Jeremiah 51:40

KJV

I will bring them down like lambs to the slaughter, like rams with he goats.

KJV (with Strong's)

I will bring them down {H3381} like lambs {H3733} to the slaughter {H2873}, like rams {H352} with he goats {H6260}.

Complete Jewish Bible

"I will drag them down like lambs to be slaughtered, like rams and male goats."

Berean Standard Bible

I will bring them down like lambs to the slaughter, like rams with male goats.

American Standard Version

I will bring them down like lambs to the slaughter, like rams with he-goats.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Jeremiah 51:40 is a stark prophetic declaration within a larger oracle detailing Yahweh's impending and decisive judgment against Babylon, the formidable empire that had devastated Judah and exiled its people. This verse vividly portrays Babylon's complete helplessness and the inevitability of its destruction by depicting its once-mighty leaders and armies as vulnerable animals—lambs, rams, and he-goats—being led to a predetermined slaughter. It underscores God's absolute sovereignty over nations and His commitment to execute justice against pride, idolatry, and the cruel oppression of His people.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Jeremiah 51:40 is embedded within the extensive oracle against Babylon found in [Jeremiah 50-51](/jeremiah/50 "Jeremiah 50-51 - Prophecy Against Babylon"). These chapters constitute the longest single prophecy in the book of Jeremiah, emphasizing the magnitude and certainty of Babylon's downfall. Earlier in the book, particularly in [Jeremiah 25:9](/jeremiah/25-9 "Jeremiah 25:9 - Nebuchadnezzar as God's Servant"), Babylon was identified as God's instrument for disciplining Judah. However, chapters 50-51 pivot to declare God's judgment upon Babylon itself for its excessive cruelty, its pride, and its idolatry, particularly its desecration of the temple in Jerusalem. The immediate verses surrounding [Jeremiah 51:40](/jeremiah/51-40 "Jeremiah 51:40 - Babylon's Slaughter") continue to describe the devastation that will befall Babylon, emphasizing the Lord's vengeance for His temple and His people, and the complete desolation of the land.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The prophecy against Babylon was delivered during a tumultuous period in the late 7th and early 6th centuries BCE. Babylon, under Nebuchadnezzar II, had risen to become the dominant superpower, conquering Judah and destroying Jerusalem in 586 BCE, leading to the Babylonian Exile. This empire was renowned for its military might, its grand capital city, and its extensive idolatry, particularly the worship of Marduk. The cultural context of the ancient Near East involved frequent warfare, with defeated nations often being led into captivity or slaughtered. The imagery of animals being led to slaughter would have been immediately recognizable and deeply impactful, evoking scenes from daily life where livestock were routinely killed for food or sacrifice. The "he-goats" (עַתּוּדִים, *ʻattûwdîm*) in particular could metaphorically represent leaders or prominent figures, as seen in other prophetic texts, thus intensifying the humiliation of Babylon's elite. This prophecy was ultimately fulfilled in 539 BCE when Babylon fell to the Medo-Persian forces led by Cyrus the Great, a historical event that demonstrated God's sovereign control over world empires.

