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Public-domain commentary
Matthew Henry
From his Commentary on the Whole Bible. Henry comments on passages, not single verses — this entry covers Jeremiah 49:7–22. His two-level outline is real structure in the source text, so it is rendered as structure.
The Edomites come next to receive their doom from God, by the mouth of Jeremiah: they also were old enemies to the Israel of God; but their day will come to be reckoned with, and it is now at hand, and is foretold, not only for warning to them, but for comfort to the Israel of God, whose afflictions were very much aggravated by their triumphs over them and joy in their calamity, Psa 137:7. Many of the expressions used in this prophecy concerning Edom are borrowed from the prophecy of Obadiah, which is concerning Edom; for, all the prophets being inspired by one and the same Spirit, there must needs be a wonderful harmony and agreement in their predictions. Now here it is foretold,
I.That the country of Edom should be all wasted and made desolate, that the calamity of Esau should be brought upon him, the calamity he has deserved, and God has long designed him, for his old sins, Jer 49:8. The time is at hand when God will visit him, and call him to an account, and then they shall flee from the sword, turn back from the battle, and dwell deep in some close caverns, where they shall hide themselves. All they have shall be carried off by the conqueror; whereas grape-gatherers will leave some gleanings, and even thieves know when they have enough and will destroy no further, those that destroy them shall never be satiated, (Jer 49:9, Jer 49:10); they shall make Esau quite bare, shall strip the Edomites of all they have, shall find out ways and means to come at their most hidden treasure, shall discover even the secret places where they thought to secure their wealth, and rifle them, so that they shall none of them save their wealth, no, nor save themselves nor their children, that might be concealed in a little room: He shall not be able to hide himself, and his seed too is spoiled. His brethren the Moabites, and his neighbours the Philistines, whom he might have expected succours from, or at least shelter with, are spoiled as well as he and disabled to do him any service. And he is not, or there is not he, there is none to him, none left him, that may say what follows (Jer 49:11), Leave thy fatherless children, I will preserve them alive. When they are flying, or dying, there shall be none left, no relation, no friend, no, not so much as any parish officers to take care of their wives and children that they leave behind. Edom is not, he is cut off and gone; nor is there any to say, Leave me thy orphans. If the master of a family be cut off, or forced away, it is some comfort if he have a friend to leave his family with, whom he can confide in; but they shall have none such, for they shall all be involved in the same calamity. The Chaldee makes these to be the words of God to his people, distinguishing them from the Edomites in this calamity; and they read it, "But you, O house of Israel! you shall not leave your orphans; I will secure them, and let your widows rest on my word. Whatever becomes of the widows and fatherless of the Edomites, I will take care of yours." Note, it is an unspeakable comfort to the people of God, when they are dying, that they may leave their surviving relations with God, may, in faith, commit them to him and encourage them to trust in him; and, though they cannot promise themselves great things in the world for them, yet they may hope that he will preserve them alive, always, provided that they trust in him. Let the Edomites, for their part, count upon no other than to be made a desolation and a reproach; for the decree has gone forth; God hath sworn it by himself (Jer 49:13), that their cities shall be wasted, nay, they shall be perpetual wastes, they shall be made mean and despicable; they had made a mighty figure, but God will make them small among the heathen; and those that despised God's people shall themselves be despised among men (Jer 49:15, Oba 1:2), nay, they shall be made monstrous, and even a prodigy (Jer 49:17): Edom shall be such a desolation that every one who goes by shall be astonished; nay, worse yet, they shall be made a terror; Edom shall be made like Sodom and Gomorrah, none shall care for coming near the ruins of it, no man shall abide there (Jer 49:18), such a frightful place shall it be made.
II.That the instruments of this destruction should be very resolute and formidable.
