Jeremiah 49:31

KJV

Arise, get you up unto the wealthy nation, that dwelleth without care, saith the LORD, which have neither gates nor bars, [which] dwell alone.

KJV (with Strong's)

Arise {H6965}, get you up {H5927} unto the wealthy {H7961} nation {H1471}, that dwelleth {H3427} without care {H983}, saith {H5002} the LORD {H3068}, which have neither gates {H1817} nor bars {H1280}, which dwell {H7931} alone {H910}.

Complete Jewish Bible

Get up! March on a nation at ease, that lives secure," says ADONAI. "They have neither gates nor bars; they live in isolation.

Berean Standard Bible

Rise up, advance against a nation at ease, one that dwells securely,” declares the LORD. “They have no gates or bars; they live alone.

American Standard Version

Arise, get you up unto a nation that is at ease, that dwelleth without care, saith Jehovah; that have neither gates nor bars, that dwell alone.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Jeremiah 49:31 delivers a stark prophetic declaration from the LORD, commanding an unnamed invading force to assault a "wealthy nation" described as dwelling "without care," lacking conventional fortifications like gates or bars, and living in isolated security. This divine pronouncement underscores God's absolute sovereignty over all nations, serving as a powerful warning against the perils of complacent self-reliance and the futility of trusting in material wealth or perceived invincibility rather than in the divine protector.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Jeremiah 49:31 is situated within a broader section of Jeremiah's prophecies against foreign nations, specifically chapters 46-51. This particular oracle (Jeremiah 49:28-33) is directed against Kedar and the kingdoms of Hazor, nomadic Arab tribes dwelling in the desert regions east of Judah. These prophecies collectively demonstrate God's universal dominion, showing that His judgment extends beyond Israel to all peoples who defy His righteousness or grow complacent in their pride. The preceding verses in chapter 49 detail judgments against Ammon, Edom, and Damascus, setting a consistent tone of divine reckoning for nations that have opposed or ignored the Lord. The command to "Arise, get you up" is an imperative, signaling an imminent and divinely orchestrated invasion.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** Kedar and Hazor were powerful Arab confederations known for their wealth, primarily derived from extensive trade routes and vast livestock holdings. They were semi-nomadic or settled in unfortified encampments, relying on their remote desert locations and perhaps a reputation for fierce independence for security, rather than walled cities. Their "dwelling alone" suggests a lack of strong alliances with major powers, which, while perhaps fostering a sense of self-sufficiency, also left them vulnerable. The historical backdrop is the rise of the Neo-Babylonian Empire under Nebuchadnezzar, whom God frequently used as His instrument of judgment against various nations, including Judah, and now these desert tribes. Their perceived "carelessness" or security was a common characteristic of nations targeted for judgment, implying a spiritual complacency that overlooked divine justice.
* **Key Themes:** This verse powerfully contributes to several overarching themes within Jeremiah and the prophetic literature. Firstly, it highlights the theme of **False Security and Complacency**, where nations, like the one described, place their trust in their wealth or isolation rather than in God, leading to their downfall. This echoes warnings found elsewhere, such as in [Proverbs 11:28](/proverbs/11-28 "Proverbs 11:28 - Trusting in Riches") which cautions against trusting in riches, or [Psalm 33:16-17](/psalm/33-16 "Psalm 33:16-17 - No King is Saved by His Army") which states that a king is not saved by his army's strength. Secondly, it emphasizes **Divine Sovereignty in Judgment**, affirming that God is actively involved in the affairs of all nations, orchestrating their rise and fall according to His righteous purposes. The phrase "saith the LORD" underscores that this is a divine decree, not merely a human conflict. Lastly, it touches on the theme of **Vulnerability of Worldly Defenses**, demonstrating that material wealth and lack of conventional fortifications ("neither gates nor bars") offer no ultimate protection against divinely ordained judgment, a truth also seen in the fall of seemingly impregnable cities like Babylon itself in [Jeremiah 51](/jeremiah/51 "Jeremiah 51 - Prophecy Against Babylon").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **wealthy (Hebrew, _shâlêv'_):** This word (H7961) denotes a state of being tranquil, at ease, or in prosperity. While it can simply mean "secure" or "prosperous," in this prophetic context, it often carries a negative connotation of being "careless" or complacent due to one's perceived security or abundance. It describes a nation that feels safe and undisturbed, often to the point of spiritual negligence or arrogance.
* **nation (Hebrew, _gôwy'_):** This term (H1471) refers to a foreign nation or people, distinct from Israel. In prophetic literature, "goyim" (plural) often refers to the Gentile nations, emphasizing their distinct identity and their place within God's universal plan of judgment and salvation. Here, it specifically identifies the target of divine judgment as a non-Israelite entity.
* **without care (Hebrew, _beṭach'_):** Derived from the root H983, this word signifies safety, security, or confidence. When used in conjunction with "dwelleth," as here, "dwelling in security" or "without care" often implies a false sense of security, an overconfidence that leads to a lack of vigilance or a spiritual blindness to impending danger. It highlights a state of being undisturbed and trusting in one's own defenses or circumstances.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Arise, get you up unto the wealthy nation":** This is a divine command, an imperative issued by the LORD to an unnamed invading force, likely the Babylonians. The call to "Arise, get you up" signifies an immediate and decisive military action. The target is identified as a nation characterized by its prosperity and sense of ease.
* **"that dwelleth without care, saith the LORD":** This clause further describes the target nation, emphasizing its complacent and overconfident state. They are living in a perceived state of security, unconcerned by potential threats. The phrase "saith the LORD" is a prophetic formula, powerfully asserting that this command and the ensuing judgment originate directly from God's sovereign will and word.
* **"which have neither gates nor bars, [which] dwell alone.":** This final part of the verse provides crucial details about the nation's lack of conventional defenses and its isolated existence. "Neither gates nor bars" indicates a lack of fortified cities or strong defensive structures, making them physically vulnerable. "Dwell alone" suggests they are without allies or external support, further compounding their exposure to attack. This isolation, combined with their wealth and complacency, makes them an easy target for the divinely appointed invader.