* **Key Themes:** [Jeremiah 51:40](/jeremiah/51-40 "Jeremiah 51:40 - The Slaughter of Babylon") contributes significantly to several overarching themes within Jeremiah and the broader biblical narrative. The primary theme is **Divine Judgment**, unequivocally declaring God's active role in bringing down even the most powerful human empires. It highlights His absolute sovereignty over nations and His unwavering commitment to execute justice against wickedness, pride, and oppression, particularly when directed against His covenant people. Closely related is the theme of **Inevitable Doom**; despite Babylon's immense military might and fortified capital, the metaphor of "lambs to the slaughter, like rams with he goats" vividly portrays its complete lack of defense and the certainty of its demise before God's decree. This verse also powerfully illustrates **Retribution for Oppression**, serving as divine recompense for Babylon's cruelty and pride, especially against Judah and the Lord's temple, reinforcing the biblical principle that those who sow destruction will reap destruction (cf. [Galatians 6:7](/galatians/6-7 "Galatians 6:7 - Sowing and Reaping")). Finally, it underscores the **Reversal of Fortunes**, demonstrating that the mighty empire that brought down kingdoms will itself be brought low, proving that no earthly power can ultimately stand against the will of the Almighty, a theme echoed in [Isaiah 14:12-15](/isaiah/14-12 "Isaiah 14:12-15 - The Fall of Lucifer and Babylon").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **bring them down (Hebrew, _yârad'_):** H3381. This primitive root signifies to descend, to go downwards, or figuratively, to fall. Causatively, as used here, it means to bring down, to cause to fall, or to subdue. Its use emphasizes that God Himself is the active agent in Babylon's downfall, not merely a passive observer. It conveys a decisive, forceful act initiated by divine power, ensuring the complete and utter defeat of Babylon, stripping it of its former elevated status and power.
* **slaughter (Hebrew, _ṭâbach'_):** H2873. This primitive root means to slaughter animals or men, to kill, or to make a slaughter. The term highlights the violent and complete destruction awaiting Babylon. It suggests an act of systematic killing, not merely a battle, implying a lack of resistance from the victims and the absolute control of the one doing the slaughtering. It underscores the severity and finality of God's judgment.
* **he goats (Hebrew, _ʻattûwd'_):** H6260. This word, typically used in the plural, refers to prepared or full-grown he-goats. Figuratively, it can refer to leaders of the people, chief ones, or powerful figures. In this context, pairing "he goats" with "lambs" and "rams" not only reinforces the imagery of helpless livestock but also specifically targets the leadership and prominent figures of Babylon, implying that even their strength and authority will be rendered utterly powerless before God's judgment.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"I will bring them down like lambs to the slaughter":** This clause declares God's direct, sovereign action ("I will bring them down") against Babylon. The powerful empire and its inhabitants are likened to "lambs," symbolizing their utter vulnerability, innocence (in the context of being led to slaughter, not moral innocence), and complete lack of resistance in the face of their impending doom. The phrase "to the slaughter" emphasizes the predetermined, inevitable, and violent nature of their end, much like animals destined for sacrifice or consumption.
* **"like rams with he goats":** This second clause reinforces and expands upon the simile. "Rams" (H352, *ʼayil*) are typically strong, robust animals, often associated with strength or leadership. "He goats" (H6260, *ʻattûwd*) can also metaphorically represent leaders or prominent figures. By grouping these seemingly stronger animals with "lambs," the prophecy underscores that *all* of Babylon—from the weakest to the strongest, from the common populace to its mighty leaders—will share the same fate of helplessness and destruction. The combined imagery paints a comprehensive picture of a once-proud nation reduced to defenseless livestock, utterly at the mercy of the divine executioner.

#### Literary Devices
Jeremiah 51:40 employs several potent literary devices to convey its message of divine judgment. The most prominent is **Simile**, explicitly stated through the use of "like" ("like lambs," "like rams"). This comparison vividly equates the mighty Babylonian empire and its people to vulnerable, defenseless animals being led to their demise, stripping them of their perceived power and dignity. This creates powerful **Imagery**, painting a stark, visceral picture of helpless livestock being driven to a predetermined, violent end, thereby underscoring the inevitability and completeness of Babylon's destruction. There is also an element of **Irony** at play; the empire that proudly conquered and enslaved nations, often treating its captives like cattle, is now itself reduced to the status of defenseless animals. Furthermore, the declaration "I will bring them down" demonstrates **Anthropomorphism**, attributing human-like action (bringing down) to God, emphasizing His direct and personal involvement in the execution of this judgment. The use of these devices together creates a chilling and unforgettable prophecy of divine retribution.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Jeremiah 51:40 stands as a powerful testament to God's ultimate sovereignty over all nations and His unwavering commitment to justice. It reveals a God who not only uses empires for His purposes but also holds them accountable for their pride, idolatry, and oppression. The downfall of Babylon, a seemingly invincible superpower, serves as a timeless reminder that no earthly power can ultimately defy the divine will. This verse underscores the biblical principle that "pride goes before destruction, and a haughty spirit before a fall" ([Proverbs 16:18](/proverbs/16-18 "Proverbs 16:18 - Pride and Fall")). God's judgment, though sometimes delayed, is always certain and perfectly executed, ensuring that the scales of justice are balanced and that His people are ultimately vindicated.

* [Isaiah 13:1-22](/isaiah/13-1 "Isaiah 13:1-22 - Prophecy Against Babylon")
* [Luke 1:52](/luke/1-52 "Luke 1:52 - Mary's Magnificat: Humbling the Proud")
* [Revelation 18:2](/revelation/18-2 "Revelation 18:2 - The Fall of Babylon the Great")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Jeremiah 51:40 offers profound lessons for believers today, reminding us of God's unchanging character and His active involvement in human history. Firstly, it provides immense comfort and hope to those who experience oppression or injustice, affirming that God sees, hears, and will ultimately act to bring justice. No matter how powerful or entrenched evil systems may seem, God remains sovereign, and His justice will prevail. This should cultivate a deep trust in His perfect timing and His promise to right all wrongs. Secondly, the fate of Babylon serves as a stark warning against pride, arrogance, and the abuse of power. It calls us to cultivate humility, recognizing that all authority ultimately derives from God and will be held accountable to Him. For individuals and nations alike, the message is clear: those who exalt themselves will be humbled, and those who humble themselves will be exalted. This verse encourages us to align our lives and our societies with God's righteous standards, living justly, loving mercy, and walking humbly with Him.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does the imagery of "lambs to the slaughter" challenge our perception of earthly power and might?**
* **In what ways might we, as individuals or communities, be tempted by pride or the abuse of influence, and how can we guard against these tendencies?**
* **How does this prophecy of divine judgment against Babylon strengthen your trust in God's ultimate justice in a world often marked by injustice?**
* **What practical steps can you take to live out humility and advocate for justice in your sphere of influence?**

