Jeremiah 49:6

KJV

And afterward I will bring again the captivity of the children of Ammon, saith the LORD.

KJV (with Strong's)

And afterward {H310} I will bring again {H7725} the captivity {H7622} of the children {H1121} of Ammon {H5983}, saith {H5002} the LORD {H3068}.

Complete Jewish Bible

But afterwards, I will bring back the exiles of 'Amon," says ADONAI.

Berean Standard Bible

Yet afterward I will restore the Ammonites from captivity,” declares the LORD.

American Standard Version

But afterward I will bring back the captivity of the children of Ammon, saith Jehovah.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Jeremiah 49:6 delivers a surprising and profound promise of future restoration for the Ammonites, a nation historically marked by intense hostility towards Israel and previously condemned to severe judgment in the preceding verses. This declaration stands as a powerful testament to God's ultimate sovereignty, demonstrating His capacity not only to execute justice upon nations for their pride and idolatry but also to extend transformative mercy and reverse the fortunes of even His adversaries, revealing a redemptive dimension to His divine plan that encompasses all peoples.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Jeremiah 49:6 is situated within a larger prophetic oracle against foreign nations, specifically focusing on Ammon in [Jeremiah 49:1-6](/jeremiah/49 "Jeremiah 49 - Prophecy Against Ammon"). The verses immediately preceding it ([Jeremiah 49:1-5](/jeremiah/49-1-5 "Jeremiah 49:1-5 - Judgment on Ammon")) detail a scathing indictment and pronouncement of severe judgment against Ammon for their pride, their worship of the idol Milcom (Molech), and their aggressive encroachment upon the territory of Gad, a tribe of Israel. The prophecy foretells the desolation of their capital, Rabbah, and the humiliation of their false god. Verse 6 thus provides a stark and unexpected counterpoint to this severe condemnation, introducing a note of future hope and divine reversal that interrupts the otherwise unmitigated pronouncements of destruction. This sudden shift highlights the sovereign prerogative of Yahweh to determine the destiny of all peoples, not merely to judge, but also to restore, underscoring the comprehensive nature of His divine authority.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The Ammonites were a Semitic people, descendants of Ben-Ammi, the son of Lot (as recorded in [Genesis 19:38](/genesis/19-38 "Genesis 19:38 - Origin of the Ammonites")). Their territory lay east of the Jordan River, bordering Israel, particularly the tribes of Gad and Reuben. Throughout Israel's history, the Ammonites were frequently adversaries, engaging in conflicts, raids, and oppression (e.g., [Judges 3:12-14](/judges/3-12-14 "Judges 3:12-14 - Eglon of Moab and Ammonite Oppression") and [1 Samuel 11:1-11](/1_samuel/11-1-11 "1 Samuel 11:1-11 - Nahash the Ammonite and Saul's Victory")). They were known for their worship of Milcom (Molech), a deity associated with child sacrifice, which was an abomination to Yahweh. The prophecy in Jeremiah likely reflects the geopolitical turmoil of the late 7th and early 6th centuries BCE, as the Neo-Babylonian Empire rose to dominance, impacting all nations in the Levant, including Ammon. The "captivity" mentioned could refer to the impending Babylonian conquest that would affect many nations, including Ammon, after the fall of Jerusalem.
* **Key Themes:** This verse contributes significantly to several overarching themes in Jeremiah and the broader prophetic literature. Firstly, it underscores the theme of **Divine Sovereignty and Universal Justice**, demonstrating that God's authority extends beyond Israel to encompass all nations. His judgment on Ammon for their idolatry and aggression affirms His justice, yet His subsequent promise of restoration reveals His ultimate control over the destinies of kingdoms, proving His power to both destroy and renew. Secondly, the verse powerfully illustrates **Mercy Amidst Judgment**. Even for a hostile nation like Ammon, God's long-term plan includes a measure of restoration, showcasing His compassionate character that tempers wrath with grace. This pattern is echoed in prophecies concerning other nations, such as Moab ([Jeremiah 48:47](/jeremiah/48-47 "Jeremiah 48:47 - Restoration of Moab")) and Elam ([Jeremiah 49:39](/jeremiah/49-39 "Jeremiah 49:39 - Restoration of Elam")), suggesting a broader divine intention for redemption beyond Israel. Finally, it highlights the theme of **Hope Beyond Despair**, offering a beacon of future possibility even in the darkest prophecies of desolation. This suggests that divine judgment is not always final and that even after experiencing severe consequences, there is a potential for a turnaround and renewal, reflecting God's redemptive purpose for all creation.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **afterward (Hebrew, _ʼachar'_):** This adverb (H310) signifies a temporal sequence, indicating something that will happen "after" a preceding event. In this context, it critically points to a future reversal of fortunes for Ammon, occurring *after* the period of judgment and desolation described in the preceding verses. It suggests that divine judgment is not necessarily the final word, but rather a prelude to a subsequent act of God's redemptive or restorative power.
* **bring again (Hebrew, _shûwb'_):** This primitive root (H7725) means "to turn back," "to return," or "to restore." When paired with "captivity" (as in the idiom _shuv shevut_), it conveys the powerful sense of reversing a state of affairs, not merely a physical return from exile but a comprehensive restoration of prosperity, well-being, and a former state of flourishing. It emphasizes God's active and decisive intervention to undo a condition of suffering or desolation.
* **captivity (Hebrew, _shᵉbûwth'_):** This noun (H7622) refers to "exile" or "prisoners," but also figuratively to a "former state of prosperity." In the context of the idiom "bring again the captivity" (_shuv shevut_), it denotes a reversal from a state of desolation, implying a restoration to a condition of blessing and national integrity. It encompasses not just the physical return of people but the recovery of national vitality and fortune.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And afterward":** This phrase sets the temporal stage, indicating that the promised restoration will not occur immediately but at a later, divinely appointed time, following the period of judgment and desolation described in the preceding verses. It underscores God's long-term sovereign plan that extends beyond immediate punishment.
* **"I will bring again the captivity":** This is a powerful idiom (_shuv shevut_) signifying a complete reversal of fortune. It means God will restore the Ammonites from their state of exile and desolation, not merely physically but also in terms of their national well-being and prosperity. It highlights God's active, sovereign, and redemptive intervention in the affairs of nations.
* **"of the children of Ammon":** This clearly identifies the recipients of this surprising promise. Despite their historical enmity towards Israel and their recent condemnation for idolatry and aggression, God's promise of restoration is explicitly directed towards them, emphasizing the breadth of His mercy and the universal scope of His dominion.
* **"saith the LORD":** This concluding phrase serves as a divine authentication, emphasizing that this is not a human prediction or wish, but a direct, authoritative declaration from Yahweh (H3068, _Yᵉhôvâh_), the self-existent and eternal God of Israel. It guarantees the certainty and ultimate fulfillment of the prophecy, grounding it in divine decree.

