Old Testament

Jeremiah 49:38

Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.

ClearClear Bible Translation

I will set my throne in Elam and wipe out its king and officials," says the LORD.

Compare translations
KJVKing James Version

And I will set my throne in Elam, and will destroy from thence the king and the princes, saith the LORD.

What Jeremiah 49:38 means

Plain-English insight for readers

In this verse, God declares His intention to establish His authority in Elam, a region that was known for its power and influence. By saying He will set His throne there, God indicates that He will take control and rule over the area. The mention of wiping out the king and officials signifies a complete overthrow of the existing leadership, demonstrating God's sovereignty over nations and their rulers. This act serves as a warning to those who oppose Him, showing that no earthly power can stand against His will. The context of this prophecy reflects God's judgment on Elam for its actions and the consequences of turning away from Him. It emphasizes that God is not only a protector of His people but also a judge of nations, holding them accountable for their behavior. This verse reminds us of the ultimate authority of God in all matters, including political and social structures, and His ability to bring about change according to His divine plan.

How to apply Jeremiah 49:38 to your life

This verse encourages us to recognize God's authority in our lives and the world around us. It reminds us that no matter how powerful a leader or nation may seem, God is ultimately in control. We should seek to align our lives with His will and trust in His plans, especially during times of uncertainty.

Curated for this public verse page. Jeremiah Summary

Explore more of the Bible

Learn the Bible through its people and places

Get to know the people in Scripture through illustrated stories, and explore the places where they lived and traveled.

A painting of Samuel anointing the young David in Bethlehem

Illustrated scene from David's story: Samuel Anoints David (1 Samuel 16:1–13)

Meet the people of the Bible

Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.

David

An old color photograph of Hebron on a hillside above olive groves.

Photo: Photochrom print, Library of Congress Prints and Photographs Division (LCCN 2002724987). License: Public domain in the United States; Library of Congress states no known restrictions on publication. Source. Location: Hebron, West Bank; print preserved by the Library of Congress. Resized for the web.

Explore the places of the Bible

See where biblical events happened, why each place matters, and what archaeology helps us understand.

Hebron

Where Abraham lived and buried Sarah, and where David was first made king.

Get full access with one subscription

Explore the people and places of the Bible. Read summaries of every book, with images and clear explanations covering every chapter. Access all these features and our Bible study tools with one subscription.

See Plans

Ask AI about Jeremiah 49:38

Ask a question about this verse and get a clear answer, with Bible references you can read for yourself.

Every Bible book, explained chapter by chapter

Explore summaries of every book of the Bible, with images and easy-to-understand explanations covering every chapter.

Keep studying Jeremiah 49:38

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 49:38 mean?

Jeremiah 49:38 expresses God's intention to establish His authority in Elam by setting His throne there and removing its king and officials. This signifies God's control over nations and serves as a warning against opposing His will.

What is the significance of God's throne in Elam in Jeremiah 49:38?

The mention of God's throne in Elam indicates His sovereignty and rule over the region. It highlights that God can intervene in political matters and bring about the downfall of leaders who do not align with His purposes.

What themes are present in Jeremiah 49:38?

Key themes in Jeremiah 49:38 include God's sovereignty, divine judgment, and the overthrow of political authority. The verse emphasizes God's control over nations and the consequences of turning away from Him.

How can we apply Jeremiah 49:38 to our lives today?

Jeremiah 49:38 reminds us to recognize God's ultimate authority in our lives and the world. It encourages us to trust in His plans and align ourselves with His will, especially in uncertain times.

Daily Verse — straight to your inbox

A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.