Jeremiah 50:35

KJV

A sword [is] upon the Chaldeans, saith the LORD, and upon the inhabitants of Babylon, and upon her princes, and upon her wise [men].

KJV (with Strong's)

A sword {H2719} is upon the Chaldeans {H3778}, saith {H5002} the LORD {H3068}, and upon the inhabitants {H3427} of Babylon {H894}, and upon her princes {H8269}, and upon her wise {H2450} men.

Complete Jewish Bible

ADONAI says, "A sword hangs over the Kasdim, and over those who live in Bavel, over her leaders and over her sages.

Berean Standard Bible

A sword is against the Chaldeans, declares the LORD, against those who live in Babylon, and against her officials and wise men.

American Standard Version

A sword is upon the Chaldeans, saith Jehovah, and upon the inhabitants of Babylon, and upon her princes, and upon her wise men.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Jeremiah 50:35 pronounces a comprehensive divine judgment against Babylon, prophesying a devastating "sword" that will fall upon its ruling Chaldean people, its general populace, its political and military leadership, and its renowned intellectual elite. This declaration, directly from the LORD, underscores His absolute sovereignty over all nations and His righteous retribution against the empire that had oppressed His chosen people, ultimately revealing the futility of human power and wisdom when confronted by divine decree.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Jeremiah 50:35 is situated within a lengthy and climactic prophetic oracle against Babylon, spanning chapters 50 and 51 of the book of Jeremiah. This extensive section serves as a theological counterpoint to the earlier prophecies detailing Judah's destruction, now turning God's righteous wrath upon the very empire He had used as an instrument of judgment. The immediate verses preceding Jeremiah 50:35 describe Babylon's impending desolation, the shame of its idols, and a divine call for Israel to flee from the land of the north, emphasizing the reversal of fortunes. Following this verse, the prophecy continues to elaborate on the specific agents of Babylon's downfall (primarily the Medes and Persians), detailing the utter ruin that will befall its land and highlighting the irreversible nature of its desolation, all culminating in the ultimate vindication of God's covenant people.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The prophecy against Babylon was delivered during a pivotal and tumultuous period in the late 7th and early 6th centuries BCE. Under Nebuchadnezzar II, the Neo-Babylonian Empire had ascended to become the dominant global superpower, culminating in its conquest of Judah and the exile of its inhabitants in 586 BCE. The Chaldeans were the ruling Semitic dynasty within this formidable empire, celebrated for their military prowess, advanced astronomical observations, and intricate systems of divination and magic. Babylon itself was a city of unparalleled magnificence, renowned for its massive defensive walls, the Euphrates River flowing through its heart, and its immense wealth. The "princes" mentioned refer to the powerful military commanders and administrative officials who governed the empire, while the "wise men" denote the influential class of astrologers, diviners, and royal counselors who advised the king, embodying the intellectual and spiritual pride of the empire. This prophecy, therefore, directly confronts the perceived invincibility and self-sufficiency of a global superpower that had dared to defy the God of Israel.
* **Key Themes:** Jeremiah 50:35 powerfully contributes to several overarching themes within the book of Jeremiah and the broader prophetic literature. Firstly, it highlights **Divine Judgment and Retribution**, demonstrating that God holds even the most powerful nations accountable for their actions, particularly their arrogance, idolatry, and oppression of His people, a theme echoed in prophetic pronouncements against other nations (compare [Isaiah 13:1-22](/isaiah/13 "Isaiah 13 - Prophecy Against Babylon") and [Habakkuk 2:6-17](/habakkuk/2-6-17 "Habakkuk 2:6-17 - Woes Against the Oppressor")). Secondly, the declaration "saith the LORD" underscores **God's Absolute Sovereignty Over Nations**, asserting that no empire, regardless of its might, is beyond the reach of His control. The LORD, who had raised Babylon as an instrument of His judgment, now declares its downfall, illustrating His ultimate authority to "set up kings and remove kings" as profoundly stated in [Daniel 2:21](/daniel/2-21 "Daniel 2:21 - God's Sovereignty Over Kingdoms")). Thirdly, the specific targeting of "princes" and "wise men" emphasizes the **Futility of Human Wisdom and Power** when confronted with God's decree. Babylon's reliance on its military strength and its renowned intellectual class would prove utterly useless against the divine "sword," a theme powerfully echoed in the New Testament (see [1 Corinthians 1:19](/1_corinthians/1-19 "1 Corinthians 1:19 - God Makes Worldly Wisdom Foolish")). Finally, though not explicit in this verse alone, the broader context of Jeremiah 50-51 speaks to **Justice and Vindication for God's People**, as Babylon's fall is directly linked to the suffering it inflicted upon Judah, assuring Israel that God remembers His covenant and will ultimately deliver His own.