They have their commission from God; he summons them into this service (Jer 49:14): I have heard a rumour, or report, from the Lord, heard it by the prophecy of Obadiah, heard it by a whisper to myself, that an ambassador, or herald, or messenger, is sent to the Gentiles, who are to lay Edom waste, saying, Gather you together, muster all the forces you can, and come against her; for (Jer 49:20) this is the counsel that he hath taken against Edom. The matter is settled, the decree has gone forth, and there is no resisting it. God has determined that Edom shall be laid waste, and then he that is to be employed in wasting it shall come swiftly and strongly. Nebuchadnezzar is he or whom it is here foretold,
1.That he shall come up like a lion, with fierceness and fury, like a lion enraged by the swelling of Jordan overflowing his banks, which forces him out of his covert by the water-side into the higher grounds, Jer 49:19. He shall come roaring, come to devour all that come in his way. He shall come against the habitation of the strong, the forts and castles; and I will cause him to come suddenly into the land (so the next words might well be read), so as to find them unprovided with necessaries for a defence; for I will look out a chosen man to appoint over her, to do this execution, a man fit for the purpose, one chosen out of the people; for when God has work to do he will find out the fittest instruments to be employed in doing it: "Who is like me for choosing the instruments, and spiriting them for the work? And who will appoint me the time? Who will challenge me, and fix a time and place to meet me? Who will join issue with me in battle? And, when I send a lion into the flock, who is that shepherd that can, or dare, stand before me, or against me, to oppose that lion, and think to rescue any of the flock?" Note, When God has work to do of any kind he will soon find those that are able to engage in it, and all the world cannot find those that are able to engage against it. Nay, if God will have Edom destroyed, and their peopled dislodged, there needs not a lion, a fierce lion to do it: Even the least of the flock shall draw them out (Jer 49:20); the meanest servant in Nebuchadnezzar's retinue, the weakest of all that follow his camp, shall draw them out for the slaughter, shall force them to flee, or to surrender, and make their habitations desolate with them. God can bring to pass the greatest works by instruments least likely. When the Chaldean army comes against the Edomites all hands shall be employed and the poorest soldier in it shall have a pluck at them.
2.Nebuchadnezzar shall come, not only like a lion, the king of beasts, but like an eagle, the king of birds (Jer 49:22): He shall fly as the eagle upon his prey, so swiftly, so strongly, shall clap his wings upon Bozrah, to secure it for himself (as before, Jer 48:40), and immediately the hearts of the mighty men shall fail them, for they shall see he is an enemy that it is in vain to struggle with.
III.That the Edomites' confidences should all fail them in the day of their distress.
1.They trusted to their wisdom, but that shall stand them in no stead. This is the first thing fastened upon in this prophecy against Edom, Jer 49:7. That nation used to be famous for wisdom, and their statesmen were thought to excel in politics; and yet now they shall take such wrong measures in all their counsels, and be so baffled in all their designs, that people shall ask, with wonder, What is the matter with the Edomites? Is wisdom no more in Teman? Have the wise men of the east country (Kg1 4:30) become fools? Are those at their wits' end that were thought to have the monopoly of prudence? Has counsel perished from the understanding men? It is so, when God is designing the ruin of a people; for whom he will destroy he infatuates. See Job 12:20. Has their wisdom vanished? Is it tired? (so some); is it worn out? (so others); has it become useless? so others. Yes, it will do them no service when God comes forth to contend with them.
2.They trusted to their strength, but neither shall that avail them, Jer 49:16. They had been a terror to all their neighbours; every body feared them and truckled to them, and this made them proud and conceited of themselves and their own strength, and very secure; because no neighbouring nation durst meddle with them, they thought no nation in the world durst. Their country was much of it mountainous, having many passes which they thought themselves able to make good against any invader; but this terribleness of theirs deceived them, and so did their imaginary inaccessibleness; they did not prove so strong as they were formidable, nor so safe as they were secure. High as they are, God will bring them down; for, as there is no wisdom, so there is no might against the Lord, See these expressions, Oba 1:3, Oba 1:4, Oba 1:8.
IV.That their destruction should be inevitable and very remarkable.
1.God hath determined it (Jer 49:12); he hath said it; nay (Jer 49:13), he hath sworn it, that the Edomites shall not go unpunished, but that they shall drink the cup of trembling, which is put into the hands of all their neighbours; even those whose judgment, or doom, was not to drink of the cup, who had not so well deserved it as they had done, nations that had not been such enemies to Israel as they had been, or Israel itself, that was God's peculiar people, and among whom there were many, very many, who kept his ordinances, upon which account they might have expected an exemption; and yet they had been made to drink of the bitter cup; and shall the Edomites think to pass it? No; they shall surely drink of it. Note, When God punishes the less guilty it is folly for the more guilty to promise themselves impunity; and when judgment begins at God's house it will reach the strangers.
2.All the world shall take notice of it (Jer 49:21): The earth is moved, and all the nations are put into a concern, at the noise of their fall; the news of it shall make them tremble. The noise of the outcry is heard to the Red Sea, which flowed upon the coasts of Edom. So loud shall be the shouts of the conquerors and the shrieks of the conquered, and such a mighty noise shall the news of this destruction of Idumea make in the nations, that is shall be heard among the ships that lie in the Red Sea to take in lading (Kg1 9:26), and then they shall carry the news of it to the remotest shore. Note, The fall of those who have affected to make a noise with their pomp and power will make so much the greater noise.
