Old Testament
Jeremiah 48:23
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
In Jeremiah 48:23, the prophet mentions three cities: Kiriathaim, Bethgamul, and Bethmeon, which were part of Moab.
- Author
- Jeremiah the prophet, with Baruch
- Written
- Around 600 BC
- Genre
- Prophecy
- Original Audience
- Judah before and during the Babylonian exile
on Kiriathaim, Bethgamul, and Bethmeon,
And upon Kiriathaim, and upon Bethgamul, and upon Bethmeon,
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In Jeremiah 48:23, the prophet mentions three cities: Kiriathaim, Bethgamul, and Bethmeon, which were part of Moab. This verse is part of a larger prophecy concerning the judgment that God would bring upon Moab due to their pride and idolatry. Each city represents a significant location within Moab, and their mention signifies the comprehensive nature of the impending judgment. The focus on these cities highlights the consequences of turning away from God and relying on false gods. The prophecy serves as a warning to the people of Moab about the seriousness of their actions and the inevitable repercussions they would face. It emphasizes that no place, no matter how fortified or significant, is beyond God's reach when it comes to judgment. This verse, therefore, not only addresses the specific cities but also serves as a reminder of God's sovereignty over all nations and His call for repentance.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Jeremiah 48:23 to your life
This verse reminds us of the importance of humility and faithfulness to God. Just as Moab faced judgment for their pride and idolatry, we too must examine our lives for any areas where we may be turning away from God. Staying grounded in faith helps us avoid similar consequences.
Curated for this public verse page. Jeremiah Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Jeremiah 48:23 mean?
Jeremiah 48:23 refers to three cities in Moab—Kiriathaim, Bethgamul, and Bethmeon—highlighting God's impending judgment on Moab for their pride and idolatry. The mention of these cities signifies that no place is safe from God's judgment.
What is the significance of Kiriathaim, Bethgamul, and Bethmeon in Jeremiah 48:23?
Kiriathaim, Bethgamul, and Bethmeon are significant locations in Moab that represent the broader consequences of the nation's sin. Their mention underscores the comprehensive nature of God's judgment against Moab.
How does Jeremiah 48:23 relate to pride and idolatry?
The verse illustrates how Moab's pride and reliance on false gods led to their judgment. It emphasizes that such attitudes can lead to serious consequences, as seen in the fate of these cities.
What lessons can we learn from Jeremiah 48:23?
From Jeremiah 48:23, we learn the importance of humility and faithfulness to God. It encourages us to reflect on our lives and avoid the pitfalls of pride and idolatry that can lead to negative outcomes.

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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