Old Testament
Jeremiah 47:4
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
In this verse, the prophet Jeremiah speaks about a coming day of judgment against the Philistines, a group historically hostile to Israel.
- Author
- Jeremiah the prophet, with Baruch
- Written
- Around 600 BC
- Genre
- Prophecy
- Original Audience
- Judah before and during the Babylonian exile
Because of the day that is coming to destroy all the Philistines and to cut off every helper remaining in Tyre and Sidon. For the LORD will destroy the Philistines, the remnant of the country of Caphtor.
Because of the day that cometh to spoil all the Philistines, and to cut off from Tyrus and Zidon every helper that remaineth: for the LORD will spoil the Philistines, the remnant of the country of Caphtor.
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, the prophet Jeremiah speaks about a coming day of judgment against the Philistines, a group historically hostile to Israel. The destruction will not only affect the Philistines but also their allies in Tyre and Sidon, two prominent cities known for their trade and support. The mention of cutting off every helper indicates that no one will be able to assist the Philistines in their time of need. The reference to Caphtor, often associated with the origin of the Philistines, emphasizes that this judgment will be comprehensive, targeting the very roots of their power. This prophecy serves as a warning about the consequences of opposing God and highlights His sovereignty over nations. It reminds the people of Israel that God is in control and will bring justice against those who threaten His chosen people. The impending destruction is a call to repentance and a reminder of the importance of aligning with God's will rather than opposing it.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Jeremiah 47:4 to your life
This verse encourages us to reflect on our alliances and the influences we allow in our lives. Just as the Philistines faced judgment, we should be mindful of our choices and ensure they align with God's will. Trusting in God's sovereignty can provide comfort during difficult times.
Curated for this public verse page. Jeremiah Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Jeremiah 47:4 mean?
Jeremiah 47:4 speaks about a coming judgment against the Philistines, indicating that God will destroy them and their allies in Tyre and Sidon. This verse emphasizes God's control over nations and serves as a warning about the consequences of opposing Him.
What is the significance of Caphtor in Jeremiah 47:4?
Caphtor is often associated with the origin of the Philistines, and its mention in Jeremiah 47:4 highlights that the judgment will reach the very roots of their power. This signifies that God's judgment is comprehensive and affects not just the Philistines but their entire lineage.
What does 'cut off every helper' mean in Jeremiah 47:4?
The phrase 'cut off every helper' in Jeremiah 47:4 means that no allies or supporters will be able to assist the Philistines during their time of destruction. This underscores the totality of God's judgment against them.
How can we apply Jeremiah 47:4 to our lives today?
We can apply Jeremiah 47:4 by reflecting on our alliances and ensuring they align with God's will. The verse encourages us to trust in God's sovereignty and be mindful of the influences we allow in our lives.

The Book of Jeremiah
Jeremiah 1: The Call of Jeremiah
The words of Jeremiah, son of Hilkiah, a priest from Anathoth in the land of Benjamin, are recorded. The word of the LORD comes to him in the thirteenth year of King Josiah's reign over Judah. It continues to come to him through the reign of King Jehoiakim and until the eleventh year of King Zedekiah, when Jerusalem is carried into captivity. The LORD states that before He formed Jeremiah in the womb, He knew him and ordained him as a prophet to the nations. Jeremiah responds that he cannot speak because he is a child. The LORD commands him not to say he is a child, for he will go where the LORD sends him and speak what the LORD commands.
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