Old Testament
Jeremiah 48:28
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
You people of Moab, abandon your cities and go live among the rocks. Be like a dove that nests on the ledges over a deep gorge.
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O ye that dwell in Moab, leave the cities, and dwell in the rock, and be like the dove that maketh her nest in the sides of the hole’s mouth.
What Jeremiah 48:28 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, the prophet Jeremiah addresses the people of Moab, urging them to flee their cities and seek refuge in the rocky hills. The imagery of a dove nesting in a high, secure place symbolizes the need for safety and protection. Moab is facing impending judgment and destruction, and Jeremiah's message is one of warning and urgency. By leaving their cities, the Moabites are encouraged to find safety away from the chaos and danger that is coming. The reference to the dove suggests a need for peace and security, as doves are often seen as symbols of gentleness and safety. This call to abandon their homes reflects the seriousness of their situation and the necessity of taking immediate action to avoid disaster. The verse serves as a reminder of the importance of recognizing when to seek safety and the need for spiritual vigilance in times of crisis.
How to apply Jeremiah 48:28 to your life
This verse encourages us to recognize when we need to leave behind harmful situations or environments. Just as the Moabites were urged to seek safety, we should be willing to make difficult choices for our well-being and spiritual health, prioritizing safety and peace.
Curated for this public verse page. Jeremiah Summary
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Keep studying Jeremiah 48:28
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At a Glance — the Book of Jeremiah
- Author
- Jeremiah the prophet, with Baruch
- Written
- Around 600 BC
- Genre
- Prophecy
- Original Audience
- Judah before and during the Babylonian exile
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Jeremiah 48:28 mean for the people of Moab?
Jeremiah 48:28 serves as a warning to the people of Moab about impending judgment and destruction. The prophet urges them to abandon their cities and seek refuge in the rocky hills, symbolizing the need for safety and protection. The imagery of a dove nesting in a secure place highlights the importance of finding peace amidst chaos, reflecting the urgency of their situation.
How can we apply Jeremiah 48:28 to our lives today?
This verse encourages us to recognize when we need to leave harmful situations or environments. Just as the Moabites were urged to seek safety, we should be willing to make difficult choices for our well-being and spiritual health. It reminds us to prioritize safety and peace, especially in times of crisis, and to be vigilant about our surroundings.
What does the dove symbolize in Jeremiah 48:28?
In Jeremiah 48:28, the dove symbolizes peace, safety, and security. Doves are often associated with gentleness and the idea of finding refuge. By urging the Moabites to be like a dove nesting in a secure place, Jeremiah emphasizes the need for them to seek safety away from the impending chaos and destruction.
Why does Jeremiah tell the Moabites to leave their cities?
Jeremiah instructs the Moabites to leave their cities as a response to the impending judgment and destruction they face. The cities represent a place of danger and chaos, and by fleeing to the rocks, they are encouraged to find a safer environment. This call reflects the seriousness of their situation and the necessity of taking immediate action to avoid disaster.
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