Jeremiah 50:39

KJV

Therefore the wild beasts of the desert with the wild beasts of the islands shall dwell [there], and the owls shall dwell therein: and it shall be no more inhabited for ever; neither shall it be dwelt in from generation to generation.

KJV (with Strong's)

Therefore the wild beasts of the desert {H6728} with the wild beasts of the islands {H338} shall dwell {H3427} there, and the owls {H1323}{H3284} shall dwell {H3427} therein: and it shall be no more inhabited {H3427} for ever {H5331}; neither shall it be dwelt {H7931} in from generation {H1755} to generation {H1755}.

Complete Jewish Bible

"Therefore wildcats and jackals will live there, and ostriches will settle there. It will never again be peopled, it will be uninhabited age after age;

Berean Standard Bible

So the desert creatures and hyenas will live there and ostriches will dwell there. It will never again be inhabited or lived in from generation to generation.

American Standard Version

Therefore the wild beasts of the desert with the wolves shall dwell there, and the ostriches shall dwell therein: and it shall be no more inhabited for ever; neither shall it be dwelt in from generation to generation.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Jeremiah 50:39 delivers a powerful and definitive judgment against Babylon, prophesying its complete and irreversible desolation. This verse declares that the once-mighty empire, renowned for its splendor and power, will be utterly abandoned by humanity, becoming an uninhabitable wasteland fit only for wild animals. It underscores the finality of divine retribution, emphasizing that Babylon's ruin will be absolute and endure perpetually, a stark and permanent reversal of its former glory and influence.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Jeremiah 50:39 is an integral part of a comprehensive prophetic oracle against Babylon, spanning chapters 50 and 51 of Jeremiah. This extensive denunciation marks a pivotal shift in the prophet's focus. Prior to these chapters, Jeremiah primarily delivered messages of impending judgment and exile for Judah and Jerusalem, which were ultimately fulfilled by Babylon. Now, the divine spotlight turns to the oppressor itself, revealing God's unwavering commitment to justice for His people and His sovereignty over all nations. This section serves as a theological counterpoint, demonstrating that even the most formidable empires, used as instruments of God's wrath, are not exempt from divine accountability for their pride, idolatry, and cruelty. The vivid imagery of desolation in this verse is woven into a broader tapestry of prophecies detailing Babylon's downfall, including the destruction of its idols, the scattering of its inhabitants, and its ultimate transformation into a barren wilderness, a stark contrast to its former status as the "hammer of the whole earth" ([Jeremiah 50:23](/jeremiah/50-23 "Jeremiah 50:23 - Babylon, the Hammer of the Whole Earth")).
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** At the time of Jeremiah's prophecy (late 7th to early 6th century BC), the Neo-Babylonian Empire was the preeminent superpower of the ancient Near East. Its capital, Babylon, was a marvel of the ancient world, boasting immense defensive walls, the legendary Hanging Gardens, and a reputation for unparalleled wealth, culture, and military might. The city's apparent invincibility would have made a prophecy of its utter and permanent desolation seem astonishing, even unbelievable, to contemporary audiences. Culturally, the presence of wild animals in former urban areas was a potent and widely understood biblical metaphor for complete ruin, abandonment, and a state of being cursed. Such imagery signified that a place had become unfit for human habitation, reverting to a primordial, untamed state. The specific mention of "wild beasts of the desert" and "owls" evokes an eerie silence and a profound reversal of order, where human civilization gives way to the untamed wilderness, directly contrasting Babylon's reputation as a bustling, vibrant metropolis.
* **Key Themes:** This verse powerfully contributes to several overarching themes prominent within the book of Jeremiah and the broader prophetic tradition. Firstly, it underscores **Divine Sovereignty and Justice**, demonstrating unequivocally that even the mightiest human empires are ultimately subject to God's supreme authority and righteous judgment. Babylon, which boasted of its strength and oppressed numerous nations, including Judah, would not escape divine retribution for its arrogance and cruelty, as highlighted in [Jeremiah 50:29](/jeremiah/50-29 "Jeremiah 50:29 - Babylon's Punishment for Pride"). Secondly, the verse emphasizes **Utter and Permanent Desolation**. The vivid imagery of wild animals inhabiting former human dwellings signifies a complete and irreversible abandonment, transforming a vibrant city into a desolate wasteland. This theme of irreversible ruin is a recurring motif in prophecies against proud nations, found also in passages like [Isaiah 13:20-22](/isaiah/13-20-22 "Isaiah 13:20-22 - Prophecy of Babylon's Desolation"). Finally, it highlights the **Reversal of Fortunes**, where the oppressor becomes the oppressed, and the instrument of God's judgment ultimately faces His wrath. This serves as a profound source of hope and vindication for God's exiled people, assuring them that their suffering under Babylon was temporary, while Babylon's downfall would be eternal, a stark contrast to God's enduring covenant with Israel (compare with [Jeremiah 29:10-14](/jeremiah/29-10-14 "Jeremiah 29:10-14 - God's Plans for Israel's Future")).