#### Literary Devices
The verse employs several potent literary devices. **Personification** is subtly present as the "nation" is described as "dwelling without care," attributing a human emotional state (carelessness) to a collective entity. **Irony** is central to the passage: a "wealthy nation" that should ostensibly be able to afford strong defenses is precisely the one described as having "neither gates nor bars," making their wealth ironically useless in the face of judgment. Their "dwelling alone" might have been a source of pride or perceived security, but it becomes a reason for their utter vulnerability. The use of **direct address** ("Arise, get you up") lends urgency and immediacy to the prophetic command, making the divine decree feel active and present. The repeated emphasis on their lack of defenses and their complacent state serves as a powerful **juxtaposition** against the impending, divinely ordered assault, highlighting the stark contrast between their false security and their true peril.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Jeremiah 49:31 profoundly illustrates the biblical principle that true security is found not in material possessions, human ingenuity, or geographical isolation, but solely in the sovereign care and protection of the Almighty God. The nation's complacent wealth and lack of physical defenses serve as a stark warning against self-reliance and the spiritual dangers of a life lived "without care" for divine truth or justice. This passage underscores God's active involvement in the rise and fall of nations, demonstrating His unwavering commitment to justice and His ultimate authority over all earthly powers. It challenges believers to examine where their ultimate trust lies, urging them to build their lives on the unshakable foundation of God's promises rather than the fleeting assurances of worldly prosperity or human strength.

* [Proverbs 11:28](/proverbs/11-28 "Proverbs 11:28 - Trusting in Riches")
* [Psalm 20:7](/psalm/20-7 "Psalm 20:7 - Trust in the Name of the Lord")
* [Luke 12:16-21](/luke/12-16 "Luke 12:16-21 - The Parable of the Rich Fool")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Jeremiah 49:31 serves as a timeless mirror for both nations and individuals, reflecting the dangers of complacency, self-sufficiency, and misplaced trust. In a world that often equates wealth with security and isolation with independence, this verse reminds us that true safety and peace are found only in God. It challenges us to critically evaluate the "gates and bars" we erect in our own lives—whether financial portfolios, social status, or even intellectual pride—and to recognize their ultimate inadequacy in the face of life's inevitable challenges or divine reckoning. The call to "Arise" for judgment against a "careless" nation should prompt us to cultivate spiritual vigilance, humility, and a constant reliance on God, ensuring that our confidence is rooted in His unfailing character rather than in fleeting worldly advantages. It encourages us to live with an awareness of God's sovereignty, understanding that He holds all things in His hands and that genuine security flows from a surrendered and obedient heart.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **What "wealth" or "isolation" in my life might be fostering a false sense of security or spiritual complacency?**
* **In what areas of my life do I tend to rely on my own "gates and bars" (e.g., finances, reputation, plans) rather than on God's provision and protection?**
* **How can I cultivate a greater sense of spiritual vigilance and dependence on God, avoiding the "without care" attitude described in the verse?**
* **What does this verse teach me about God's sovereignty over nations and individuals, and how should that truth shape my prayers and actions?**

