Old Testament
Jeremiah 50:12
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 is speaking about the impending disgrace of Babylon, symbolized as a mother to its people.
- Author
- Jeremiah the prophet, with Baruch
- Written
- Around 600 BC
- Genre
- Prophecy
- Original Audience
- Judah before and during the Babylonian exile
But your mother will be utterly disgraced — the nation that gave you birth will be put to shame. She will become the least of all nations — a wilderness, a dry and barren desert.
Your mother shall be sore confounded; she that bare you shall be ashamed: behold, the hindermost of the nations shall be a wilderness, a dry land, and a desert.
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, God is speaking about the impending disgrace of Babylon, symbolized as a mother to its people. The imagery of a barren wilderness highlights the total desolation that will come upon the nation. Babylon, once powerful and influential, will be reduced to nothing, reflecting the consequences of its actions and rebellion against God. The shame and confusion that will come upon Babylon serve as a warning about the fate of nations that turn away from righteousness. This verse emphasizes the idea that no nation is beyond the reach of God's judgment, and it serves as a reminder of the importance of humility and obedience to divine authority.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Jeremiah 50:12 to your life
This verse encourages us to reflect on the consequences of our actions, both individually and as a community. It serves as a reminder to remain humble and aligned with God's will, as pride and rebellion can lead to downfall. We should strive to build a foundation of righteousness in our lives and societies.
Curated for this public verse page. Jeremiah Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Jeremiah 50:12 mean?
Jeremiah 50:12 speaks about the disgrace of Babylon, depicted as a mother to its people. It highlights the nation's impending desolation and serves as a warning about the consequences of turning away from God.
What is the significance of Babylon being called a mother in Jeremiah 50:12?
In Jeremiah 50:12, Babylon is referred to as a mother to symbolize its role as the origin of its people and its former power. The disgrace and shame it faces reflect the downfall of a once-great nation due to its rebellion against God.
What does the imagery of a wilderness mean in Jeremiah 50:12?
The imagery of a wilderness in Jeremiah 50:12 signifies total desolation and barrenness. It illustrates the complete ruin that will come upon Babylon as a result of its actions and serves as a metaphor for the consequences of sin.
What themes are present in Jeremiah 50:12?
Jeremiah 50:12 encompasses themes of judgment, desolation, and shame. It emphasizes the consequences of sin and the importance of humility and obedience to God.

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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