Jeremiah 51:58

KJV

Thus saith the LORD of hosts; The broad walls of Babylon shall be utterly broken, and her high gates shall be burned with fire; and the people shall labour in vain, and the folk in the fire, and they shall be weary.

KJV (with Strong's)

Thus saith {H559} the LORD {H3068} of hosts {H6635}; The broad {H7342} walls {H2346} of Babylon {H894} shall be utterly {H6209} broken {H6209}, and her high {H1364} gates {H8179} shall be burned {H3341} with fire {H784}; and the people {H5971} shall labour {H3021} in vain {H7385}, and the folk {H3816} in {H1767} the fire {H784}, and they shall be weary {H3286}.

Complete Jewish Bible

Thus says ADONAI-Tzva'ot: "The wide walls of Bavel will be razed to the ground, her lofty gates will be set on fire. The peoples are toiling for nothing, the nation's labor goes up in flames, and everyone is exhausted."

Berean Standard Bible

This is what the LORD of Hosts says: “Babylon’s thick walls will be leveled, and her high gates consumed by fire. So the labor of the people will be for nothing; the nations will exhaust themselves to fuel the flames.”

American Standard Version

Thus saith Jehovah of hosts: The broad walls of Babylon shall be utterly overthrown, and her high gates shall be burned with fire; and the peoples shall labor for vanity, and the nations for the fire; and they shall be weary.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Jeremiah 51:58 delivers a definitive prophetic judgment against Babylon, declaring the inevitable and catastrophic collapse of its formidable defenses and the utter futility of its people's efforts. This verse, spoken by the LORD of hosts, underscores divine sovereignty over human empires, revealing that even the most impregnable human achievements are powerless against God's decree, leading to the exhaustion and despair of those who trust in their own might.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Jeremiah 51:58 is situated within a lengthy and comprehensive prophetic oracle against Babylon, spanning chapters 50 and 51. This extended prophecy serves as a counterpoint to the earlier pronouncements of judgment against Judah, now turning God's wrath upon the very nation that served as His instrument of discipline. Chapters 50 and 51 detail Babylon's pride, idolatry, and cruelty towards God's people, culminating in a vivid portrayal of its total destruction. Verse 58 specifically focuses on the physical dismantling of Babylon's renowned fortifications, reinforcing the theme of its complete and irreversible downfall, echoing earlier declarations of its desolation (e.g., [Jeremiah 50:3](/jeremiah/50-3 "Jeremiah 50:3 - Babylon's Desolation")). The preceding verses in chapter 51 describe the instruments of God's judgment (the Medes and Persians) and the suddenness of Babylon's fall, while this verse emphasizes the physical destruction and the resulting despair.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** Babylon, under the Neo-Babylonian Empire, particularly during the reign of Nebuchadnezzar II, was the dominant superpower of the ancient Near East. It was responsible for the destruction of Jerusalem in 586 BC and the subsequent Babylonian exile of the Jewish people. The city of Babylon itself was legendary for its immense size and fortifications, including its "broad walls" (often identified with the walls of Imgur-Enlil and Nimitti-Enlil, described by Herodotus as being wide enough for chariots to race upon) and its massive, bronze-plated "high gates." These defenses were considered impregnable, a testament to human engineering and a symbol of Babylon's perceived invincibility and imperial pride. This prophecy, therefore, directly challenges the very foundation of Babylon's security and self-assurance, foretelling a collapse that would have seemed utterly impossible to its inhabitants and contemporaries.
* **Key Themes:** This verse powerfully contributes to several overarching themes within Jeremiah and the broader biblical narrative. Firstly, it highlights **Divine Sovereignty and Judgment**, asserting that God, as the "LORD of hosts," possesses ultimate authority over all nations and history, orchestrating the rise and fall of empires according to His righteous will. Babylon's judgment is a direct consequence of its arrogance and its oppressive treatment of God's chosen people, as detailed throughout [Jeremiah 50-51](/jeremiah/50 "Jeremiah 50-51 - Prophecy Against Babylon"). Secondly, it emphasizes the **Futility of Human Strength and Pride**. The destruction of Babylon's mighty walls and gates symbolizes the vanity of relying on human ingenuity, military might, or material security apart from God. The "people shall labour in vain" underscores the ultimate fruitlessness of efforts built on self-reliance and defiance of divine purposes. Finally, it reinforces the **Certainty and Reliability of God's Prophetic Word**, demonstrating that God's pronouncements, no matter how improbable they seem, will inevitably come to pass, as was historically fulfilled by the Medo-Persian conquest of Babylon under Cyrus the Great (cf. [Daniel 5:30-31](/daniel/5-30 "Daniel 5:30-31 - The Fall of Babylon")).