### FAQ
**What is the identity of the "wealthy nation" in Jeremiah 49:31?**

Answer: While the verse itself doesn't explicitly name the nation, the broader context of Jeremiah 49:28-33 indicates that the prophecy is directed against Kedar and the kingdoms of Hazor. These were powerful and wealthy Arab tribes, known for their nomadic or semi-nomadic existence in the desert regions east of Judah. Their wealth came primarily from trade and livestock, and they were characterized by their independent, often isolated, way of life, which contributed to their sense of being "without care" and "dwelling alone."

**Why does God target nations that "dwell without care" and "alone"?**

Answer: God targets nations like Kedar and Hazor not simply because they are wealthy or isolated, but because these characteristics often lead to spiritual complacency, arrogance, and a false sense of security that excludes reliance on God. Their "dwelling without care" signifies a lack of vigilance and an overconfidence in their own resources or remoteness, neglecting the divine authority over all nations. The phrase "dwell alone" suggests a lack of alliances or a self-sufficient pride that leaves them vulnerable when God's judgment is enacted. This judgment serves as a demonstration of God's universal sovereignty and His righteous opposition to pride and self-reliance, as seen in other prophecies against nations in [Jeremiah 46-51](/jeremiah/46 "Jeremiah 46-51 - Prophecies Against Foreign Nations").

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
While Jeremiah 49:31 speaks of a specific judgment against a complacent nation in the Old Testament, its underlying theological principles find profound Christ-centered fulfillment. The "wealthy nation" trusting in its own resources and isolation prefigures humanity's universal tendency to seek security apart from God. In Christ, we see the ultimate answer to such false security. Jesus, who "though he was rich, yet for your sake he became poor" ([2 Corinthians 8:9](/2_corinthians/8-9 "2 Corinthians 8:9 - Christ's Example of Generosity")), offers a kingdom where true wealth is not material but spiritual, found in righteousness, peace, and joy in the Holy Spirit ([Romans 14:17](/romans/14-17 "Romans 14:17 - The Kingdom of God")). The "gates and bars" that fail to protect the complacent nation are contrasted with Christ, who is the "door" ([John 10:9](/john/10-9 "John 10:9 - Jesus, the Door")) and the "good shepherd" ([John 10:11](/john/10-11 "John 10:11 - Jesus, the Good Shepherd")) who provides ultimate security and eternal life. Furthermore, the judgment against the "careless" nation foreshadows the final judgment where those who have rejected God's provision in Christ will face the consequences of their spiritual complacency ([Matthew 25:31-46](/matthew/25-31 "Matthew 25:31-46 - The Judgment of the Nations")). In contrast, believers find their ultimate "dwelling alone" with God, not in vulnerable isolation, but in the secure and intimate fellowship of Christ, who promises, "I will never leave you nor forsake you" ([Hebrews 13:5](/hebrews/13-5 "Hebrews 13:5 - God's Promise of Presence")). Thus, Jeremiah 49:31, in its warning against false security, points us to Christ as the sole source of true and lasting peace, protection, and eternal prosperity.

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

Ezekiel 38:11

And thou shalt say, I will go up to the land of unwalled villages; I will go to them that are at rest, that dwell safely, all of them dwelling without walls, and having neither bars nor gates,

Isaiah 47:8

Therefore hear now this, [thou that art] given to pleasures, that dwellest carelessly, that sayest in thine heart, I [am], and none else beside me; I shall not sit [as] a widow, neither shall I know the loss of children:

Deuteronomy 33:28

Israel then shall dwell in safety alone: the fountain of Jacob [shall be] upon a land of corn and wine; also his heavens shall drop down dew.

Micah 7:14

¶ Feed thy people with thy rod, the flock of thine heritage, which dwell solitarily [in] the wood, in the midst of Carmel: let them feed [in] Bashan and Gilead, as in the days of old.

Numbers 23:9

For from the top of the rocks I see him, and from the hills I behold him: lo, the people shall dwell alone, and shall not be reckoned among the nations.

Jeremiah 48:11

Moab hath been at ease from his youth, and he hath settled on his lees, and hath not been emptied from vessel to vessel, neither hath he gone into captivity: therefore his taste remained in him, and his scent is not changed.

Isaiah 32:11

Tremble, ye women that are at ease; be troubled, ye careless ones: strip you, and make you bare, and gird [sackcloth] upon [your] loins.