Thus the slain shall fall in the land of the Chaldeans, and [they that are] thrust through in her streets.
Thus the slain {H2491} shall fall {H5307} in the land {H776} of the Chaldeans {H3778}, and they that are thrust through {H1856} in her streets {H2351}.
In the land of the Kasdim the slain will fall, those thrust through [by the sword] in her streets.
And they will fall slain in the land of the Chaldeans, and pierced through in her streets.
And they shall fall down slain in the land of the Chaldeans, and thrust through in her streets.
-
Jeremiah 49:26
Therefore her young men shall fall in her streets, and all the men of war shall be cut off in that day, saith the LORD of hosts. -
Isaiah 13:15
Every one that is found shall be thrust through; and every one that is joined [unto them] shall fall by the sword. -
Jeremiah 50:30
Therefore shall her young men fall in the streets, and all her men of war shall be cut off in that day, saith the LORD. -
Jeremiah 50:37
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. -
Isaiah 14:19
But thou art cast out of thy grave like an abominable branch, [and as] the raiment of those that are slain, thrust through with a sword, that go down to the stones of the pit; as a carcase trodden under feet.
Jeremiah 51:4 KJV is a stark declaration of the impending doom and widespread destruction awaiting Babylon, the mighty empire that had oppressed Judah. This verse, part of a longer prophetic oracle against Babylon in Jeremiah chapters 50-51, vividly portrays the catastrophic end of a proud and powerful nation.
Context of Jeremiah 51:4
The book of Jeremiah chronicles the prophet's warnings to Judah about the coming Babylonian exile and, significantly, prophecies concerning the nations, particularly Babylon. Chapters 50 and 51 are dedicated solely to the pronouncement of God's fierce judgment against Babylon, which was at the height of its power after destroying Jerusalem and carrying Judah into captivity. This prophecy served not only as a warning to Babylon but also as a comfort and assurance to the exiled Israelites that their oppressors would face divine retribution. The "Chaldeans" refer to the inhabitants of Babylonia, the dominant ethnic group of the Neo-Babylonian Empire.
Key Themes and Messages
Linguistic Insights
The KJV uses strong, evocative language. "Slain" (Hebrew: chalalim) generally refers to those killed, often in battle or by violence. "Thrust through" (Hebrew: medukkarim) specifically denotes those pierced or stabbed, typically by a sword or spear. This precise phrasing paints a grim picture of violent, agonizing deaths, indicating that no one will be safe from the coming invasion and slaughter. The repetition of "land of the Chaldeans" and "her streets" stresses the totality and public nature of Babylon's downfall.
Practical Application
Jeremiah 51:4 offers timeless lessons for believers today:
The vivid imagery of Jeremiah 51:4 serves as a solemn testament to the consequences of national pride and oppression, affirming God's unwavering commitment to justice and the fulfillment of His prophetic word.