Jeremiah 51:62

KJV

Then shalt thou say, O LORD, thou hast spoken against this place, to cut it off, that none shall remain in it, neither man nor beast, but that it shall be desolate for ever.

KJV (with Strong's)

Then shalt thou say {H559}, O LORD {H3068}, thou hast spoken {H1696} against this place {H4725}, to cut it off {H3772}, that none shall remain {H3427} in it, neither man {H120} nor beast {H929}, but that it shall be desolate {H8077} for ever {H5769}.

Complete Jewish Bible

'ADONAI, you have promised to destroy this place, that no one will live here, neither human nor animal, but that it will be desolate forever.'

Berean Standard Bible

and say, ‘O LORD, You have promised to cut off this place so that no one will remain—neither man nor beast. Indeed, it will be desolate forever.’

American Standard Version

and say, O Jehovah, thou hast spoken concerning this place, to cut it off, that none shall dwell therein, neither man nor beast, but that it shall be desolate for ever.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Jeremiah 51:62 encapsulates a solemn divine declaration concerning the utter and permanent destruction of Babylon. This verse, part of a larger prophetic oracle delivered through Jeremiah, serves as a direct instruction to Seraiah, affirming that the Lord Himself has decreed a complete cutting off of the city, ensuring that neither man nor beast will remain, leaving it in perpetual desolation. It underscores the certainty and severity of God's judgment against a powerful empire that had oppressed His people.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Jeremiah 51:62 is situated within a lengthy prophetic oracle against Babylon, spanning chapters 50 and 51 of the book of Jeremiah. Specifically, it forms part of the instructions given by Jeremiah to Seraiah, the quartermaster, who was accompanying King Zedekiah to Babylon. Jeremiah had entrusted Seraiah with a scroll containing all the prophecies of judgment against Babylon. The preceding verses detail the extent of Babylon's impending fall, describing it as a judgment from the Lord for its pride and cruelty. Verse 62 is the specific declaration Seraiah was to make aloud in Babylon, affirming the divine origin and irreversible nature of the coming desolation, immediately before the symbolic act of sinking the scroll in the Euphrates River as described in [Jeremiah 51:63-64](/jeremiah/51-63 "Jeremiah 51:63-64 - The Symbolic Sinking of Babylon"). This literary placement emphasizes the divine authority behind the prophecy and the tangible, public nature of its pronouncement.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The prophecy against Babylon was delivered during a tumultuous period in Judah's history, likely after the first Babylonian deportation in 597 BC and before the final destruction of Jerusalem in 586 BC. Babylon, under Nebuchadnezzar, was the dominant superpower, having conquered Judah, destroyed the temple, and exiled its inhabitants. The city of Babylon itself was a marvel of the ancient world, renowned for its immense walls, hanging gardens, and vast wealth. For a prophet to declare such a complete and permanent desolation against such a formidable empire, and for this declaration to be made within Babylon's own borders, was an act of profound faith and defiance against human power, rooted solely in the authority of Yahweh. The cultural understanding of "desolation" in the ancient Near East often implied a return to a primordial chaos, a state of un-creation, signifying a judgment of the highest order.
* **Key Themes:** This verse powerfully contributes to several overarching themes within Jeremiah and the broader prophetic literature. First, it highlights **Divine Sovereignty and Justice**, asserting that the Lord, not any earthly power, is the ultimate arbiter of nations' destinies. Babylon's fall is presented not as a mere political shift but as a direct act of God's righteous judgment against its idolatry, pride, and oppression of His covenant people, as seen in [Jeremiah 50:29](/jeremiah/50-29 "Jeremiah 50:29 - God's Vengeance on Babylon"). Second, it underscores the **Certainty and Efficacy of God's Word**. The command for Seraiah to declare this prophecy publicly in Babylon before its fulfillment serves as a powerful testament to God's faithfulness to His promises and threats. Just as God's word brought creation into being, His word also brings about judgment and desolation, as affirmed in [Isaiah 55:11](/isaiah/55-11 "Isaiah 55:11 - God's Word Accomplishes Its Purpose"). Finally, the phrase "desolate for ever" emphasizes the theme of **Irreversible Judgment and Ultimate Desolation**. Unlike other nations that might experience cycles of rise and fall, Babylon's decreed end is presented as final, a perpetual wasteland, signifying the severity of its sins and serving as a lasting warning, echoing similar prophecies in [Isaiah 13:20-22](/isaiah/13-20 "Isaiah 13:20-22 - Prophecy of Babylon's Permanent Desolation").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Say (Hebrew, _ʼâmar'_):** From H559, this primitive root is used with great latitude, meaning "to say," "to speak," "to declare," or "to command." In this context, it signifies a direct, authoritative pronouncement from the prophet, echoing the very words of the Lord. It emphasizes the divine origin and certainty of the message, not merely a human opinion or prediction.
* **Cut it off (Hebrew, _kârath'_):** From H3772, this root means "to cut (off, down or asunder)," and by implication, "to destroy or consume." While often used for making covenants (by cutting flesh), here it is used in its destructive sense, indicating a complete and decisive separation or termination. It implies a thorough and irreversible act of judgment that severs Babylon from its existence and power.
* **Desolate (Hebrew, _shᵉmâmâh'_):** From H8077, this feminine noun signifies "devastation" or "astonishment." It describes a state of utter ruin, waste, or desolation, often implying a shocking and awe-inspiring destruction. The use of this word underscores the visual and emotional impact of Babylon's future state – a place rendered uninhabitable and a monument to divine wrath.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Then shalt thou say, O LORD, thou hast spoken against this place,"**: This opening clause establishes the divine authority and prophetic mandate. Seraiah is not speaking his own words but is commanded to declare what the Lord Himself has already "spoken." The phrase "this place" directly refers to Babylon, the object of God's pronouncement. It highlights God's active involvement in history and His direct confrontation with the prideful empire.
* **"to cut it off, that none shall remain in it, neither man nor beast,"**: This segment details the nature and extent of the judgment. "To cut it off" signifies a complete eradication, a severing of Babylon's existence. The phrase "that none shall remain in it, neither man nor beast" is a powerful hyperbole emphasizing absolute and total depopulation. It paints a picture of a land so utterly devastated that no life, human or animal, can subsist there, signifying a return to an uninhabited wilderness.
* **"but that it shall be desolate for ever."**: This concluding clause specifies the duration and permanence of the judgment. "Desolate" (as analyzed above) conveys utter ruin, and "for ever" (Hebrew, _ʻôwlâm'_) denotes an indefinite, perpetual duration, often signifying eternity or a very long, enduring time. In this context, combined with the extreme desolation, it strongly conveys an irreversible, permanent state of ruin, ensuring Babylon's inability to rise again to its former glory.