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **dwell (Hebrew, _yâshab'_):** H3427, a primitive root meaning "to sit down," and by implication, "to dwell" or "to remain." It can also causatively mean "to settle" or "to marry." In Jeremiah 50:39, the repeated use of this root (in "shall dwell," "inhabited," "dwelt in") emphasizes a profound and ironic reversal. What was once the dwelling place of humans, a bustling city, will become the permanent dwelling place of wild animals. This shift from human habitation to desolate animal habitation underscores the depth and finality of Babylon's ruin, signifying a complete and permanent abandonment by humanity.
* **wild beasts of the desert (Hebrew, _tsîyîy'_):** H6728, derived from a root meaning "dryness" or "desert." This term refers to a "desert-dweller," specifically a nomad or wild beast. These are typically associated with desolate, ruined places, often howling or predatory animals like jackals or hyenas. Their presence in a formerly grand city signifies not merely abandonment but a reversion to a primordial, untamed wilderness. It transforms a place of human civilization into a realm of danger, silence, and sorrow, far removed from any human settlement or cultivation.
* **for ever (Hebrew, _netsach'_):** H5331, properly a "goal" or "bright object at a distance travelled towards," figuratively conveying "splendor" or "truthfulness." However, it is most commonly used adverbially to mean "continually" or "to the most distant point of view," implying permanence, perpetuity, or eternity. Its use here, combined with the subsequent phrase "from generation to generation," profoundly stresses the absolute and irreversible nature of Babylon's destruction. This is not a temporary setback or a period of abandonment followed by rebuilding, but a final and eternal state of ruin, a perpetual desolation.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Therefore the wild beasts of the desert with the wild beasts of the islands shall dwell [there],"**: This clause introduces the immediate and striking consequence of Babylon's judgment. The once-grand city, a center of human power and activity, will be so utterly abandoned by its human inhabitants that it will become the exclusive habitat for creatures of desolation. "Wild beasts of the desert" (_tsîyîy_) refers to howling desert animals, while "wild beasts of the islands" (_ʼîy_) denotes solitary, mournful creatures of desolate places, often identified as jackals or hyenas. Their dwelling signifies a complete reclamation of the land by the wild, a profound and visual symbol of human absence and utter ruin.
* **"and the owls shall dwell therein:"**: This continues and intensifies the imagery of desolation, adding "owls" (_bath yaʻănâh_, literally "daughter of the ostrich" or "desert owl") to the new, eerie inhabitants of the ruined city. Owls are nocturnal birds frequently associated with desolate ruins, their calls contributing to a mournful, haunting atmosphere. Their presence further emphasizes the silence, abandonment, and death of what was once a bustling metropolis, now reduced to a haunt for creatures of the night and the untamed wilderness.
* **"and it shall be no more inhabited for ever;"**: This phrase explicitly declares the absolute permanence of Babylon's desolation. The Hebrew term for "for ever" (_netsach_) signifies an enduring, perpetual, and unending state. This is not merely a temporary destruction or a period of abandonment followed by eventual rebuilding, but a final and irreversible cessation of human habitation. It underscores the severity, totality, and finality of God's judgment upon the city.
* **"neither shall it be dwelt in from generation to generation."**: This final clause powerfully reiterates and intensifies the concept of permanent desolation. The phrase "from generation to generation" (_dôwr lᵉdôwr_) is a common Hebrew idiom emphasizing an unending duration, stretching across all future time without interruption. It reinforces that no future generation will ever succeed in re-inhabiting Babylon, cementing the absolute, unending, and eternal nature of its ruin, a fate distinct from many other ancient cities that rose and fell but were eventually rebuilt.