#### Literary Devices
Jeremiah 49:6 employs several significant literary devices that amplify its profound message. The most prominent is **Contrast**, as this verse directly opposes the preceding verses that pronounce severe judgment and desolation upon Ammon. This abrupt shift from condemnation to future restoration creates a powerful rhetorical effect, highlighting the unexpected nature of divine mercy and God's sovereign prerogative to determine the destiny of all peoples. The phrase "bring again the captivity" is a powerful **Idiom** (_shuv shevut_), which is a common prophetic expression used to denote a complete reversal of fortunes, a restoration from a state of ruin to one of prosperity. This idiom functions as a form of **Symbolism**, where "captivity" represents not just physical exile but a broader state of national suffering and "bringing again" symbolizes a comprehensive divine renewal and the re-establishment of a flourishing state. Finally, the concluding phrase "saith the LORD" is a classic prophetic **Formulaic Declaration** (or "oracle formula"), which serves to authenticate the message as divinely inspired and underscores the absolute authority and certainty of God's word, leaving no doubt as to its divine origin and eventual fulfillment.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Jeremiah 49:6 is a profound theological statement, revealing a God whose justice is tempered by an astounding mercy that extends even to His historical adversaries. It challenges a narrow understanding of divine election, demonstrating that while Israel holds a unique covenantal position, God's sovereign plan encompasses all nations. This promise of restoration for Ammon, a people often depicted as hostile and idolatrous, underscores the universal scope of God's redemptive purposes. It implies that divine judgment, while severe and necessary, is not always final, and that God retains the prerogative to bring about renewal and reconciliation even in the most unlikely circumstances. This truth offers a powerful message of hope, affirming that God's character is ultimately geared towards life and restoration, even when humanity's choices lead to desolation.

* [Jeremiah 48:47](/jeremiah/48-47 "Jeremiah 48:47 - Restoration of Moab")
* [Jeremiah 49:39](/jeremiah/49-39 "Jeremiah 49:39 - Restoration of Elam")
* [Lamentations 3:22-23](/lamentations/3-22-23 "Lamentations 3:22-23 - The Lord's Mercies Endure")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Jeremiah 49:6 offers a powerful and counter-intuitive message of hope and divine grace that transcends human expectations. For us today, it serves as a profound reminder that God's mercy is not confined to those we deem "worthy" or "our own," but extends even to those who have been adversaries or have made choices that led to their own downfall. This verse challenges us to embrace a broader vision of God's redemptive power, recognizing that His capacity for restoration is boundless, reaching beyond our comfort zones and prejudices. It encourages us to hold onto hope, even when circumstances seem dire or when we face the consequences of our own or others' actions, knowing that "afterward," God can bring about a complete reversal and renewal. This truth should inspire us to pray for and work towards the restoration of broken individuals, communities, and nations, trusting in the sovereign God who declares, "I will bring again the captivity."