#### Literary Devices
Jeremiah 51:62 employs several potent literary devices to convey the gravity and certainty of Babylon's judgment. **Personification** is subtly present as the Lord is depicted as "speaking against this place," giving Babylon a quasi-personal status as an entity directly addressed by divine wrath. The phrase "that none shall remain in it, neither man nor beast" is a clear example of **Hyperbole**, an exaggeration used for emphasis. While literal, absolute eradication of all life might be difficult to achieve, the hyperbole effectively communicates the totality and severity of the impending destruction, leaving no hope for recovery or re-habitation. The entire verse functions as a **Prophetic Oracle**, a divinely inspired utterance that declares future events, emphasizing the **Divine Fiat** – God's authoritative command that brings about what He declares. The ultimate state of Babylon, "desolate for ever," serves as a powerful **Symbolism** of the consequences of national pride, idolatry, and oppression, a lasting monument to divine justice.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
This verse profoundly articulates the theological truth of God's absolute sovereignty over all nations and His unwavering commitment to justice. It demonstrates that no earthly power, however mighty or seemingly invincible, can ultimately withstand the divine decree. The Lord's "speaking against" Babylon signifies not merely a verbal pronouncement but an active, effectual word that brings about its intended purpose. This judgment serves as a stark reminder that God holds all of humanity accountable for their actions, particularly those who oppress the innocent and defy His righteous standards. The complete and lasting desolation of Babylon, a city once the epitome of human glory and power, underscores the transient nature of worldly empires and the eternal nature of God's kingdom and His judgments.

* [Isaiah 13:19-22](/isaiah/13-19 "The Complete Ruin of Babylon")
* [Revelation 18:21-23](/revelation/18-21 "The Symbolic Fall of Babylon the Great")
* [Deuteronomy 28:15-68](/deuteronomy/28 "Consequences of Disobedience")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Jeremiah 51:62 offers profound lessons for contemporary believers. It reminds us that God remains sovereign over all human affairs, even when circumstances seem chaotic or oppressive. The ultimate downfall of Babylon, a symbol of worldly power and rebellion against God, assures us that divine justice will prevail, and no evil will escape accountability. This truth provides comfort to those who feel oppressed and a sober warning to those who might be tempted to abuse power or disregard divine commands. It calls us to align our lives, our communities, and our nations with God's righteous standards, trusting that His word is reliable and His purposes will ultimately be fulfilled. Furthermore, it encourages us to cultivate a posture of humility, recognizing that all earthly achievements and powers are fleeting in comparison to the eternal kingdom of God.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does the certainty of God's judgment against Babylon encourage or challenge your view of divine justice in the world today?**
* **In what ways might the concept of "desolate for ever" apply to the spiritual consequences of persistent rebellion against God?**
* **How does the reliability of God's word, as demonstrated in this prophecy, strengthen your faith in His promises for your own life?**

