Jeremiah 50:37

KJV

A sword [is] upon their horses, and upon their chariots, and upon all the mingled people that [are] in the midst of her; and they shall become as women: a sword [is] upon her treasures; and they shall be robbed.

KJV (with Strong's)

A sword {H2719} is upon their horses {H5483}, and upon their chariots {H7393}, and upon all the mingled people {H6153} that are in the midst {H8432} of her; and they shall become as women {H802}: a sword {H2719} is upon her treasures {H214}; and they shall be robbed {H962}.

Complete Jewish Bible

A sword hangs over their horses, also over their chariots, also over the foreigners within her; they will become like women. A sword hangs over her treasures; they will be robbed.

Berean Standard Bible

A sword is against her horses and chariots and against all the foreigners in her midst, and they will become like women. A sword is against her treasuries, and they will be plundered.

American Standard Version

A sword is upon their horses, and upon their chariots, and upon all the mingled people that are in the midst of her; and they shall become as women: a sword is upon her treasures, and they shall be robbed.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Jeremiah 50:37 delivers a potent prophetic declaration of divine judgment against Babylon, the formidable empire that had subjugated Judah and exiled its people. This verse vividly portrays a comprehensive downfall targeting the very pillars of Babylon's strength: its military might, represented by its horses and chariots; its diverse and vast population, including foreign mercenaries; and its immense wealth, accumulated through conquest. The prophecy foretells not merely a defeat, but a profound demoralization, economic devastation, and complete plundering, signaling God's sovereign retribution against an arrogant power and promising eventual liberation for His oppressed people.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Jeremiah chapters 50 and 51 form an extended oracle, a "word concerning Babylon," which stands as a significant counterpoint to the prophecies of Judah's destruction earlier in the book. This lengthy section serves as a message of hope and assurance for the exiled Israelites, promising that their oppressor, Babylon, would face divine retribution, ultimately leading to their own liberation and return to their homeland, as foretold in [Jeremiah 29:10-14](/jeremiah/29-10 "Jeremiah 29:10-14 - Promise of Restoration"). The imagery throughout these chapters emphasizes total destruction and desolation, ensuring that Babylon would never rise again to its former glory, reversing its role as the dominant world power and demonstrating God's ultimate control over the nations.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** Babylon, specifically the Neo-Babylonian Empire under Nebuchadnezzar, was the dominant superpower of the late 7th and early 6th centuries BCE. It had conquered Judah, destroyed Jerusalem, and carried its inhabitants into exile, fulfilling Jeremiah's earlier prophecies of judgment against Judah (e.g., [Jeremiah 25:8-11](/jeremiah/25-8 "Jeremiah 25:8-11 - Seventy Years of Exile")). Culturally, Babylon was renowned for its military prowess, symbolized by its advanced chariots and cavalry, and for its immense wealth, accrued through conquest and extensive trade networks. Its capital city was a marvel of the ancient world, boasting impressive fortifications and architectural wonders. The "mingled people" refer to the diverse array of foreign mercenaries, allied contingents, and various ethnic groups that constituted Babylon's vast imperial population and military, a common feature of ancient empires that drew strength from their varied subjects.
* **Key Themes:** Jeremiah 50:37 contributes significantly to several overarching themes within the book and the broader prophetic tradition. It powerfully underscores the theme of **Divine Judgment on Arrogant Nations**, demonstrating that even the mightiest human empires, when they act in pride and oppress God's people, are ultimately subject to the Lord's supreme justice. The verse also highlights the theme of **Reversal of Fortunes**, where the oppressor becomes the oppressed, and the strong are made weak, illustrating God's power to humble the proud, a concept echoed in [Isaiah 13:1-22](/isaiah/13 "Isaiah 13 - Prophecy Against Babylon"). Furthermore, the detailed description of military and economic collapse reinforces the theme of **Comprehensive Desolation**, emphasizing that Babylon's destruction would be total, affecting every aspect of its power and glory, including its military assets, its diverse population, and its vast treasures, leaving no aspect of its might untouched by divine retribution.