#### Literary Devices
Jeremiah 50:39 is profoundly rich in **Imagery**, painting a vivid and chilling picture of desolation. The transformation of a mighty, vibrant city into a dwelling place exclusively for "wild beasts of the desert," "wild beasts of the islands," and "owls" evokes a powerful sense of abandonment, decay, and the ultimate triumph of the untamed wilderness over human civilization. This imagery functions as a potent form of **Inversion**, as the expected human inhabitants are dramatically replaced by creatures typically associated with ruin, isolation, and the wild. The verse also employs **Repetition** and **Hyperbole** to underscore the absolute finality of the judgment. The repeated use of the root "dwell" (Hebrew _yâshab_), in its various forms, highlights the ironic and tragic shift in inhabitants. Furthermore, the dual phrases "for ever" and "from generation to generation" constitute a powerful form of **Parallelism** that functions as hyperbole, emphasizing the absolute, unending, and irreversible nature of Babylon's ruin. This hyperbolic language serves to impress upon the reader the severity and permanence of God's divine decree against a nation that once seemed invincible.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Jeremiah 50:39 stands as a profound testament to God's absolute sovereignty over human empires and His unwavering commitment to justice. The prophecy of Babylon's complete and eternal desolation serves as a powerful reminder that no earthly power, however mighty, seemingly impregnable, or technologically advanced, can ultimately thwart the divine will or escape accountability for its pride, idolatry, and oppression. This passage assures God's people, and indeed all who are oppressed, that divine retribution will inevitably come upon those who defy God and inflict suffering. It highlights a recurring biblical theme: the rise and fall of nations are ultimately orchestrated by God, who uses them for His purposes but also judges them for their wickedness, ensuring that justice prevails in His perfect timing.

* [Isaiah 13:20-22](/isaiah/13-20-22 "Prophecy of Babylon's Desolation and Wild Inhabitants")
* [Revelation 18:2](/revelation/18-2 "The Fall of Babylon the Great, a Dwelling for Demons")
* [Zephaniah 2:13-15](/zephaniah/2-13-15 "Prophecy Against Nineveh and Its Desolation")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Jeremiah 50:39 offers enduring lessons that resonate deeply with believers today, providing both a stern warning and a profound source of hope. First, it powerfully affirms God's unwavering justice. In a world where evil often seems to triumph, and oppressors appear to escape consequence, this prophecy assures us that God sees, God remembers, and God will act. No empire, no oppressive system, and no individual can ultimately defy His righteous judgment. This truth should instill both a healthy reverence for God's power and a profound comfort for those who suffer injustice, knowing that ultimate vindication belongs to Him. Second, the fate of Babylon serves as a stark warning against pride, idolatry, and the abuse of power. When nations or individuals exalt themselves against God, rely solely on their own strength, and oppress the vulnerable, they inevitably invite divine reckoning. This calls us to humility, to actively seek justice, and to reject the seductive allure of worldly power that operates outside of God's righteous will. Finally, for those who feel overwhelmed by the seemingly insurmountable challenges or oppressive structures of this world, this verse offers a powerful reminder of God's ultimate victory. The "Babylons" of our age, whatever form they take—be it political corruption, economic injustice, or cultural godlessness—are temporary and ultimately subject to the eternal reign of God.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does the permanence of Babylon's destruction in this verse challenge or affirm your understanding of God's justice and His dealings with nations?**
* **In what ways might we, as individuals or communities, be tempted to embody the pride, self-reliance, or oppressive tendencies that characterized ancient Babylon?**
* **How can the assurance of God's ultimate judgment against injustice provide comfort and hope in times of oppression, suffering, or apparent moral chaos in the world?**
* **What "wild beasts" or symbols of desolation might represent the spiritual or moral consequences of decay in our own lives, churches, or societies today?**

### FAQ
**Has ancient Babylon truly remained desolate as prophesied?**

Answer: Yes, the historical record largely confirms the fulfillment of this prophecy. While there have been sporadic attempts at reconstruction and some limited human presence over millennia, the ancient city of Babylon has never been re-inhabited as a major, vibrant metropolis since its decline following its fall to the Persians in 539 BC. After this pivotal event, it gradually faded into obscurity, suffering further destruction and neglect under various subsequent empires. Its extensive ruins, located in modern-day Iraq, remain largely desolate today, inhabited primarily by local wildlife and serving as a significant archaeological site. This historical reality stands as a remarkable testament to the accuracy of Jeremiah's prophecy, particularly its emphasis on Babylon's permanent desolation "for ever" and "from generation to generation," a fate distinct from many other ancient cities that were eventually rebuilt and re-inhabited.