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Sword (Hebrew, _chereb'_):** From the primitive root meaning "to be dry" or "to lay waste," this term primarily signifies a cutting instrument such as a knife or sword, but more profoundly, it represents war, destruction, and violent overthrow. In this prophetic context, "sword" is a powerful metaphor for the devastating judgment and complete ruin God is bringing upon Babylon, indicating a decisive and destructive divine intervention that will lay the empire waste. It conveys the idea of a comprehensive and inescapable calamity.
* **Chaldeans (Hebrew, _Kasdîy'_):** This term refers to the dominant Semitic people group who ruled the Neo-Babylonian Empire. While "Babylon" often refers to the city and the broader empire, "Chaldeans" specifically identifies the ethnic and ruling class, who were known for their military prowess and, by implication, their association with astrology and divination. The Strong's definition notes this connection, highlighting their intellectual and spiritual influence, which would also be targeted by God's judgment, signifying the downfall of the very core of Babylonian power and wisdom.
* **Wise men (Hebrew, _châkâm'_):** Derived from a root meaning "to be wise," this word describes individuals possessing intelligence, skill, or cunning. In the Babylonian context, these were often the astrologers, diviners, magicians, and counselors who were highly esteemed for their knowledge, their ability to interpret omens, and their role in advising the king. Their inclusion in the list of those upon whom the "sword" falls underscores the futility of human intellect, strategic planning, and spiritual pride in averting divine judgment. It emphasizes that even the most profound worldly wisdom is powerless before the decree of the Almighty.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"A sword [is] upon the Chaldeans":** This opening declaration immediately establishes the nature and primary target of the divine judgment. The "sword" is a potent metaphor for violent, destructive judgment, indicating that the ruling elite and the very foundation of the Babylonian Empire, represented by the Chaldeans, are marked for utter destruction. It signifies a decisive and inescapable calamity.
* **"saith the LORD":** This crucial phrase authenticates the prophecy as a direct, authoritative declaration from Yahweh (Hebrew: _Yᵉhôvâh_), the covenant God of Israel. It emphasizes that this is not merely a human prediction or political analysis but a divine decree, guaranteeing its certainty and demonstrating God's ultimate sovereignty over all nations and historical events.
* **"and upon the inhabitants of Babylon":** The judgment extends beyond the ruling Chaldean class to encompass the general populace of the empire. This indicates a comprehensive and widespread destruction that will affect all levels of Babylonian society, leaving no segment untouched by the coming calamity, signifying a total societal collapse.
* **"and upon her princes":** This specifies the political and military leadership of Babylon. The "princes" (Hebrew: _sar_) were the powerful officials, governors, and military commanders who wielded significant authority and were responsible for the empire's might. Their inclusion signifies that Babylon's strength, leadership, and strategic planning will be rendered utterly useless against God's judgment, demonstrating the impotence of human power.
* **"and upon her wise [men]":** This final target highlights the intellectual and spiritual pride of Babylon. The "wise men" (Hebrew: _châkâm_) were the astrologers, diviners, and counselors who were the repository of Babylonian knowledge and purported insight into the future. Their inability to foresee or avert the impending doom underscores the limitations of human wisdom and the impotence of pagan spiritual practices when confronted with the omniscient and omnipotent God.

