Jeremiah 49:14

KJV

I have heard a rumour from the LORD, and an ambassador is sent unto the heathen, [saying], Gather ye together, and come against her, and rise up to the battle.

KJV (with Strong's)

I have heard {H8085} a rumour {H8052} from the LORD {H3068}, and an ambassador {H6735} is sent {H7971} unto the heathen {H1471}, saying, Gather ye together {H6908}, and come {H935} against her, and rise up {H6965} to the battle {H4421}.

Complete Jewish Bible

I have heard a message from ADONAI: "A messenger is sent among the nations, saying: 'Gather together, and march against her! Prepare for battle!'

Berean Standard Bible

I have heard a message from the LORD; an envoy has been sent to the nations: “Assemble yourselves to march against her! Rise up for battle!”

American Standard Version

I have heard tidings from Jehovah, and an ambassador is sent among the nations, saying, Gather yourselves together, and come against her, and rise up to the battle.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Jeremiah 49:14 delivers a powerful prophetic declaration concerning the impending judgment upon Edom, a nation characterized by its pride and hostility toward Israel. The verse reveals that the Lord Himself has issued a definitive decree, a "rumour" or divine message, and has dispatched an "ambassador" to rally the "heathen" nations. This divine emissary is tasked with inciting these nations to assemble and launch a decisive military campaign against Edom, signaling a divinely orchestrated and inescapable downfall.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Jeremiah 49:14 is situated within a significant prophetic block in the book of Jeremiah (chapters 46-51), which contains oracles against various foreign nations. Specifically, this verse falls within the detailed prophecy against Edom (Jeremiah 49:7-22). The preceding verses in this section describe Edom's profound wisdom being brought to nothing, its strongholds being plundered, and its inhabitants fleeing into hiding, setting the stage for the dramatic call to arms in verse 14. This oracle against Edom is part of a broader pattern in prophetic literature where God's sovereignty is demonstrated not only over His covenant people but also over all nations, holding them accountable for their actions and pride. The judgment on Edom serves as a stark example of God's universal justice.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** Edom, located southeast of Judah, was a mountainous kingdom descended from Esau, Jacob's brother, making them distant relatives of Israel. Despite this kinship, their relationship was often marked by animosity, particularly their refusal to allow Israel passage during the Exodus and their later participation in the plundering of Jerusalem (as detailed in [Obadiah's prophecy](/obadiah/1 "Obadiah - Prophecy Against Edom")). Edom's capital, Petra, was renowned for its seemingly impregnable rock-hewn fortresses, leading to a deep-seated national pride and a sense of invulnerability, as highlighted in [Obadiah 1:3](/obadiah/1-3 "Obadiah 1:3 - Edom's Presumptuous Pride"). The "heathen" or "nations" mentioned in the verse would likely refer to Babylon or other regional powers that God would providentially use as instruments of His judgment against Edom, reflecting the common ancient Near Eastern practice of empires conquering and subjugating neighboring kingdoms.

* **Key Themes:** This verse powerfully underscores several foundational theological themes. Firstly, it highlights **Divine Sovereignty**, emphasizing that the "rumour" originates from the LORD, signifying that this is not a human conspiracy but a direct decree from God, who orchestrates world events and uses nations as instruments of His will, as seen in [Isaiah 10:5](/isaiah/10-5 "Isaiah 10:5 - Assyria as God's Rod"). Secondly, it speaks to **Prophetic Certainty**, as the "rumour" or "report" is a divinely revealed and certain plan, not mere speculation, ensuring that what God declares will undoubtedly come to pass. Thirdly, the broader context of prophecies against Edom, including [Obadiah's entire book](/obadiah/1 "Obadiah - The Burden Against Edom"), consistently points to **Judgment on Pride** as a primary catalyst for Edom's downfall. God actively opposes the arrogant and self-sufficient. Finally, the sending of an "ambassador" to the "heathen" to rally them against Edom vividly illustrates **God's Active Role in History**, demonstrating His direct intervention to execute His purposes and justice among the nations.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **rumour (Hebrew, _shᵉmûwʻâh'_):** From H8052, this term signifies "something heard," an "announcement," "news," or "report." In this prophetic context, it does not imply uncertainty or speculation, but rather a definitive, divinely revealed message or decree that has been heard directly from the LORD. It carries the weight of a certain and authoritative pronouncement from God Himself.
* **ambassador (Hebrew, _tsîyr'_):** From H6735, this word denotes a "hinge," a "throe," or a "herald/erranddoer." Here, it specifically refers to an emissary or messenger. In the context of Jeremiah 49:14, this "ambassador" is not an envoy from Edom, but rather a divinely appointed or providentially moved agent—perhaps a human messenger, a prophetic vision, or even an abstract force—sent by God to stir up other nations. This highlights God's active role in orchestrating the events leading to Edom's judgment.
* **heathen (Hebrew, _gôwy'_):** From H1471, this term refers to a "foreign nation," hence a "Gentile." It can also figuratively denote a "troop of animals" or a "flight of locusts," emphasizing a mass or multitude. In this verse, it specifically refers to the non-Israelite nations, indicating that God will use external, non-covenant peoples as instruments to execute His judgment against Edom.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"I have heard a rumour from the LORD":** This opening clause establishes the divine origin and certainty of the ensuing prophecy. The prophet Jeremiah (or the prophetic voice) is receiving a direct, authoritative message from YHWH, the sovereign God of Israel. The "rumour" is not idle gossip but a firm, revealed decree, indicating that God's plan is fixed and will be executed.
* **"and an ambassador is sent unto the heathen, [saying]":** This clause reveals the mechanism of divine execution. God is actively dispatching a messenger or agent (the "ambassador") to the "heathen" nations. This "ambassador" serves as God's instrument to communicate His will and stir up these nations. The phrase "saying" introduces the direct command given to this ambassador and, through him, to the nations.
* **"Gather ye together, and come against her, and rise up to the battle":** This is the explicit divine command delivered through the ambassador. The "her" refers to Edom. The command is a threefold imperative for military action: "Gather ye together" (mobilize), "come against her" (advance and attack), and "rise up to the battle" (engage in full-scale warfare). This demonstrates God's direct orchestration of a military campaign against Edom, ensuring its inevitable downfall.

