49:24 49:24

Jeremiah 49:25

49:26 49:26

Bible Versions

How is the city of praise not left, the city of my joy!
How is the city {H5892} of praise {H8416} not left {H5800}, the city {H7151} of my joy {H4885}!
How can a city so praised be deserted, a city that gave me such joy?
How is the city of praise not forsaken, the town that brings Me joy?
How is the city of praise not forsaken, the city of my joy?

Understanding Jeremiah 49:25 (KJV)

Jeremiah 49:25 is a poignant lament within the prophet Jeremiah's pronouncements of judgment against various foreign nations. This particular verse focuses on the impending downfall of **Damascus**, a once-proud and influential city. The prophet, or perhaps the Lord through the prophet, expresses deep sorrow and surprise over its imminent destruction, using poetic language to highlight its former glory.

Context: Prophecy Against Damascus

This verse is found within a larger section of the book of Jeremiah (chapters 46-51) dedicated to prophecies concerning nations surrounding Judah. Jeremiah 49 specifically addresses Ammon, Edom, Damascus, Kedar, Hazor, and Elam. Verses 23-27 detail the prophecy against Damascus, painting a picture of a city gripped by fear and distress as an invading force approaches. The rhetorical question, "How is the city of praise not left, the city of my joy!" serves as a dramatic exclamation regarding the unexpected and complete devastation awaiting this significant capital. Damascus was renowned for its beauty, wealth, and strategic importance in the ancient Near East, making its fall all the more striking.

Key Themes and Messages

  • The Fall of the Mighty: The verse emphasizes that no city, however great or celebrated ("city of praise," "city of my joy"), is immune to divine judgment. Damascus, a symbol of human achievement and power, is shown to be vulnerable. This resonates with broader biblical themes of pride preceding a fall, as seen in Proverbs 16:18.
  • Divine Sovereignty and Judgment: Ultimately, the destruction of Damascus is presented as part of God's sovereign plan. Though the immediate agent might be a human army, the ultimate cause is the Lord's judgment upon the nations for their rebellion, idolatry, or oppression. This highlights God's control over all earthly kingdoms and their destinies, a truth frequently declared throughout the prophetic books.
  • Lament Over Loss: The verse is framed as a lament, expressing sorrow over the loss of what was once glorious. This shows that even in judgment, there can be an element of grief over the destruction of human flourishing, even if that flourishing was built on unrighteousness.

Linguistic Insights

The Hebrew words for "praise" (tehillah, תְּהִלָּה) and "joy" (masos, מָשׂוֹשׂ) convey a sense of renown, celebration, and delight. The phrase "How is... not left?" (Hebrew: אֵיךְ לֹא נֶעֶזְבָהּ) is a strong rhetorical question expressing profound dismay and astonishment. It's not a question of *why* it's not left, but an exclamation of *how* it could be possible that such a grand city is being utterly abandoned and destroyed. This rhetorical device amplifies the shock and tragedy of Damascus's impending doom, suggesting an unexpected and devastating outcome for a city of such stature.

Practical Application and Reflection

Jeremiah 49:25 serves as a powerful reminder that worldly power, wealth, and reputation are fleeting. No matter how strong or celebrated a nation or individual may seem, they are ultimately subject to the will and judgment of God. For believers today, this verse encourages a focus on eternal values rather than temporal successes. It also underscores the truth that God is sovereign over all nations and their affairs. We are called to live in humility and righteousness, recognizing that true and lasting joy comes from the Lord, not from earthly possessions or achievements. This echoes the sentiment found in Matthew 6:19-21, where Jesus teaches about laying up treasures in heaven.

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.

  • Jeremiah 33:9

    And it shall be to me a name of joy, a praise and an honour before all the nations of the earth, which shall hear all the good that I do unto them: and they shall fear and tremble for all the goodness and for all the prosperity that I procure unto it.

  • Jeremiah 51:41

    How is Sheshach taken! and how is the praise of the whole earth surprised! how is Babylon become an astonishment among the nations!

  • Psalms 37:35

    I have seen the wicked in great power, and spreading himself like a green bay tree.

  • Psalms 37:36

    Yet he passed away, and, lo, he [was] not: yea, I sought him, but he could not be found.

  • Isaiah 1:26

    And I will restore thy judges as at the first, and thy counsellors as at the beginning: afterward thou shalt be called, The city of righteousness, the faithful city.

  • Isaiah 14:4

    ¶ That thou shalt take up this proverb against the king of Babylon, and say, How hath the oppressor ceased! the golden city ceased!

  • Isaiah 14:6

    He who smote the people in wrath with a continual stroke, he that ruled the nations in anger, is persecuted, [and] none hindereth.
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