### FAQ

**Who are "them" in this verse, and why are they being brought down?**

Answer: In Jeremiah 51:40, "them" refers to the people and leaders of Babylon, the mighty empire that had conquered Judah and destroyed Jerusalem. They are being "brought down" by God as an act of divine judgment. This judgment is a consequence of Babylon's excessive pride, its idolatry, and its cruel oppression of other nations, particularly God's chosen people. While God had used Babylon as an instrument to discipline Judah for its sins (as seen in [Jeremiah 25:9](/jeremiah/25-9 "Jeremiah 25:9 - Nebuchadnezzar as God's Servant")), Babylon's own wickedness and its boastful defiance of Yahweh ensured its ultimate downfall. The imagery of helpless animals underscores the complete and inevitable nature of their destruction before God's sovereign decree.

**How was the prophecy of Babylon's downfall, as described in this verse, fulfilled historically?**

Answer: The prophecy of Babylon's downfall was historically fulfilled in 539 BCE when the city of Babylon fell to the Medo-Persian forces led by Cyrus the Great. The historical accounts, including those from Herodotus and Xenophon, describe a relatively swift and unexpected conquest, with the Medo-Persians diverting the Euphrates River and entering the city through its river gates, catching the Babylonians off guard during a feast (cf. [Daniel 5](/daniel/5 "Daniel 5 - Belshazzar's Feast and the Fall of Babylon")). This event marked the end of the Neo-Babylonian Empire, demonstrating God's sovereign control over world empires and His faithfulness to His prophetic word. The fall of Babylon allowed for the return of the Jewish exiles to their homeland, as prophesied by Jeremiah and Isaiah (e.g., [Jeremiah 29:10](/jeremiah/29-10 "Jeremiah 29:10 - Seventy Years of Exile")).

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Jeremiah 51:40, while a prophecy of judgment against historical Babylon, finds profound Christ-centered fulfillment in several ways, particularly in the broader themes it expresses. The image of the powerful being brought down like "lambs to the slaughter" foreshadows the ultimate reversal of fortunes brought about by Christ. While Babylon's leaders were unwillingly led to their doom, Jesus Christ, the true [Lamb of God](/john/1-29 "John 1:29 - Jesus, the Lamb of God"), willingly submitted to being led "to the slaughter" ([Isaiah 53:7](/isaiah/53-7 "Isaiah 53:7 - The Suffering Servant")), offering Himself as the perfect sacrifice for the sins of humanity. His voluntary humiliation unto death on the cross ([Philippians 2:8](/philippians/2-8 "Philippians 2:8 - Christ's Humiliation")) stands in stark contrast to Babylon's forced humiliation, yet both demonstrate the principle of God bringing down the proud and exalting the humble. Furthermore, the ultimate "fall of Babylon" in the New Testament, as depicted in [Revelation 18](/revelation/18 "Revelation 18 - The Fall of Babylon the Great"), symbolizes the final judgment of all systems, powers, and spiritual forces that oppose God and oppress His people. This ultimate victory is achieved through Christ, who returns as the conquering King ([Revelation 19:11-16](/revelation/19-11 "Revelation 19:11-16 - Christ the Conquering King")), ensuring the complete and final overthrow of all evil. Thus, Jeremiah's prophecy not only points to a historical event but also to the cosmic triumph of Christ, who, by His sacrificial death and glorious return, brings down all spiritual and earthly "Babylons" and establishes His eternal kingdom of justice and peace.

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 50:27

Slay all her bullocks; let them go down to the slaughter: woe unto them! for their day is come, the time of their visitation.

Psalms 37:20

But the wicked shall perish, and the enemies of the LORD [shall be] as the fat of lambs: they shall consume; into smoke shall they consume away.

Isaiah 34:6

The sword of the LORD is filled with blood, it is made fat with fatness, [and] with the blood of lambs and goats, with the fat of the kidneys of rams: for the LORD hath a sacrifice in Bozrah, and a great slaughter in the land of Idumea.

Psalms 44:22

Yea, for thy sake are we killed all the day long; we are counted as sheep for the slaughter.

Ezekiel 39:18

Ye shall eat the flesh of the mighty, and drink the blood of the princes of the earth, of rams, of lambs, and of goats, of bullocks, all of them fatlings of Bashan.