#### Literary Devices
Jeremiah 50:35 employs several potent literary devices to convey its message of impending judgment with striking force. **Metaphor** is central, with "A sword" serving as a powerful and vivid representation of God's destructive judgment, war, and violent overthrow, rather than a literal blade. This metaphor evokes images of decisive, inescapable, and comprehensive doom. **Anaphora** (or repetition) is strikingly evident in the repeated phrase "upon the," which is used four times ("upon the Chaldeans," "upon the inhabitants of Babylon," "and upon her princes," "and upon her wise men"). This deliberate repetition creates a rhythmic, hammering effect, emphasizing the comprehensive and inescapable nature of the judgment that will fall on every segment of Babylonian society—from its ruling elite to its common people, its military leaders to its intellectual class. This relentless repetition underscores the totality of God's wrath and leaves no doubt about the extent of Babylon's impending ruin. The use of **Synecdoche** is also present, as "Chaldeans" and "Babylon" are used to represent the entire empire, its people, and its interconnected systems of power, governance, and wisdom, signifying that the judgment is holistic and all-encompassing.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Jeremiah 50:35 profoundly illustrates God's righteous character as the sovereign judge of all nations. It is a powerful declaration that no empire, however mighty or seemingly invincible, can escape divine accountability for its arrogance, idolatry, and oppression of God's people. The "sword" of judgment, though often executed through human agents, is ultimately directed by the LORD, demonstrating His absolute control over the course of history and the destinies of kingdoms. This verse serves as a stark reminder that human power, military might, and intellectual wisdom are ultimately futile and will collapse when they stand in opposition to the purposes of the Almighty. It offers assurance to the oppressed that God sees their suffering and will bring justice, vindicating His covenant faithfulness by dismantling the very powers that sought to defy Him and bringing about their inevitable downfall.

* [Psalm 9:16](/psalm/9-16 "Psalm 9:16 - God's Righteous Judgment")
* [Isaiah 40:23](/isaiah/40-23 "Isaiah 40:23 - God Brings Princes to Nothing")
* [Revelation 18:8](/revelation/18-8 "Revelation 18:8 - Judgment on Babylon the Great")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Jeremiah 50:35 offers timeless principles for personal and societal reflection, calling us to a deeper understanding of God's sovereignty and the nature of human pride. Firstly, it compels us to recognize the ultimate authority of God over all earthly powers. In a world often captivated by political might, economic prowess, or intellectual achievements, this verse reminds us that true sovereignty belongs to the LORD alone. It challenges us to examine where our trust truly lies—in human systems and wisdom, or in the unchanging character and promises of God. Secondly, it serves as a sobering warning against pride and self-sufficiency, whether manifested in individuals, institutions, or nations. Babylon's downfall, despite its perceived invincibility, illustrates that arrogance inevitably precedes a fall. We are called to cultivate humility, acknowledging our dependence on God and seeking His wisdom above all else. Finally, for those who feel oppressed or marginalized by powerful forces, this prophecy offers profound hope. It assures us that God is actively engaged in history, seeing injustice, and will, in His perfect timing, bring about righteous judgment and ultimate deliverance for His people. This should inspire us to trust in His justice and to patiently endure, knowing that His word will always stand.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what areas of my life or in the society around me do I observe an overreliance on human power, wealth, or wisdom, rather than on God?**
* **How does the certainty of God's judgment on Babylon encourage me when I witness injustice or oppression in the world today?**
* **What does the phrase "saith the LORD" mean for my personal obedience and trust in God's word, especially when it challenges worldly perspectives or personal desires?**

### FAQ
**What is the significance of the "sword" in this prophecy?**

Answer: The "sword" in Jeremiah 50:35 is a powerful and vivid metaphor for God's divine judgment, war, and violent destruction. It signifies a decisive and comprehensive overthrow of Babylon, not necessarily by a literal sword wielded by God Himself, but by the devastating consequences of His decree, often executed through invading armies like the Medes and Persians, as detailed in the broader context of [Jeremiah 51](/jeremiah/51 "Jeremiah 51 - Babylon's Utter Destruction"). It emphasizes the severity, inescapability, and totality of the coming doom upon the empire, indicating that God's justice will be fully executed.