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Walls (Hebrew, _chôwmâh'_):** This term, derived from a root meaning "to join," refers to a protective wall or fortification. In the context of Babylon, it specifically denotes the city's massive, renowned defensive structures. The prophecy's declaration that these "walls... shall be utterly broken" directly attacks the very symbol of Babylon's security, pride, and perceived invincibility, highlighting that what humans build for protection is fragile before divine judgment.
* **High (Hebrew, _gâbôahh'_):** This adjective describes something elevated, lofty, or tall, but also carries connotations of arrogance and pride. Applied to Babylon's "high gates," it not only describes their physical stature but also subtly alludes to the haughty spirit of the Babylonian empire, which exalted itself above all nations and even God. Their burning signifies the humbling of this pride.
* **Labour (Hebrew, _yâgaʻ'_):** A primitive root meaning "to gasp," "to be exhausted," or "to toil intensely." This word conveys the strenuous, wearying effort expended by the Babylonian people in building and defending their city. The phrase "shall labour in vain" emphasizes that all their immense, exhausting work will ultimately amount to nothing, producing no lasting security or benefit, but only futility and weariness, as their efforts are directly opposed to God's ordained judgment.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Thus saith the LORD of hosts;":** This opening phrase functions as a prophetic formula, unequivocally establishing the divine origin and authoritative nature of the message. "The LORD of hosts" (Yahweh Sabaoth) emphasizes God's supreme power as the commander of heavenly armies and earthly forces, underscoring His absolute control over nations and history, and His ability to execute His will against even the mightiest empires.
* **"The broad walls of Babylon shall be utterly broken, ":** This clause targets the most iconic symbol of Babylon's strength and security—its vast and seemingly impenetrable fortifications. The term "broad walls" highlights their massive scale. "Utterly broken" signifies a complete and devastating demolition, not merely a breach, but a total dismantling that leaves nothing intact, demonstrating the futility of human defenses against divine decree.
* **"and her high gates shall be burned with fire;":** Complementing the destruction of the walls, this clause specifies the fiery obliteration of Babylon's imposing gates. These gates, often made of wood and reinforced with bronze, represented points of entry and control. Their burning signifies the complete penetration and subjugation of the city, leaving it defenseless and exposed, and further illustrating the comprehensive nature of God's judgment.
* **"and the people shall labour in vain, ":** This phrase shifts focus from the physical structures to the human element. "Labour in vain" conveys the immense, exhausting, and ultimately fruitless efforts of the Babylonian populace. Despite their toil in building, defending, or rebuilding, their work will yield no lasting security or success because it stands against God's determined purpose, resulting in utter futility.
* **"and the folk in the fire, and they shall be weary.":** This final clause intensifies the picture of despair and exhaustion. "The folk in the fire" could refer to those caught in the literal conflagration or, more broadly, to those enduring the fiery trials of judgment and war. The concluding phrase "and they shall be weary" underscores the profound physical and emotional exhaustion that will grip the people, a weariness born of futile struggle and overwhelming defeat, marking the end of their resistance and the triumph of God's judgment.

