Jeremiah 50:9

KJV

¶ For, lo, I will raise and cause to come up against Babylon an assembly of great nations from the north country: and they shall set themselves in array against her; from thence she shall be taken: their arrows [shall be] as of a mighty expert man; none shall return in vain.

KJV (with Strong's)

For, lo, I will raise {H5782} and cause to come up {H5927} against Babylon {H894} an assembly {H6951} of great {H1419} nations {H1471} from the north {H6828} country {H776}: and they shall set themselves in array {H6186} against her; from thence she shall be taken {H3920}: their arrows {H2671} shall be as of a mighty {H1368} expert man {H7919}{H7921}; none shall return {H7725} in vain {H7387}.

Complete Jewish Bible

for I will stir up and bring against Bavel an alliance of great nations from the country to the north. They will array themselves against her; from there she will be captured. Their arrows are like those of a death-dealing warrior; none will return in vain.

Berean Standard Bible

For behold, I stir up and bring against Babylon an assembly of great nations from the land of the north. They will line up against her; from the north she will be captured. Their arrows will be like skilled warriors who do not return empty-handed.

American Standard Version

For, lo, I will stir up and cause to come up against Babylon a company of great nations from the north country; and they shall set themselves in array against her; from thence she shall be taken: their arrows shall be as of an expert mighty man; none shall return in vain.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Jeremiah 50:9 is a potent prophetic declaration foretelling the divinely orchestrated downfall of Babylon, the dominant and oppressive empire of Jeremiah's era. This verse, embedded within a larger oracle of judgment, reveals that God Himself will mobilize a formidable coalition of "great nations" from the north to besiege and conquer Babylon, ensuring their military campaign is executed with such precision and effectiveness that every strike achieves its intended purpose, leaving no effort wasted and guaranteeing the city's inevitable capture.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Jeremiah 50:9 is situated within a lengthy and detailed oracle against Babylon, spanning chapters 50 and 51 of the Book of Jeremiah. These chapters serve as a powerful counterpoint to the preceding prophecies of judgment against Judah and Jerusalem, offering a message of hope and vindication to the exiled Israelites. While Judah experienced the bitter consequences of its sin through Babylonian conquest, these chapters assure God's people that their oppressor will not escape divine reckoning. This specific verse initiates a vivid description of the invading forces and their overwhelming success, setting the stage for Babylon's complete desolation as described in subsequent verses, such as the call for total destruction in [Jeremiah 50:26](/jeremiah/50-26 "Jeremiah 50:26 - Call for Total Destruction"). The detailed military imagery here emphasizes the certainty and thoroughness of the impending divine judgment.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** At the time of Jeremiah's prophecy (late 7th to early 6th century BCE), Babylon, under the Neo-Babylonian Empire, was the preeminent global power, having conquered Assyria and, notably, Judah, leading to the destruction of Jerusalem and the Babylonian exile of its inhabitants. The "north country" in Jeremiah's prophecies consistently refers to the direction from which invaders, often instruments of God's judgment, would emerge. Historically, this prophecy was fulfilled by the Medo-Persian Empire, which, under Cyrus the Great, conquered Babylon in 539 BCE. The Medes and Persians, indeed, came from the north and east, forming a powerful coalition that meticulously planned and executed the siege of Babylon. The reference to "arrows as of a mighty expert man" reflects the advanced military tactics and weaponry of the ancient Near East, where archery was a crucial component of warfare, highlighting the formidable skill and precision of the approaching armies.
* **Key Themes:** This verse powerfully contributes to several overarching themes within Jeremiah and the broader prophetic tradition. Firstly, it underscores **Divine Sovereignty**, asserting God's absolute control over the rise and fall of nations. Babylon's seemingly unassailable power is shown to be entirely subject to God's will, as He declares, "I will raise and cause to come up." Secondly, it highlights the theme of **Inevitable Judgment** against pride and oppression. Babylon, which served as God's instrument against Judah, would itself face a just and certain recompense for its arrogance and cruelty, a truth that echoes throughout prophetic warnings against empires that exalt themselves against God, as seen in [Isaiah 13](/isaiah/13 "Isaiah 13 - God's Oracle Against Babylon"). Thirdly, the prophecy offers **Hope and Vindication** for God's exiled people. The assurance that their oppressor would be overthrown provided immense comfort and a promise of future restoration, reinforcing God's covenant faithfulness even amidst national catastrophe, a promise of return also found in [Jeremiah 29:10](/jeremiah/29-10 "Jeremiah 29:10 - God's Promise of Return from Exile").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **raise (Hebrew, _ʻûwr'_):** H5782. This primitive root means "to wake (literally or figuratively)," "to lift up (self)," or "to stir up (self)." In this context, it signifies God's active, intentional, and sovereign stirring up or awakening of nations. It's not a passive observation but a divine instigation, emphasizing that the impending invasion is directly purposed and initiated by God, not merely a natural geopolitical event.
* **nations (Hebrew, _gôwy'_):** H1471. This term, often translated as "nation" or "people," specifically refers to a "foreign nation" or "Gentile." The use of the plural "great nations" emphasizes the formidable and diverse coalition that God will assemble against Babylon, underscoring the overwhelming nature of the force and the global scope of God's judgment, extending beyond a single adversary.
* **in vain (Hebrew, _rêyqâm'_):** H7387. Derived from a root meaning "empty," this adverb means "emptily," "ineffectually," or "without cause." When paired with "none shall return," it powerfully conveys the absolute certainty and effectiveness of the attack. Every arrow shot, every military maneuver, will achieve its intended destructive purpose; nothing will be wasted, nothing will fail to hit its mark, ensuring Babylon's complete and decisive defeat.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"For, lo, I will raise and cause to come up against Babylon an assembly of great nations from the north country:":** This opening clause immediately establishes divine agency. God (the "I") is the primary actor, not merely predicting but actively orchestrating the events. He will "raise" (stir up) and "cause to come up" (bring forth) a formidable "assembly" (a deliberate, organized gathering) of "great nations" (a powerful, multi-ethnic coalition, historically the Medes and Persians) against Babylon. The specific geographical indicator "from the north country" points to the customary direction of invaders into Mesopotamia, signaling the precise origin of this divinely appointed force.
* **"and they shall set themselves in array against her;":** This phrase describes the military precision and strategic organization of the attacking forces. "Setting themselves in array" (Hebrew, `ʻârak` H6186) implies a disciplined formation for battle, a methodical preparation for siege and assault. This is not a chaotic mob but a well-ordered army, indicating the methodical and overwhelming nature of the impending conquest.
* **"from thence she shall be taken:":** This concise statement declares the inevitable outcome: Babylon's capture. The Hebrew word for "taken" (Hebrew, `lâkad` H3920) means "to catch (in a net, trap or pit)" or "to capture or occupy." It signifies a complete and decisive seizure, emphasizing that the city, despite its fortifications, will be ensnared and overcome.
* **"their arrows [shall be] as of a mighty expert man;":** This vivid military simile highlights the skill, power, and accuracy of the invading archers. The "mighty expert man" (Hebrew, `gibbôwr` H1368, `sâkal` H7919) refers to a highly skilled, powerful warrior, one whose shots are precise and devastating. This imagery conveys the overwhelming and unstoppable nature of the attack, suggesting that the invaders' military prowess will be exceptional and devastatingly effective.
* **"none shall return in vain.":** This final, emphatic declaration underscores the absolute certainty and completeness of the victory. Every arrow loosed, every effort expended by the invading armies, will achieve its intended destructive purpose. There will be no wasted effort, no failed attempts; the campaign will be utterly successful, leading to Babylon's total subjugation.