**What is the significance of the specific animals mentioned (wild beasts of the desert, wild beasts of the islands, owls)?**

Answer: The mention of "wild beasts of the desert" (Hebrew _tsîyîy_) and "wild beasts of the islands" (Hebrew _ʼîy_) refers to howling, solitary creatures typically associated with desolate, ruined places, such as jackals, hyenas, or other predatory animals. "Owls" (Hebrew _bath yaʻănâh_) are birds known for inhabiting ruins and making mournful, eerie sounds. Their significance in this prophecy is multifaceted: they powerfully symbolize the complete and irreversible abandonment of the city by humans, as these are creatures of the wilderness and desolation, not urban centers. Their presence indicates that the city has not merely been destroyed but has reverted to an untamed, cursed, and uninhabitable state. Furthermore, their mournful cries contribute to the eerie, desolate atmosphere, emphasizing the profound silence and death of what was once a bustling, proud capital. This imagery is a potent and visceral way to convey utter and irreversible ruin, where the land is definitively reclaimed by the wild.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Jeremiah 50:39, while a specific historical prophecy of judgment against ancient Babylon, finds its ultimate and spiritual fulfillment in the person and redemptive work of Jesus Christ. The fall of Babylon, a potent symbol of human pride, idolatry, and oppressive worldly power, foreshadows the definitive triumph of God's eternal kingdom over all opposing forces. Just as Babylon's seemingly invincible empire was brought to utter and permanent desolation, so too will all systems, powers, and spiritual authorities that stand in rebellion against God and His people ultimately face Christ's righteous judgment. The New Testament, particularly the book of Revelation, picks up this powerful imagery, portraying "Babylon the Great" not as a literal city but as a symbolic representation of the entire world system in rebellion against God, which is ultimately and permanently overthrown by the Lamb of God (as vividly depicted in [Revelation 18:2-8](/revelation/18-2-8 "Revelation 18:2-8 - The Fall of Babylon the Great")). Christ, through His atoning death on the cross and His victorious resurrection, has already disarmed the principalities and powers of darkness (as declared in [Colossians 2:15](/colossians/2-15 "Colossians 2:15 - Christ's Triumph Over Spiritual Powers")) and established a kingdom that "shall never be destroyed" ([Daniel 2:44](/daniel/2-44 "Daniel 2:44 - The Eternal Kingdom of God")). The historical desolation of earthly Babylon points forward to the complete and eternal desolation of all that opposes Christ's reign, culminating in the establishment of a new heavens and new earth where righteousness dwells and there is no more curse, sorrow, or death (as promised in [Revelation 21:1-4](/revelation/21-1-4 "Revelation 21:1-4 - The New Heaven and New Earth")). Thus, Jeremiah's prophecy assures believers that every "Babylon" will fall, and Christ's eternal kingdom will stand forever, a testament to God's ultimate justice and sovereign rule.

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

Revelation 18:2

And he cried mightily with a strong voice, saying, Babylon the great is fallen, is fallen, and is become the habitation of devils, and the hold of every foul spirit, and a cage of every unclean and hateful bird.

Isaiah 13:20

It shall never be inhabited, neither shall it be dwelt in from generation to generation: neither shall the Arabian pitch tent there; neither shall the shepherds make their fold there.

Isaiah 13:22

And the wild beasts of the islands shall cry in their desolate houses, and dragons in [their] pleasant palaces: and her time [is] near to come, and her days shall not be prolonged.

Jeremiah 25:12

And it shall come to pass, when seventy years are accomplished, [that] I will punish the king of Babylon, and that nation, saith the LORD, for their iniquity, and the land of the Chaldeans, and will make it perpetual desolations.

Revelation 18:21

And a mighty angel took up a stone like a great millstone, and cast [it] into the sea, saying, Thus with violence shall that great city Babylon be thrown down, and shall be found no more at all.

Revelation 18:24

And in her was found the blood of prophets, and of saints, and of all that were slain upon the earth.

Isaiah 14:23

I will also make it a possession for the bittern, and pools of water: and I will sweep it with the besom of destruction, saith the LORD of hosts.