#### Literary Devices
Jeremiah 49:14 employs several potent literary devices to convey its message of divine judgment. The most prominent is **Personification**, where the abstract concept of a "rumour" is given agency, as if it can be "heard" directly from the LORD, emphasizing its concrete reality and divine origin. The "ambassador" functions as a **Divine Emissary**, a specific form of personification or a **Metaphor** for God's active will and providential working in history. This ambassador is not a human envoy but a manifestation of God's decree, sent to stir up nations. The entire verse functions as a **Prophetic Vision** or **Divine Fiat**, a declaration of God's absolute will that is presented as already set in motion, underscoring the **Certainty** of the prophecy. The direct commands ("Gather ye together, and come against her, and rise up to the battle") are examples of **Imperative Language**, which conveys the urgency and non-negotiable nature of God's decree.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Jeremiah 49:14 profoundly illustrates God's absolute sovereignty over all nations and His unwavering commitment to justice. It teaches that no nation, however proud or seemingly secure in its natural defenses, is beyond the reach of divine accountability. God's word, once declared, is certain to be fulfilled, and He is fully capable of raising up and directing even "heathen" nations to accomplish His purposes, whether for judgment or for the protection of His people. This verse serves as a powerful reminder that history is not a chaotic series of random events, but rather a stage upon which the Lord actively works out His eternal plans, often using unexpected instruments to humble the proud and execute righteous judgment. It underscores the biblical principle that pride precedes destruction, and that true security lies only in humility and reliance upon the Almighty God.

* [Isaiah 10:5](/isaiah/10-5 "Isaiah 10:5 - Assyria as God's Rod of Anger")
* [Proverbs 16:18](/proverbs/16-18 "Proverbs 16:18 - Pride Goes Before Destruction")
* [Psalm 33:10-11](/psalms/33-10 "Psalm 33:10-11 - The LORD Frustrates the Plans of the Nations")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Jeremiah 49:14, though an ancient prophecy against a specific nation, offers timeless truths for contemporary believers. It calls us to recognize and trust in God's ultimate sovereignty over all global affairs. In a world often characterized by political instability, international conflicts, and the rise and fall of nations, this verse assures us that God is not a passive observer but an active orchestrator, working out His purposes even through the actions of seemingly autonomous powers. It challenges us to examine our own hearts and the collective posture of our communities and nations, warning against the insidious nature of pride and self-sufficiency, which often lead to spiritual and societal downfall. We are reminded that humility before God is paramount, as He resists the proud but gives grace to the humble. Furthermore, it encourages us to pray for our leaders and nations, recognizing that God can turn the hearts of kings and use them for His sovereign will, whether for judgment or for blessing.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does the concept of God sending an "ambassador" to stir up nations challenge or affirm your understanding of divine providence in today's world?**
* **In what ways might pride manifest in our personal lives or in the collective identity of our communities, and how can we cultivate humility in response to God's sovereignty?**
* **What comfort or conviction do you draw from knowing that God's "rumour" or decree is certain to be fulfilled, even concerning difficult judgments?**

