Old Testament
Jeremiah 49:38
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, God declares His intention to establish His authority in Elam, a region that was known for its power and influence.
- Author
- Jeremiah the prophet, with Baruch
- Written
- Around 600 BC
- Genre
- Prophecy
- Original Audience
- Judah before and during the Babylonian exile
I will set my throne in Elam and wipe out its king and officials," says the LORD.
And I will set my throne in Elam, and will destroy from thence the king and the princes, saith the LORD.
Verse Analysis
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.
Related Bible verses
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
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.

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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