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **Sword (Hebrew, _chereb'_):** This term (H2719) denotes a cutting instrument, specifically a sword, but often functions as a **metonymy** for war, violence, and divine judgment. In Jeremiah 50:37, its repetition emphasizes the pervasive and inescapable nature of the impending destruction and the violent means by which Babylon's power will be dismantled. It signifies a divinely orchestrated military invasion and the resulting devastation.
* **Mingled People (Hebrew, _ʻereb'_):** The word (H6153) refers to a "mixed multitude" or "dusk." In this context, it specifically points to the diverse foreign elements within Babylon's population—mercenaries, allies, and various ethnic groups who had settled there or were part of its military. Their inclusion in the judgment signifies that Babylon's strength, derived partly from its cosmopolitan nature and foreign contingents, would also be subject to the same fear and defeat, highlighting the comprehensive scope of God's wrath.
* **Women (Hebrew, _ʼishshâh'_):** This term (H802) is used in a powerful **simile** ("become as women") to describe the utter demoralization and psychological collapse of Babylon's warriors. In ancient Near Eastern culture, this phrase conveyed extreme fear, loss of courage, and effeminacy, signifying a complete inability to resist or fight. It underscores the profound psychological impact of the judgment, rendering their formidable army helpless and terrified.
* **Treasures (Hebrew, _ʼôwtsâr'_):** This word (H214) refers to a depository, storehouse, or treasury. Babylon was renowned for its immense wealth, accumulated through conquest and trade. The "sword upon her treasures" signifies complete economic devastation and the plundering of its riches, stripping the empire of its material glory and financial power.
* **Robbed (Hebrew, _bâzaz'_):** The root (H962) means "to plunder" or "to spoil." This verb explicitly describes the fate of Babylon's treasures, indicating that its wealth would not merely be destroyed but actively seized by the invading forces. It emphasizes the complete economic ruin and the transfer of its accumulated riches to its conquerors.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"A sword [is] upon their horses, and upon their chariots,"**: This clause immediately establishes the nature of the judgment as military and violent. Horses and chariots were the pinnacle of ancient military might, symbols of power and speed. The "sword upon them" signifies that Babylon's primary instruments of conquest and defense would be directly targeted and rendered ineffective, leading to their destruction or capture.
* **"and upon all the mingled people that [are] in the midst of her;"**: This extends the judgment beyond military hardware to the human element. The "mingled people" refer to the diverse foreign populations, including mercenaries and allies, who contributed to Babylon's strength and prosperity. Their inclusion in the prophecy indicates that no segment of Babylon's population, whether native or foreign, would escape the impending terror and destruction.
* **"and they shall become as women:"**: This is a powerful and vivid **simile** depicting the psychological impact of the invasion. It signifies utter terror, demoralization, and the complete loss of courage and fighting spirit among Babylon's warriors and inhabitants. Their once formidable might would dissolve into helpless fear.
* **"a sword [is] upon her treasures;"**: The repetition of "a sword is upon" emphasizes the comprehensive nature of the judgment. Here, the focus shifts from military and human assets to economic wealth. Babylon's vast riches, accumulated through conquest and trade, would also be subjected to the destructive force of the invasion.
* **"and they shall be robbed."**: This final clause explicitly states the consequence for Babylon's treasures. They would not merely be destroyed but plundered, seized by the conquering armies. This signifies complete economic devastation and the stripping away of Babylon's material glory and financial power.

