Jeremiah 48:34

Commentary on Jeremiah 48:34 (KJV)

Jeremiah 48:34 is part of a lengthy prophecy concerning the judgment of Moab, a nation historically located east of the Dead Sea, often in conflict with Israel. This specific verse vividly describes the widespread lamentation and desolation that will befall Moab, emphasizing the totality of their impending ruin.

Context

The entire chapter of Jeremiah 48 is dedicated to God's pronouncement of judgment against Moab. This judgment was a consequence of Moab's persistent pride, idolatry, and their contempt for the Lord and His people (as seen in Jeremiah 48:7 and Jeremiah 48:29). The prophecy details the destruction of their cities, the capture of their people, and the shattering of their false gods. Verse 34 focuses on the audible sorrow and the ruin of their land, painting a picture of utter devastation that sweeps across their territory.

Key Themes

• Widespread Lamentation and Desolation: The verse lists numerous Moabite cities—Heshbon, Elealeh, Jahaz, Zoar, Horonaim, and the waters of Nimrim—to illustrate that no part of Moab will escape the sorrow. The "cry" will be heard from one end of the land to the other, signifying a universal grief. This echoes similar prophecies of widespread distress, such as the lamentation described in Isaiah 15:5.
• Moab's Humiliation: The once proud and prosperous nation is brought to its knees. The imagery of a "heifer of three years old" (explained below) powerfully conveys this transition from strength to brokenness.
• Divine Judgment and Sovereignty: Ultimately, this passage underscores God's sovereign control over nations and His justice in bringing consequences for sin and rebellion against Him.

Linguistic Insights and Imagery

The verse uses powerful imagery to convey the depth of Moab's sorrow:

• "From the cry of Heshbon [even] unto Elealeh, [and even] unto Jahaz, have they uttered their voice, from Zoar [even] unto Horonaim": These are specific cities and regions within Moab. Heshbon, Elealeh, and Jahaz were in the northern part, while Zoar and Horonaim were further south. This geographical sweep emphasizes that the wailing of the people will encompass the entire land, leaving no corner untouched by the disaster.
• "[as] an heifer of three years old": This striking simile refers to a strong, well-fed, and productive young cow. A heifer of this age would be in its prime, robust and full of vitality. The comparison suggests that Moab, once powerful and flourishing, will be utterly broken and brought low, bellowing in anguish like such a strong animal that has been grievously wounded or slaughtered. Its former strength makes its present distress all the more poignant.
• "for the waters also of Nimrim shall be desolate": The "waters of Nimrim" likely refers to a lush, fertile area known for its water sources. Its desolation indicates not just a loss of life, but also an economic and agricultural ruin, signifying the complete collapse of Moab's sustenance and prosperity. This aspect of the judgment highlights the thoroughness of the destruction.

Practical Application

While a specific prophecy against an ancient nation, Jeremiah 48:34 holds timeless lessons:

1. Consequences of Pride and Rebellion: Moab's downfall was largely attributed to its pride and defiance of God. This serves as a potent reminder that pride precedes destruction, as noted in Proverbs 16:18. Nations and individuals alike are called to humility before God.
2. God's Justice and Sovereignty: The passage reaffirms that God is sovereign over all nations and holds them accountable for their actions. His justice is not confined to one people but extends to all the earth.
3. The Reality of Lament: The vivid description of widespread crying acknowledges the reality of suffering and lament when judgment falls. While the judgment is divine, the human experience of loss is profound.
4. Warning Against Idolatry: Moab's trust in its idol, Chemosh, ultimately failed them. The verse implicitly warns against placing trust in anything other than the one true God, as all false gods and human constructs will eventually prove futile.