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Summary
Jeremiah 49:17 pronounces a severe and irreversible judgment upon Edom, declaring that it will become a complete desolation. This prophetic word foretells a future where the once proud nation will be so utterly ruined that those who pass by will be struck with profound astonishment and express their scorn through hissing, a visceral reaction to the overwhelming "plagues" or calamities that have befallen it. It underscores God's sovereign justice in bringing retribution upon nations that oppose His will and His people.
Context
Literary Context
Jeremiah 49:17 is situated within a significant section of the Book of Jeremiah, specifically chapters 46-51, which contain a series of prophecies against various foreign nations. This broader literary unit serves to demonstrate Yahweh's universal sovereignty, asserting His authority not only over Judah but over all peoples and kingdoms. Chapter 49 itself focuses on judgments against Ammon, Edom, Damascus, Kedar, Hazor, and Elam. The prophecy against Edom (Jeremiah 49:7-22) is particularly detailed, emphasizing the complete downfall of a nation characterized by pride and hostility. Verse 17 acts as a powerful summary statement of this impending ruin, reinforcing the earlier declarations of their wisdom failing and their strongholds being overthrown.
Historical & Cultural Context
Edom, located southeast of the Dead Sea, was the land inhabited by the descendants of Esau, Jacob's elder twin brother. Despite this familial connection, a long history of animosity existed between Edom and Israel, marked by border disputes, refusal of passage (Numbers 20:14-21), and active participation in or rejoicing over Judah's downfall. Culturally, Edom was known for its strategic location along trade routes and its perceived impregnable fortresses in the rocky terrain, leading to significant national pride, as noted in Obadiah 1:3-4. Their malicious actions against Judah during the Babylonian invasion, particularly their active role in plundering Jerusalem and blocking escape routes, are condemned in passages like Psalm 137:7 and Obadiah 1:10-14. Jeremiah's prophecy, therefore, is a divine response to Edom's enduring antagonism and hubris.
Key Themes
This verse powerfully contributes to several overarching themes within Jeremiah and the prophetic literature. Firstly, it highlights the theme of Divine Judgment, asserting God's absolute sovereignty over all nations and His righteous retribution for sin, especially pride and hostility towards His chosen people. The declaration of desolation is a direct consequence of Edom's actions and their defiance of God. Secondly, it underscores the theme of Utter Desolation, signifying a complete and irreversible ruin. This is not merely a military defeat but a transformation into an uninhabitable wasteland, a common prophetic motif for nations under divine curse, echoed in Isaiah 34:10. Thirdly, the imagery of passersby being "astonished" and "hissing" emphasizes the Public Spectacle of Ruin. Edom's downfall will be so profound and shocking that it elicits not pity, but a horrified contempt and symbolic scorn, serving as a stark warning to other nations and a vindication of God's justice. Finally, the historical fulfillment of prophecies against Edom, leading to its eventual disappearance as a distinct nation, reinforces the theme of Prophetic Fulfillment and the reliability of God's word.
Exposition and Analysis
Key Word Analysis
This word denotes ruin and, by implication, consternation or astonishment. It describes a state of utter waste, emptiness, and destruction that evokes horror and shock in observers. In the context of Edom, it signifies a complete and irreversible state of ruin, rendering the land uninhabitable and a monument to divine judgment.
This primitive root means to stun (or intransitively, grow numb), leading to devastation or stupefaction. It conveys a sense of profound shock, horror, or stupor at an overwhelming destruction. The passersby will be so overwhelmed by the sight of Edom's ruin that they are left speechless and utterly bewildered by the extent of the calamity.
This word describes a shrill sound, a whistle or hiss, which can be used as a call or, as here, in scorn. It is a sound of derision, contempt, or sometimes amazement mixed with horror. The act of hissing by those who pass by Edom's ruins indicates a visceral reaction of disdain and revulsion at the severity of its judgment, a stark reversal of Edom's former pride.
Verse Breakdown
"Also Edom shall be a desolation:"
This opening clause serves as the core prophetic declaration, unequivocally stating the future state of Edom. The term "desolation" (Hebrew: shammâh) signifies not merely a defeat or decline, but a complete and utter ruin, transforming the land into an uninhabited wasteland. This is a divine decree, emphasizing the certainty and severity of the judgment against a nation known for its pride and antagonism towards God's people.
