49:14 49:14

Jeremiah 49:15

49:16 49:16

Bible Versions

For, lo, I will make thee small among the heathen, [and] despised among men.
For, lo, I will make {H5414} thee small {H6996} among the heathen {H1471}, and despised {H959} among men {H120}.
Here! I will make you least among nations, the most despised of people.
“For behold, I will make you small among nations, despised among men.
For, behold, I have made thee small among the nations, and despised among men.

Commentary on Jeremiah 49:15 (KJV)

Jeremiah 49:15 is a potent declaration of divine judgment against the nation of Edom. This verse is part of a larger section in the book of Jeremiah (chapters 46-51) where the prophet pronounces God's judgment against various foreign nations, demonstrating God's sovereignty over all peoples, not just Israel.

Context

This verse specifically addresses Edom, a neighboring nation located south of Judah, descended from Esau, Jacob's brother (Genesis 25:30). Edom was known for its proud and secure dwelling places in the rocky strongholds of Seir, believing itself impregnable (as seen in Jeremiah 49:16). Historically, Edom often showed hostility towards Israel, particularly during times of Judah's distress, such as the Babylonian invasion (see Obadiah 1:11-14). This prophecy serves as a direct counter to their self-assured pride.

Key Themes

  • Divine Judgment and Sovereignty: The verse powerfully illustrates God's absolute authority and power to bring low even the most formidable and arrogant nations. No nation or people group is beyond His ultimate judgment.
  • Humiliation of the Proud: Edom's pride and self-exaltation are met with a promise of abasement. God declares He will make them "small" and "despised," a complete reversal of their perceived status and security. This theme resonates with the biblical principle that pride goes before destruction.
  • Justice for Hostility: While not explicitly stated in this verse, the broader context of Edom's history with Israel suggests that this judgment is also a form of divine justice for their consistent animosity and opposition towards God's chosen people.

Linguistic Insights

The KJV uses strong terms to convey Edom's coming downfall:

  • "small" (Hebrew: tsa'ir) implies being diminished, insignificant, or weak. It directly contrasts with Edom's self-perception of strength and grandeur.
  • "despised" (Hebrew: bazah) means to be scorned, held in contempt, or looked down upon. This indicates a loss of respect and standing among other nations, a deep humiliation.

Practical Application

Jeremiah 49:15 carries timeless lessons for believers today:

  • God's Impartial Justice: This prophecy reminds us that God's justice is not limited to His covenant people but extends to all nations and individuals. Every act of pride, oppression, or defiance against Him will ultimately be addressed.
  • The Danger of Pride: Edom's fate serves as a stark warning against arrogance and self-sufficiency. Whether in nations or individuals, pride often precedes a fall. True security and honor come from humility before God.
  • Trust in God's Control: For those who trust in the Lord, this verse offers reassurance that God remains in control of world affairs. He orchestrates history and will bring about justice, even when it seems the powerful are unchecked. It encourages us to put our faith in His sovereign plan, knowing that He will ultimately set all things right (see Romans 12:19).
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.

  • Obadiah 1:2

    Behold, I have made thee small among the heathen: thou art greatly despised.

  • Luke 1:51

    He hath shewed strength with his arm; he hath scattered the proud in the imagination of their hearts.

  • 1 Samuel 2:7

    The LORD maketh poor, and maketh rich: he bringeth low, and lifteth up.

  • 1 Samuel 2:8

    He raiseth up the poor out of the dust, [and] lifteth up the beggar from the dunghill, to set [them] among princes, and to make them inherit the throne of glory: for the pillars of the earth [are] the LORD'S, and he hath set the world upon them.

  • 1 Samuel 2:30

    Wherefore the LORD God of Israel saith, I said indeed [that] thy house, and the house of thy father, should walk before me for ever: but now the LORD saith, Be it far from me; for them that honour me I will honour, and they that despise me shall be lightly esteemed.

  • 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.

  • Psalms 53:5

    There were they in great fear, [where] no fear was: for God hath scattered the bones of him that encampeth [against] thee: thou hast put [them] to shame, because God hath despised them.
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