### FAQ
**Why is Babylon's destruction described as "for ever" and so absolute ("neither man nor beast")?**

Answer: The description of Babylon's destruction as "for ever" (Hebrew, _ʻôwlâm'_) and utterly absolute ("neither man nor beast") emphasizes the finality and severity of God's judgment. It signifies that Babylon's fall would not be a temporary setback or a mere change of rulers, but a complete and irreversible end to its existence as a dominant, inhabited power. This hyperbole underscores the depth of its sin—its pride, idolatry, and brutal oppression of God's people (see [Jeremiah 50:29](/jeremiah/50-29 "Jeremiah 50:29 - God's Vengeance on Babylon")). The "for ever" aspect suggests that it would serve as a perpetual warning and a testament to God's justice, a desolate monument to human rebellion, as echoed in [Isaiah 13:20](/isaiah/13-20 "Isaiah 13:20 - Babylon Never to be Inhabited").

**How does this specific prophecy relate to the broader biblical theme of God's judgment on nations?**

Answer: This prophecy is a prime example of the biblical theme that God is sovereign over all nations and holds them accountable for their actions. Throughout the Old Testament, God raises up and casts down empires according to His divine plan and righteous judgment (e.g., [Daniel 2:21](/daniel/2-21 "Daniel 2:21 - God Changes Times and Seasons")). Babylon, though used by God as an instrument of judgment against Judah, ultimately faced its own reckoning for its arrogance and cruelty. This demonstrates that God's justice is impartial and universal, applying to His own people and to the surrounding nations alike, reinforcing the principle that "righteousness exalts a nation, but sin is a reproach to any people" ([Proverbs 14:34](/proverbs/14-34 "Proverbs 14:34 - Righteousness Exalts a Nation")).

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
While Jeremiah 51:62 directly prophesies the historical destruction of ancient Babylon, its profound message of divine judgment against a powerful, oppressive world system finds its ultimate Christ-centered fulfillment in the New Testament's portrayal of the final judgment of all evil and the establishment of God's eternal kingdom. Just as God "spoke against" Babylon and brought about its desolation, so too will Christ, the Word made flesh, execute ultimate judgment against all forms of sin, rebellion, and anti-God systems, often symbolized as "Babylon the Great" in Revelation (e.g., [Revelation 18:2](/revelation/18-2 "Revelation 18:2 - Fall of Babylon the Great")). The "cutting off" and "desolation for ever" of Babylon foreshadow the complete eradication of evil and suffering that Christ accomplishes through His atoning sacrifice and His triumphant return. His death on the cross "cut off" the power of sin and death, and His resurrection guarantees the "desolation" of the grave for believers. Ultimately, the new heavens and new earth, where "neither man nor beast" (in the sense of fallen creation) will suffer under the curse, represent the final, eternal state of peace and righteousness, where former things have passed away ([Revelation 21:4](/revelation/21-4 "Revelation 21:4 - No More Death or Mourning")). Christ, the righteous Judge and benevolent King, ensures that the desolation of sin's reign is permanent, paving the way for His everlasting kingdom of light and life ([2 Peter 3:13](/2_peter/3-13 "2 Peter 3:13 - New Heavens and New Earth")).

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 50:3

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 50:13

Because of the wrath of the LORD it shall not be inhabited, but it shall be wholly desolate: every one that goeth by Babylon shall be astonished, and hiss at all her plagues.

Revelation 18:20

Rejoice over her, [thou] heaven, and [ye] holy apostles and prophets; for God hath avenged you on her.

Revelation 18:23

And the light of a candle shall shine no more at all in thee; and the voice of the bridegroom and of the bride shall be heard no more at all in thee: for thy merchants were the great men of the earth; for by thy sorceries were all nations deceived.

Jeremiah 50:39

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.

Jeremiah 50:40

As God overthrew Sodom and Gomorrah and the neighbour [cities] thereof, saith the LORD; [so] shall no man abide there, neither shall any son of man dwell therein.

Isaiah 13:19

¶ And Babylon, the glory of kingdoms, the beauty of the Chaldees' excellency, shall be as when God overthrew Sodom and Gomorrah.