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does God's promise of restoration for Ammon challenge your understanding of divine justice and mercy?**
* **In what areas of your life, or in the lives of those you know, do you need to trust God to "bring again the captivity" or restore what seems lost?**
* **How might this verse encourage you to extend grace and hope to those you perceive as "adversaries" or "unworthy" of restoration?**

### FAQ
**What does "bring again the captivity" mean in this context?**

Answer: The phrase "bring again the captivity" (Hebrew: _shuv shevut_) is a powerful idiom in biblical prophecy. It doesn't always refer to a literal return from physical exile, though it can. More broadly and profoundly, it signifies a complete reversal of fortunes, a restoration from a state of desolation, ruin, or judgment to a state of prosperity, well-being, and flourishing. For Ammon, it means that after a period of divine judgment and devastation, God promises to actively intervene and restore their national life and prosperity. This idiom is also used for Israel's restoration in passages like [Jeremiah 30:3](/jeremiah/30-3 "Jeremiah 30:3 - Restoration of Israel and Judah") and for other nations such as Moab in [Jeremiah 48:47](/jeremiah/48-47 "Jeremiah 48:47 - Restoration of Moab").

**Why would God promise restoration to Ammon, a nation often hostile to Israel?**

Answer: This promise highlights God's universal sovereignty and His character, which encompasses both justice and mercy. While Ammon was indeed a historical adversary of Israel and engaged in idolatry, God's authority extends over all nations, not just Israel. The prophecies against foreign nations in Jeremiah (chapters [Jeremiah 46](/jeremiah/46 "Jeremiah 46 - Prophecy Against Egypt")-[Jeremiah 51](/jeremiah/51 "Jeremiah 51 - Prophecy Against Babylon")) demonstrate that God judges all peoples for their sins, but also that His redemptive purposes can extend beyond His covenant people. This surprising promise for Ammon, alongside similar promises for Moab ([Jeremiah 48:47](/jeremiah/48-47 "Jeremiah 48:47 - Restoration of Moab")) and Elam ([Jeremiah 49:39](/jeremiah/49-39 "Jeremiah 49:39 - Restoration of Elam")), underscores the breadth of God's compassion and His ultimate desire for all nations to acknowledge Him, even if through the crucible of judgment. It reveals that His plan is ultimately one of restoration and hope, even for those who have opposed Him.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Jeremiah 49:6, with its surprising promise of restoration for a hostile nation, finds its ultimate and most profound fulfillment in the person and work of Jesus Christ. While the immediate context speaks of national restoration, the New Testament reveals a broader and deeper "bringing again of captivity" for all humanity, Jew and Gentile alike, through Christ. The judgment pronounced upon Ammon for their sin and idolatry foreshadows the universal human condition of being enslaved by sin and alienated from God, as described in [Romans 3:23](/romans/3-23 "Romans 3:23 - All Have Sinned"). Yet, just as God promised to reverse Ammon's fortunes, Jesus Christ, the Lamb of God, entered a world held captive by sin and death to achieve the ultimate liberation. Through His atoning sacrifice on the cross, He "brought again the captivity" of all who believe, ransoming us from the dominion of darkness and bringing us into His marvelous light ([Colossians 1:13-14](/colossians/1-13-14 "Colossians 1:13-14 - Delivered from Darkness")). This restoration is not merely a return to a former state, but a new creation ([2 Corinthians 5:17](/2_corinthians/5-17 "2 Corinthians 5:17 - New Creation in Christ")), a spiritual rebirth that grants us adoption into God's family and the promise of eternal life ([John 3:3](/john/3-3 "John 3:3 - Born Again")). Thus, the unexpected mercy shown to Ammon in Jeremiah 49:6 points forward to the boundless, universal grace offered to all nations through the redemptive work of Jesus Christ, who truly restores the fortunes of humanity.

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

Jeremiah 49:39

But it shall come to pass in the latter days, [that] I will bring again the captivity of Elam, saith the LORD.

Jeremiah 48:47

Yet will I bring again the captivity of Moab in the latter days, saith the LORD. Thus far [is] the judgment of Moab.

Isaiah 19:18

¶ In that day shall five cities in the land of Egypt speak the language of Canaan, and swear to the LORD of hosts; one shall be called, The city of destruction.

Isaiah 19:23

In that day shall there be a highway out of Egypt to Assyria, and the Assyrian shall come into Egypt, and the Egyptian into Assyria, and the Egyptians shall serve with the Assyrians.

Ezekiel 16:53

When I shall bring again their captivity, the captivity of Sodom and her daughters, and the captivity of Samaria and her daughters, then [will I bring again] the captivity of thy captives in the midst of them:

Isaiah 23:18

And her merchandise and her hire shall be holiness to the LORD: it shall not be treasured nor laid up; for her merchandise shall be for them that dwell before the LORD, to eat sufficiently, and for durable clothing.

Jeremiah 46:26

And I will deliver them into the hand of those that seek their lives, and into the hand of Nebuchadrezzar king of Babylon, and into the hand of his servants: and afterward it shall be inhabited, as in the days of old, saith the LORD.