#### Literary Devices
Jeremiah 50:9 employs several potent literary devices to convey its message of certain judgment. **Divine Fiat** is paramount, as God explicitly states, "I will raise and cause to come up," asserting His direct, active, and sovereign control over historical events and the destinies of nations. This declaration functions as a performative utterance, where the speaking of the word ensures its fulfillment. **Military Imagery** is central, with phrases like "set themselves in array," "arrows," and "mighty expert man" creating a vivid mental picture of a highly organized, powerful, and effective military campaign. This imagery not only describes the means of judgment but also emphasizes its overwhelming nature. The phrase "none shall return in vain" functions as **Hyperbole** or **Emphatic Language**, underscoring the absolute certainty and thoroughness of the destruction. While literally every single arrow might not hit a target, the expression conveys that the collective effort will be entirely successful, leaving no aspect of the mission unfulfilled. This contributes to the overall sense of **Prophetic Certainty**, a hallmark of Jeremiah's message, assuring both the oppressors of their doom and the oppressed of God's unwavering justice.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Jeremiah 50:9 is a profound declaration of God's sovereign control over human history and His unwavering commitment to justice. It reveals that even the most formidable empires are mere instruments or targets in His divine plan, subject to His will and accountable for their actions. The prophecy assures that no power, however mighty, can ultimately stand against the Lord of Hosts. This serves as a powerful reminder that God sees the suffering of His people and will bring recompense upon their oppressors, demonstrating His faithfulness to His covenant and His ultimate vindication of the righteous. The detailed description of Babylon's fall underscores the certainty of divine judgment for national pride and cruelty, providing a timeless lesson on the transient nature of earthly power and the enduring nature of God's righteousness.