### FAQ
**Why is Edom singled out for such harsh judgment in Jeremiah and other prophetic books?**

Answer: Edom, descended from Esau, was a neighboring nation to Israel, but their relationship was consistently marked by hostility and treachery. Edom's primary sin, as highlighted in various prophecies (especially [Obadiah](/obadiah/1 "Obadiah - Prophecy Against Edom")), was its profound pride, its reliance on its impregnable mountain strongholds, and its gleeful participation in the downfall of Judah. When Jerusalem fell to Babylon, Edomites reportedly cheered and even helped plunder the city, demonstrating a severe lack of brotherly compassion (see [Psalm 137:7](/psalms/137-7 "Psalm 137:7 - Remember Edom's Role in Jerusalem's Fall") and [Obadiah 1:10-14](/obadiah/1-10 "Obadiah 1:10-14 - Edom's Violence Against Jacob")). God's judgment on Edom, therefore, was a righteous response to their persistent animosity, their pride, and their active opposition to His covenant people.

**Does God still use nations to execute His judgment today, as implied in this verse?**

Answer: The Bible consistently presents God as sovereign over all nations and human history. While the specific historical context of ancient Near Eastern empires being used as "rods" of God's wrath (e.g., Assyria and Babylon) is unique to that era, the theological principle remains. God continues to work out His purposes in the world, and He can use various means, including the rise and fall of nations, economic shifts, and geopolitical events, to bring about His will, to humble the proud, and to call humanity to account. The ultimate judgment, however, is reserved for the end times, when Christ will return to judge the living and the dead ([2 Timothy 4:1](/2_timothy/4-1 "2 Timothy 4:1 - Christ Will Judge the Living and the Dead")). Believers are called to discern God's hand in history and to pray for justice and peace among nations.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
While Jeremiah 49:14 speaks of a specific historical judgment on Edom, its underlying themes find profound Christ-centered fulfillment. The concept of a "rumour from the LORD" and an "ambassador" being sent points to God's definitive word and His ultimate messenger. In the New Testament, Jesus Christ is revealed as the very Word of God made flesh, the ultimate and final "ambassador" sent from the Father, not merely to declare judgment but to accomplish redemption ([John 1:14](/john/1-14 "John 1:14 - The Word Became Flesh")). He is the one through whom God has spoken His final and most complete revelation ([Hebrews 1:1-2](/hebrews/1-1 "Hebrews 1:1-2 - God Has Spoken Through His Son")). The call for nations to "gather together, and come against her, and rise up to the battle" foreshadows the ultimate spiritual battle against sin, death, and the forces of evil, a battle that Christ decisively won through His crucifixion and resurrection ([Colossians 2:15](/colossians/2-15 "Colossians 2:15 - Christ's Triumph Over Powers and Authorities")). Furthermore, while Jeremiah's prophecy brought judgment upon a proud nation, Christ's first coming was not to condemn the world but to save it ([John 3:17](/john/3-17 "John 3:17 - God Sent His Son Not to Condemn")). Yet, He will return as the righteous judge, leading the armies of heaven to execute final judgment upon all who oppose God's rule, fulfilling the ultimate "battle" against the "heathen" who refuse to bow the knee to the Lamb ([Revelation 19:11-16](/revelation/19-11 "Revelation 19:11-16 - Christ as Victorious Warrior")). Thus, Jeremiah 49:14, with its emphasis on divine sovereignty, certain judgment, and God's active intervention through a sent messenger, ultimately points to the greater work of Christ, who perfectly embodies God's word, executes His judgment, and offers His salvation.

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 30:4

For his princes were at Zoan, and his ambassadors came to Hanes.

Obadiah 1:1

¶ The vision of Obadiah. Thus saith the Lord GOD concerning Edom; We have heard a rumour from the LORD, and an ambassador is sent among the heathen, Arise ye, and let us rise up against her in battle.

Obadiah 1:4

Though thou exalt [thyself] as the eagle, and though thou set thy nest among the stars, thence will I bring thee down, saith the LORD.

Jeremiah 51:27

Set ye up a standard in the land, blow the trumpet among the nations, prepare the nations against her, call together against her the kingdoms of Ararat, Minni, and Ashchenaz; appoint a captain against her; cause the horses to come up as the rough caterpillers.

Jeremiah 51:28

Prepare against her the nations with the kings of the Medes, the captains thereof, and all the rulers thereof, and all the land of his dominion.

Jeremiah 51:46

And lest your heart faint, and ye fear for the rumour that shall be heard in the land; a rumour shall both come [one] year, and after that in [another] year [shall come] a rumour, and violence in the land, ruler against ruler.

Isaiah 13:2

Lift ye up a banner upon the high mountain, exalt the voice unto them, shake the hand, that they may go into the gates of the nobles.