#### Literary Devices
Jeremiah 50:37 employs several potent **Literary Devices** to convey the intensity and comprehensiveness of Babylon's impending judgment. The most prominent is **Repetition**, specifically the phrase "A sword [is] upon," which appears twice. This repetition serves to emphasize the pervasive and inescapable nature of the divine judgment, highlighting that no aspect of Babylon's power—military, demographic, or economic—will be spared. **Metonymy** is evident in the use of "sword" to represent not just a physical weapon, but the entire destructive force of war and divine retribution. The phrase "they shall become as women" is a stark **Simile**, vividly portraying the profound psychological collapse and utter demoralization of Babylon's formidable warriors, reducing them to a state of helpless terror. This imagery also carries an element of **Hyperbole**, underscoring the extreme nature of the fear and weakness that will overcome them, far beyond a typical military defeat. Finally, the verse's structure, moving from military assets to population to wealth, creates a sense of **Climax**, building to a comprehensive picture of total ruin.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Jeremiah 50:37 profoundly illustrates God's absolute sovereignty over all nations and empires. It serves as a powerful testament to divine justice, demonstrating that even the mightiest human powers, when they act in pride, oppression, and defiance of God's will, are ultimately subject to His righteous judgment. For the exiled Israelites, this prophecy offered immense comfort and hope, assuring them that their suffering under Babylon was temporary and that God would indeed bring about their restoration and vindication. It underscores the principle that true security and lasting power do not reside in military might or material possessions, but in alignment with God's purposes. This passage reminds believers that God is faithful to His covenant promises, remembering His people even in their darkest hours, and will ultimately bring justice to those who oppress them, ensuring that no unrighteousness goes unpunished.

* [Isaiah 13:1-22](/isaiah/13 "Isaiah 13 - Prophecy Against Babylon"): A parallel prophecy detailing the comprehensive judgment and desolation of Babylon, emphasizing its fall as a divine act.
* [Psalm 75:6-7](/psalms/75-6 "Psalm 75:6-7 - God Exalts and Brings Low"): Affirms God's ultimate authority in exalting and bringing down nations, aligning with the reversal of fortunes seen in Babylon's judgment.
* [Nahum 2:9-10](/nahum/2-9 "Nahum 2:9-10 - Plunder of Nineveh"): Describes the plundering and desolation of Nineveh, the capital of Assyria, echoing the economic ruin and robbery prophesied for Babylon.

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Jeremiah 50:37 offers profound insights for contemporary believers, serving as a timeless reminder of God's unwavering justice and His ultimate control over human history. In a world often dominated by powerful nations and economic systems, this verse calls us to critically examine where we place our trust and derive our security. It challenges us to recognize that earthly might, wealth, and military prowess are fleeting and ultimately subject to the divine will. For those who feel oppressed or marginalized by powerful forces, this prophecy offers immense hope, assuring them that God sees their suffering and will bring about justice in His perfect timing. It encourages us to identify with the suffering of God's people throughout history and to trust that His promises of deliverance and restoration will always prevail, even against seemingly insurmountable odds. Ultimately, it calls us to live with an eternal perspective, investing in God's kingdom rather than fleeting earthly kingdoms.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what ways might we, individually or corporately, place our trust in "horses and chariots" (i.e., worldly power, wealth, or influence) rather than in God's sovereignty?**
* **How does the comprehensive nature of Babylon's judgment (military, demographic, economic) challenge our understanding of divine justice?**
* **What comfort or challenge does this prophecy offer to those who feel oppressed or marginalized by powerful systems or individuals today?**
* **How can we cultivate a deeper trust in God's ultimate plan for justice and restoration, even when circumstances seem bleak?**

### FAQ

**Why is Babylon singled out for such severe judgment in Jeremiah's prophecy?**

Answer: Babylon was singled out for severe judgment primarily because of its role as the instrument of God's judgment against Judah, which it then carried out with excessive cruelty and pride, lifting itself up against the Lord and His people. While God used Babylon to punish Judah for its idolatry and disobedience, Babylon itself did not acknowledge God's sovereignty but rather boasted in its own strength and gods. Furthermore, Babylon oppressed God's covenant people, holding them in exile and plundering the temple in Jerusalem ([Jeremiah 52:12-23](/jeremiah/52-12 "Jeremiah 52:12-23 - Destruction of Jerusalem and Temple Plunder")). This prophecy demonstrates God's unwavering commitment to His covenant with Israel and His promise to bring justice to those who harm His chosen people, as seen throughout the prophetic books, such as in [Isaiah 14:3-23](/isaiah/14-3 "Isaiah 14:3-23 - Taunt Against Babylon").