#### Literary Devices
Jeremiah 51:58 employs several potent literary devices to convey its message of divine judgment and the futility of human pride. **Hyperbole** is evident in the description of Babylon's defenses as "broad walls" and "high gates," which, while historically massive, are presented in a way that emphasizes their seemingly insurmountable nature, only to highlight the even greater power of God who can "utterly break" them. This exaggeration serves to magnify the divine accomplishment. There is also a strong element of **Symbolism**, where Babylon's walls and gates are not merely physical structures but represent the empire's pride, self-reliance, and perceived invincibility. Their destruction thus symbolizes the complete shattering of Babylon's power and its arrogant spirit. Furthermore, **Parallelism** is used in the final clauses: "the people shall labour in vain, and the folk in the fire, and they shall be weary." This structure emphasizes the dual aspects of their suffering—futile effort and overwhelming exhaustion—creating a rhythmic and reinforcing sense of their ultimate despair and defeat. The entire verse functions as a powerful **Prophetic Declaration**, a pronouncement of future events with absolute certainty, reinforcing the theme of God's unwavering control over history.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Jeremiah 51:58 profoundly illustrates God's absolute sovereignty over human empires and the inevitable judgment that awaits those who oppose His will and oppress His people. It serves as a powerful reminder that no human construct, however mighty or secure it appears, can withstand divine decree. Babylon's fall is a testament to the vanity of human pride and the futility of relying on earthly strength rather than on the living God. This prophecy not only assured the exiled Israelites of God's justice but also provided a timeless warning against the dangers of national arrogance and the ultimate triumph of God's righteous kingdom over all earthly powers.

* [Psalm 127:1](/psalm/127-1 "Psalm 127:1 - Unless the Lord Builds the House")
* [Isaiah 13:19-22](/isaiah/13-19 "Isaiah 13:19-22 - Prophecy Against Babylon")
* [Revelation 18:2-8](/revelation/18-2 "Revelation 18:2-8 - The Fall of Babylon the Great")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Jeremiah 51:58 offers profound lessons for contemporary believers, urging a re-evaluation of where we place our trust and invest our efforts. In a world that often values material security, technological advancement, and human ingenuity above all else, this verse serves as a stark reminder that all earthly foundations are ultimately transient. It calls us to cultivate humility, recognizing that true security and lasting peace are found only in God's unwavering power and faithful provision, not in our own strength or accomplishments. For those who feel overwhelmed by oppressive systems or seemingly insurmountable challenges, this prophecy offers immense comfort, assuring us that God sees injustice and will ultimately bring down every "Babylon" that exalts itself against Him and His people. It encourages us to labor not for fleeting earthly gains, but for the eternal kingdom, building our lives on the unshakeable foundation of Christ's truth, knowing that efforts aligned with God's purposes are never in vain.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **What "broad walls" or "high gates" do I, or my society, tend to rely on for security instead of God?**
* **In what areas of my life might I be "labouring in vain" because my efforts are not aligned with God's will or eternal purposes?**
* **How does the certainty of God's judgment against pride and oppression encourage my faith in the face of current injustices?**
* **What does it mean to build my life on an "eternal foundation" in light of Babylon's ultimate collapse?**

### FAQ
**Why was Babylon singled out for such a severe judgment?**

Answer: Babylon was singled out for severe judgment primarily because of its extreme pride, its idolatry, and its cruel oppression of God's people, Israel. While God used Babylon as an instrument to discipline Judah for their sins, Babylon's actions went beyond divine commission, demonstrating a ruthless ambition and a defiant spirit against God Himself. The city's immense fortifications and its king's arrogance (as seen in [Daniel 4](/daniel/4 "Daniel 4 - Nebuchadnezzar's Humiliation")) symbolized its self-exaltation. Jeremiah's prophecy highlights that God holds all nations accountable for their actions, especially when they act with unchecked power and disregard for justice, making Babylon a prime example of divine retribution against human hubris.

