Old Testament
Jeremiah 48:4
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 conveys a message of devastation regarding Moab, a nation that had been a historical enemy of Israel.
- Author
- Jeremiah the prophet, with Baruch
- Written
- Around 600 BC
- Genre
- Prophecy
- Original Audience
- Judah before and during the Babylonian exile
Moab is shattered. Her children cry out in anguish.
Moab is destroyed; her little ones have caused a cry to be heard.
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, the prophet Jeremiah conveys a message of devastation regarding Moab, a nation that had been a historical enemy of Israel. The term 'shattered' indicates complete destruction, suggesting that Moab's strength and pride have been utterly broken. The mention of 'her children cry out in anguish' highlights the suffering of the innocent, particularly the young ones who are affected by the consequences of war and conflict. This imagery evokes a sense of deep sorrow and loss, emphasizing that the impact of Moab's downfall extends beyond the battlefield to the lives of its most vulnerable citizens. The verse serves as a reminder of the harsh realities of judgment and the emotional toll that such events take on families and communities. It reflects the broader theme of divine justice, where nations that oppose God's will face dire consequences, and it calls attention to the human cost of national conflicts.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Jeremiah 48:4 to your life
This verse encourages us to reflect on the consequences of our actions and the impact they have on others, especially the vulnerable. It reminds us to seek peace and justice in our communities, understanding that conflict often leads to suffering for those who are least responsible.
Curated for this public verse page. Jeremiah Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Jeremiah 48:4 mean?
Jeremiah 48:4 describes the complete destruction of Moab, a nation that opposed Israel. The verse highlights the suffering of its innocent children, emphasizing the emotional toll of war and the consequences of divine judgment.
What is the significance of Moab in Jeremiah 48:4?
Moab represents a historical enemy of Israel, and its destruction symbolizes the consequences of opposing God's will. The verse serves as a warning about the fate of nations that engage in conflict and injustice.
What does 'shattered' mean in Jeremiah 48:4?
In Jeremiah 48:4, 'shattered' indicates total destruction and loss of strength for Moab. It conveys the idea that the nation has been completely broken down, both physically and spiritually.
Why are the children mentioned in Jeremiah 48:4?
The mention of children in Jeremiah 48:4 highlights the innocent victims of war and conflict. It underscores the idea that the impact of national destruction extends to those who are most vulnerable and not responsible for the conflict.

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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