**Why are "princes" and "wise men" specifically mentioned as targets of the judgment?**

Answer: The specific mention of "princes" and "wise men" highlights the comprehensive and targeted nature of God's judgment, striking at every pillar of Babylonian strength and pride. "Princes" represent the political, military, and administrative leadership, signifying that Babylon's governmental structure, martial might, and strategic command would be rendered utterly useless and brought to nothing. "Wise men" refer to the highly esteemed class of astrologers, diviners, and royal counselors who were the repository of Babylonian knowledge and purported insight, often advising the king based on their occult practices. Their inclusion underscores the profound futility of human wisdom, intellect, and pagan spiritual practices in averting divine judgment, demonstrating that no human strategy or perceived insight can stand against the omniscient and omnipotent will of the Almighty (compare [Isaiah 47:12-15](/isaiah/47-12-15 "Isaiah 47:12-15 - Babylon's Astrologers Cannot Save Her")).

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
While Jeremiah 50:35 directly prophesies the historical downfall of ancient Babylon, its theological trajectory finds profound Christ-centered fulfillment in the ultimate victory of God's kingdom over all opposing earthly and spiritual powers. Babylon, in its arrogance, idolatry, and oppression of God's people, serves as a powerful prototype for the "Babylon the Great" described in the book of Revelation, symbolizing all world systems that defy God and persecute His saints (see [Revelation 17](/revelation/17 "Revelation 17 - The Great Prostitute and the Beast") and [Revelation 18](/revelation/18 "Revelation 18 - The Fall of Babylon the Great")). Just as a "sword" of judgment fell upon ancient Babylon's princes and wise men, so too will Christ, the King of kings and Lord of lords, execute decisive and final judgment upon all systems and powers that exalt themselves against God. The "sharp sword" that comes from His mouth in [Revelation 19:15](/revelation/19-15 "Revelation 19:15 - The Sword from Christ's Mouth") symbolizes His powerful and righteous word, by which He strikes down the nations and brings an end to all human wisdom and power that stands in rebellion against God. Ultimately, the judgment on Babylon in Jeremiah foreshadows Christ's triumphant defeat of sin, death, and every spiritual principality and power through His cross and resurrection, establishing His eternal kingdom where righteousness dwells and where no earthly prince or wise man can stand against His divine authority (see [Colossians 2:15](/colossians/2-15 "Colossians 2:15 - Christ's Triumph Over Powers")). The historical fall of Babylon thus points to the ultimate vindication of God's people through the Lamb who was slain, whose victory ensures the final and complete triumph of God's justice and the establishment of a new heavens and new earth, free from all oppression and human pride.

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 47:6

O thou sword of the LORD, how long [will it be] ere thou be quiet? put up thyself into thy scabbard, rest, and be still.

Jeremiah 51:57

And I will make drunk her princes, and her wise [men], her captains, and her rulers, and her mighty men: and they shall sleep a perpetual sleep, and not wake, saith the King, whose name [is] the LORD of hosts.

Daniel 5:7

The king cried aloud to bring in the astrologers, the Chaldeans, and the soothsayers. [And] the king spake, and said to the wise [men] of Babylon, Whosoever shall read this writing, and shew me the interpretation thereof, shall be clothed with scarlet, and [have] a chain of gold about his neck, and shall be the third ruler in the kingdom.

Daniel 5:8

Then came in all the king's wise [men]: but they could not read the writing, nor make known to the king the interpretation thereof.

Daniel 5:30

¶ In that night was Belshazzar the king of the Chaldeans slain.

Hosea 11:6

And the sword shall abide on his cities, and shall consume his branches, and devour [them], because of their own counsels.

Daniel 5:1

¶ Belshazzar the king made a great feast to a thousand of his lords, and drank wine before the thousand.