**How was this prophecy of Babylon's fall fulfilled?**

Answer: The prophecy of Babylon's fall was historically fulfilled in 539 BC when the city was conquered by the Medes and Persians under Cyrus the Great. This event is famously recounted in [Daniel 5](/daniel/5 "Daniel 5 - Belshazzar's Feast and the Fall of Babylon"), where King Belshazzar's feast is interrupted by the mysterious writing on the wall, "Mene, Mene, Tekel, Parsin," signifying the end of his kingdom. The Persian army diverted the Euphrates River, which flowed under Babylon's walls, allowing them to enter the city through the riverbed and its gates, which were reportedly left open. While the "broad walls" were not "utterly broken" in a single, dramatic explosion, their strategic significance was nullified, and the city's power was definitively shattered, leading to its eventual decline and desolation, fulfilling the spirit of the prophecy.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Jeremiah 51:58, while a prophecy against ancient Babylon, finds its ultimate Christ-centered fulfillment in the triumph of God's eternal kingdom over all earthly powers and the defeat of all spiritual opposition. Babylon, with its "broad walls" and "high gates," symbolizes the epitome of human pride, self-sufficiency, and rebellion against God, a system that enslaves and oppresses. In the New Testament, this "Babylon" often represents the world system in rebellion against God, especially in the book of [Revelation](/revelation/17 "Revelation 17 - The Great Prostitute and the Beast"), where "Babylon the Great" is depicted as the spiritual antagonist of God's people, characterized by idolatry, immorality, and persecution. Just as the physical walls of ancient Babylon crumbled, so too will every spiritual "Babylon"—every system of human pride and injustice—be utterly broken by the sovereign power of God. Christ, as the [Lamb of God](/john/1-29 "John 1:29 - Jesus, the Lamb of God") and the [King of Kings](/revelation/19-16 "Revelation 19:16 - King of Kings and Lord of Lords"), has already triumphed over the powers of darkness through His death and resurrection, disarming them and making a public spectacle of them ([Colossians 2:15](/colossians/2-15 "Colossians 2:15 - Triumph Over Powers")). His final return will usher in the complete and eternal destruction of all that opposes Him, leading to a new heaven and new earth where righteousness dwells and all "labour in vain" ceases, replaced by the eternal rest and worship of God's redeemed people ([Revelation 21:1-4](/revelation/21-1 "Revelation 21:1-4 - The New Heaven and New Earth")). Thus, Jeremiah's prophecy anticipates the ultimate victory of Christ, where all human efforts built apart from Him will prove futile, and His kingdom, built on an unshakeable foundation, will endure forever ([Hebrews 12:28](/hebrews/12-28 "Hebrews 12:28 - A Kingdom That Cannot Be Shaken")).

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 51:64

And thou shalt say, Thus shall Babylon sink, and shall not rise from the evil that I will bring upon her: and they shall be weary. Thus far [are] the words of Jeremiah.

Habakkuk 2:13

Behold, [is it] not of the LORD of hosts that the people shall labour in the very fire, and the people shall weary themselves for very vanity?

Jeremiah 51:44

And I will punish Bel in Babylon, and I will bring forth out of his mouth that which he hath swallowed up: and the nations shall not flow together any more unto him: yea, the wall of Babylon shall fall.

Jeremiah 50:15

Shout against her round about: she hath given her hand: her foundations are fallen, her walls are thrown down: for it [is] the vengeance of the LORD: take vengeance upon her; as she hath done, do unto her.

Psalms 127:1

¶ A Song of degrees for Solomon. Except the LORD build the house, they labour in vain that build it: except the LORD keep the city, the watchman waketh [but] in vain.

Jeremiah 51:9

We would have healed Babylon, but she is not healed: forsake her, and let us go every one into his own country: for her judgment reacheth unto heaven, and is lifted up [even] to the skies.

Isaiah 45:1

¶ Thus saith the LORD to his anointed, to Cyrus, whose right hand I have holden, to subdue nations before him; and I will loose the loins of kings, to open before him the two leaved gates; and the gates shall not be shut;