"every one that goeth by it shall be astonished,"
This clause describes the reaction of those who witness Edom's future state. The phrase "goeth by it" (Hebrew: ʻâbar) refers to travelers or passersby. Their reaction is one of profound "astonishment" (Hebrew: shâmêm), indicating a state of shock, horror, and stupefaction at the overwhelming extent of the destruction. It suggests that the ruin will be so severe and unexpected that it will leave observers utterly bewildered and speechless.
"and shall hiss at all the plagues thereof."
Building upon the astonishment, this final clause details another visceral reaction: "hissing" (Hebrew: shâraq). This sound, often associated with scorn, derision, or contempt, signifies a public expression of disdain and revulsion. The "plagues" (Hebrew: makkâh) refer to the calamities, judgments, or blows that have befallen Edom. The combined imagery of astonishment and hissing portrays a scene where Edom's downfall is not met with pity, but with a horrified contempt, a public spectacle of its profound and deserved ruin.
Literary Devices
Jeremiah 49:17 masterfully employs several Literary Devices to convey the gravity of Edom's impending judgment. The most prominent is Hyperbole, as the prophecy speaks of a desolation so absolute that it evokes extreme reactions from all who pass by. While rooted in reality, the language magnifies the scale of destruction to emphasize its divine origin and irreversible nature. Imagery is powerfully utilized, painting a vivid picture of a ruined landscape and the shocked, scornful reactions of travelers. The "hissing" is a strong auditory image, invoking a sense of public derision and a reversal of Edom's former pride. Furthermore, the verse uses Foreshadowing, not only of Edom's historical demise but also of the broader principle that divine justice will ultimately prevail against all forms of human arrogance and opposition to God's will. The collective reaction of "astonishment" and "hissing" also functions as a form of Public Spectacle, turning Edom's downfall into a cautionary tale for all who would observe.
Theological and Thematic Connections
Jeremiah 49:17 profoundly illustrates God's unwavering justice and sovereignty over all nations. It serves as a stark reminder that no kingdom, however proud or seemingly secure, is beyond the reach of divine judgment when it acts in defiance of God's righteous standards and harbors malice against His people. Edom's desolation underscores the principle that pride (as seen in their self-reliance and perceived invincibility) precedes destruction, and that active hostility towards God's purposes carries severe consequences. This prophecy affirms that God sees and will ultimately address all injustice, ensuring that His ultimate plan for redemption and righteousness will prevail.
Reflection and Application
The ancient prophecy against Edom in Jeremiah 49:17 holds enduring lessons for believers today, transcending its historical context. It calls us to a profound humility, recognizing that all human strength, pride, and perceived security are fleeting before the sovereign power of God. Just as Edom's arrogance led to its ruin, we are warned against the dangers of self-reliance, nationalistic pride, or any form of hubris that elevates itself against God's will or His people. This verse also offers immense comfort and reassurance to those who experience injustice or oppression, reminding us that God is actively engaged in the affairs of nations and individuals. He sees every act of malice and will, in His perfect timing, bring about His righteous judgment. Our call, therefore, is to trust in His sovereignty, to align our lives with His justice, and to cultivate a spirit of humility and compassion rather than pride and antagonism.
Questions for Reflection
FAQ
Why was God's judgment against Edom so severe?
God's judgment against Edom was severe primarily due to their consistent and deeply rooted hostility towards Israel, God's chosen people, despite their familial ties as descendants of Esau, Jacob's brother. Edom's pride, mentioned in Obadiah 1:3, also played a significant role. Most notably, they actively rejoiced in and even participated in the Babylonian destruction of Jerusalem, blocking escape routes and plundering the city, as detailed in Psalm 137:7 and Obadiah 1:10-14. This malicious behavior against God's covenant people brought about a just and comprehensive divine retribution, serving as an example of God's sovereignty over all nations and His commitment to justice.
Christ-Centered Fulfillment
While Jeremiah 49:17 speaks of a specific historical judgment against Edom, its theological implications find profound Christ-centered fulfillment. The desolation of Edom, a nation characterized by pride and hostility, foreshadows the ultimate judgment that will fall upon all who reject God's rule and persist in rebellion against Him. Christ, as the righteous judge, will one day execute perfect justice, bringing to an end all forms of evil and opposition to God's kingdom, as described in Revelation 20:11-15. Furthermore, Edom's "plagues" of judgment stand in stark contrast to the deliverance offered through Christ. He is the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world, bearing the ultimate "plague" of God's wrath on the cross, so that those who believe might escape eternal desolation and receive eternal life (Romans 5:8). Thus, the prophecy against Edom not only warns of divine judgment but also implicitly points to the necessity and glory of Christ's redemptive work, which offers salvation from the very desolation that unrepentant sin inevitably brings.