "Ezekiel 33:11 - God Desires Repentance")). His lament demonstrates that even when His holiness demands judgment, His heart is pained by the consequences for His creation.

**Who were the "men of Kirheres" and why are they specifically mentioned?**

Answer: Kirheres (also known as Kir Hareseth or Kir of Moab) was a significant fortified city in Moab, likely its capital or a major stronghold. Its specific mention in Jeremiah 48:31, alongside "all Moab," highlights the particular devastation that would befall this key strategic and populated center. By focusing on "the men of Kirheres," the prophecy personalizes the judgment, emphasizing the human cost of the national destruction. It draws attention to the individuals who would suffer, making the divine lament more poignant and specific, underscoring that the judgment was not abstract but would profoundly impact real people in a real place. This city's fall would symbolize the complete collapse of Moabite power and security, as also alluded to in [Isaiah 16:7](/isaiah/16-7 "Isaiah 16:7 - Lament for Kir Hareseth").

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
The divine lament over Moab in Jeremiah 48:31, where God's heart mourns even for those under His judgment, finds its ultimate and most profound fulfillment in the person and work of Jesus Christ. While God grieved over the destruction of a rebellious nation, Jesus, the very embodiment of God, wept over Jerusalem, a city that rejected Him and would face desolation ([Luke 19:41-44](/luke/19-41 "Luke 19:41-44 - Jesus Weeps Over Jerusalem")). This foreshadows Christ's identification with human suffering, not just as an observer, but as one who would personally bear the weight of sin and its consequences. The "howling" and "crying out" of God for Moab prefigure the ultimate lament and agony of Christ in Gethsemane ([Matthew 26:36-46](/matthew/26-36 "Matthew 26:36-46 - Jesus in Gethsemane")), where He wrestled with the cup of divine wrath, and His cry of dereliction on the cross ([Matthew 27:46](/matthew/27-46 "Matthew 27:46 - Jesus' Cry on the Cross")). Unlike Moab, whose judgment was for their sin, Christ's suffering was for the sin of humanity, taking upon Himself the very wrath that we deserved. Through His willing sacrifice, He absorbed the divine lament and the judgment, offering a path to reconciliation and life for all who believe, demonstrating that God's heart, though grieved by sin, is ultimately bent towards redemption and restoration, culminating in the [Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world](/john/1-29 "John 1:29 - Jesus, the Lamb of God").

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 15:5

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.

2 Kings 3:25

And they beat down the cities, and on every good piece of land cast every man his stone, and filled it; and they stopped all the wells of water, and felled all the good trees: only in Kirharaseth left they the stones thereof; howbeit the slingers went about [it], and smote it.

Jeremiah 48:36

Therefore mine heart shall sound for Moab like pipes, and mine heart shall sound like pipes for the men of Kirheres: because the riches [that] he hath gotten are perished.

Isaiah 16:7

Therefore shall Moab howl for Moab, every one shall howl: for the foundations of Kirhareseth shall ye mourn; surely [they are] stricken.

Isaiah 16:11

Wherefore my bowels shall sound like an harp for Moab, and mine inward parts for Kirharesh.