* [Isaiah 13](/isaiah/13 "Isaiah 13 - The Oracle Concerning Babylon")
* [Revelation 18](/revelation/18 "Revelation 18 - The Fall of Babylon the Great")
* [Daniel 5:25](/daniel/5-25 "Daniel 5:25-31 - The Writing on the Wall and Babylon's Fall")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Jeremiah 50:9 offers profound truths that resonate deeply with believers today. In a world often characterized by political instability, global conflicts, and the rise and fall of powerful entities, this verse firmly reminds us that God remains enthroned above all. No nation, no empire, no human system, however dominant or oppressive, operates outside of His sovereign purview. This truth provides immense comfort and hope, assuring us that even when circumstances seem chaotic or unjust, God is actively working His purposes, bringing about His justice in His time. It encourages us to trust in His ultimate control, to find our security not in earthly powers, but in the unchanging character of God, who hears the cries of the oppressed and will ultimately bring down those who exalt themselves. Furthermore, it challenges us to align our lives and our societies with God's righteous standards, knowing that all actions, both individual and corporate, will ultimately be brought into account before Him.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does the declaration "I will raise and cause to come up" impact your understanding of God's sovereignty over current global events and political landscapes?**
* **In what ways does the certainty of Babylon's judgment provide comfort or challenge to your own understanding of justice in the world today?**
* **What "empires" or oppressive systems in our modern context might this prophecy encourage us to pray against, trusting in God's ultimate intervention?**

### FAQ
**Was Babylon's fall a natural historical event, or was it truly orchestrated by God?**

Answer: While the conquest of Babylon by the Medo-Persian Empire under Cyrus the Great in 539 BCE was a verifiable historical event, Jeremiah 50:9, along with other prophecies (e.g., [Isaiah 44:28](/isaiah/44-28 "Isaiah 44:28 - Cyrus as God's Shepherd")), strongly asserts that it was not merely a natural geopolitical shift but a divinely orchestrated act. The language "I will raise and cause to come up" explicitly states God's active involvement, indicating that He raised up the Medes and Persians as His instruments of judgment against Babylon. This perspective highlights God's sovereignty over history, demonstrating that human empires rise and fall according to His ultimate plan and purpose.

**What is the significance of the "north country" in Jeremiah's prophecies?**

Answer: In Jeremiah's prophecies, the "north country" consistently serves as a geographical marker for the source of impending judgment or invasion. While it often referred to Babylon itself as the initial instrument of God's wrath against Judah (e.g., [Jeremiah 1:14](/jeremiah/1-14 "Jeremiah 1:14 - The Threat from the North")), in prophecies against Babylon, it specifically points to the Medo-Persian Empire. This empire, which conquered Babylon, was indeed located to Babylon's north and east, reinforcing the accuracy of Jeremiah's prophetic foresight and God's precise control over the instruments of His judgment.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
While Jeremiah 50:9 directly prophesies the historical downfall of ancient Babylon, its deeper theological resonance points toward the ultimate triumph of God's kingdom through Jesus Christ. The "assembly of great nations" raised by God to execute judgment foreshadows the universal scope of God's redemptive and judicial plan. Just as Babylon, the oppressive empire, faced certain judgment, so too will all systems of human pride, injustice, and rebellion against God ultimately be brought to nothing by the sovereign hand of God. In Christ, we see the definitive "mighty expert man," not wielding arrows of destruction, but the "sword of his mouth" ([Revelation 1:16](/revelation/1-16 "Revelation 1:16 - The Son of Man's Authority")) and the power of His cross, which decisively conquered sin, death, and the powers of darkness. His mission did not "return in vain"; rather, His sacrifice on Calvary achieved perfect atonement, and His resurrection secured eternal victory, fulfilling God's redemptive purpose with absolute certainty ([Hebrews 9:12](/hebrews/9-12 "Hebrews 9:12 - Christ's Eternal Redemption")). The final "Babylon" – representing all anti-God systems – will ultimately fall before the returning Christ, whose reign will be one of perfect justice and peace, establishing a kingdom that will never be taken ([Revelation 18:2](/revelation/18-2 "Revelation 18:2 - The Fall of Babylon the Great") and [Daniel 2:44](/daniel/2-44 "Daniel 2:44 - God's Everlasting Kingdom")). Thus, this ancient prophecy of a temporal judgment points forward to the eternal and comprehensive victory secured by 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 51:1

¶ Thus saith the LORD; Behold, I will raise up against Babylon, and against them that dwell in the midst of them that rise up against me, a destroying wind;

Jeremiah 51:4

Thus the slain shall fall in the land of the Chaldeans, and [they that are] thrust through in her streets.

Jeremiah 15:14

And I will make [thee] to pass with thine enemies into a land [which] thou knowest not: for a fire is kindled in mine anger, [which] shall burn upon you.

2 Samuel 1:22

From the blood of the slain, from the fat of the mighty, the bow of Jonathan turned not back, and the sword of Saul returned not empty.

Isaiah 21:2

A grievous vision is declared unto me; the treacherous dealer dealeth treacherously, and the spoiler spoileth. Go up, O Elam: besiege, O Media; all the sighing thereof have I made to cease.

Jeremiah 50:3

For out of the north there cometh up a nation against her, which shall make her land desolate, and none shall dwell therein: they shall remove, they shall depart, both man and beast.

Jeremiah 50:29

Call together the archers against Babylon: all ye that bend the bow, camp against it round about; let none thereof escape: recompense her according to her work; according to all that she hath done, do unto her: for she hath been proud against the LORD, against the Holy One of Israel.