Old Testament

Jeremiah 50:21

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ClearClear Bible Translation

"March against the land of Merathaim and against the people of Pekod! Slaughter them and completely destroy everything behind you," says the LORD. "Carry out every command I have given you.

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KJVKing James Version

Go up against the land of Merathaim, even against it, and against the inhabitants of Pekod: waste and utterly destroy after them, saith the LORD, and do according to all that I have commanded thee.

What Jeremiah 50:21 means

Plain-English insight for readers

In this verse, God commands His people to attack the land of Merathaim and the inhabitants of Pekod. The directive is clear: they are to completely destroy everything in their path, leaving nothing behind. This reflects God's judgment against these nations for their sins. The call to action emphasizes the seriousness of God's commands and the need for obedience. The names Merathaim and Pekod symbolize places associated with rebellion and wrongdoing. The verse illustrates the theme of divine retribution, where God uses His people as instruments of judgment. It serves as a reminder that God is sovereign and will execute justice against those who oppose Him. The command to 'carry out every command' highlights the importance of following God's instructions without hesitation or deviation, reinforcing the idea that obedience is crucial in fulfilling God's will.

How to apply Jeremiah 50:21 to your life

This verse encourages us to take God's commands seriously and act decisively in our lives. It reminds us that obedience to God is essential, especially when confronting sin and injustice. We should seek to align our actions with God's will, trusting in His guidance and authority.

Curated for this public verse page. Jeremiah Summary

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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 50:21 mean?

Jeremiah 50:21 conveys God's command to attack the land of Merathaim and the people of Pekod, emphasizing total destruction as a form of divine judgment against their sins.

What is the significance of Merathaim in Jeremiah 50:21?

Merathaim represents a place associated with rebellion and wrongdoing, symbolizing the judgment that God is executing against nations that oppose Him.

What does the phrase 'carry out every command' in Jeremiah 50:21 mean?

The phrase 'carry out every command' highlights the importance of complete obedience to God's instructions, indicating that His directives should be followed without hesitation.

What themes are present in Jeremiah 50:21?

Key themes in Jeremiah 50:21 include divine judgment, the necessity of obedience to God, the destruction of evil, and the sovereignty of God over nations.

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