**What does the phrase "they shall become as women" signify in this context?**

Answer: The phrase "they shall become as women" is a powerful and vivid idiom in ancient Near Eastern culture, signifying extreme fear, utter demoralization, and a complete loss of courage and strength. It does not imply a literal gender transformation but rather a profound psychological and emotional collapse that renders formidable warriors helpless and incapable of resistance. In a patriarchal society where masculine strength and courage were highly valued, this simile was a particularly humiliating and devastating portrayal of defeat, indicating that Babylon's once-feared military would be reduced to a state of panicked helplessness in the face of their invaders, as also depicted in [Isaiah 19:16](/isaiah/19-16 "Isaiah 19:16 - Egyptians Become Like Women").

**How does this prophecy relate to the future of God's people?**

Answer: This prophecy offers immense hope and assurance to God's exiled people, the Israelites. It promises that their period of suffering under Babylonian oppression is temporary and that God will ultimately intervene to bring justice upon their oppressor and secure their liberation and restoration to their homeland. It reinforces God's faithfulness to His covenant promises, even when His people are in exile. For believers today, it underscores the truth that God is sovereign over all nations and that He will ultimately bring justice to all forms of oppression and evil, ensuring the ultimate triumph of His kingdom and the deliverance of His people, a theme that finds its ultimate fulfillment in the eschatological victory of Christ.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Jeremiah 50:37, while a specific prophecy against ancient Babylon, finds profound Christ-centered fulfillment in the broader biblical narrative of God's judgment against all forms of spiritual oppression and His ultimate triumph through Jesus Christ. The "sword" of judgment against Babylon's military, people, and treasures foreshadows the definitive victory of Christ over all hostile powers and systems that oppose God and oppress His people. In the New Testament, particularly in the book of Revelation, "Babylon" becomes a symbolic representation of all worldly systems, spiritual forces, and human institutions that stand in rebellion against God and persecute His church. Just as ancient Babylon's military might was broken and its treasures plundered, so too does Christ, the true King, utterly defeat the spiritual forces of darkness and the "Babylon" of this world. His crucifixion and resurrection represent the ultimate triumph over sin, death, and the devil ([Colossians 2:15](/colossians/2-15 "Colossians 2:15 - Christ's Triumph Over Powers")), disarming the principalities and powers. The fall of historical Babylon, leading to the liberation of God's people, points forward to the glorious liberation that Christ provides from the bondage of sin and the dominion of darkness, leading His people into an eternal, unshakable kingdom ([Hebrews 12:28](/hebrews/12-28 "Hebrews 12:28 - An Unshakable Kingdom")). The ultimate "robbing" of Babylon's treasures finds its spiritual parallel in Christ's reclaiming what was lost to sin, establishing His reign where all authority and power belong to Him, and ensuring that His people are eternally secure in His victory ([John 16:33](/john/16-33 "John 16:33 - Christ's Victory Over the World")). The final judgment of spiritual Babylon in [Revelation 18:2-8](/revelation/18-2 "Revelation 18:2-8 - The Fall of Babylon") echoes Jeremiah's prophecy, confirming that all earthly pride, wealth, and power that stand against God will ultimately be brought to nothing by the decisive and sovereign action of the Lamb of God.

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 51:30

The mighty men of Babylon have forborn to fight, they have remained in [their] holds: their might hath failed; they became as women: they have burned her dwellingplaces; her bars are broken.

Nahum 3:13

Behold, thy people in the midst of thee [are] women: the gates of thy land shall be set wide open unto thine enemies: the fire shall devour thy bars.

Jeremiah 25:20

And all the mingled people, and all the kings of the land of Uz, and all the kings of the land of the Philistines, and Ashkelon, and Azzah, and Ekron, and the remnant of Ashdod,

Jeremiah 51:21

And with thee will I break in pieces the horse and his rider; and with thee will I break in pieces the chariot and his rider;

Jeremiah 48:41

Kerioth is taken, and the strong holds are surprised, and the mighty men's hearts in Moab at that day shall be as the heart of a woman in her pangs.

Isaiah 19:16

In that day shall Egypt be like unto women: and it shall be afraid and fear because of the shaking of the hand of the LORD of hosts, which he shaketh over it.

Ezekiel 30:5

Ethiopia, and Libya, and Lydia, and all the mingled people, and Chub, and the men of the land that is in league, shall fall with them by the sword.