Old Testament

Jeremiah 50:42

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 describes an impending attack on Babylon.

Author
Jeremiah the prophet, with Baruch
Written
Around 600 BC
Genre
Prophecy
Original Audience
Judah before and during the Babylonian exile
CBTClear Bible Translation

They carry bows and spears. They are cruel and show no mercy. Their battle cry roars like the ocean. They ride on horses, lined up in formation like warriors ready for battle — all coming against you, daughter of Babylon.

KJVKing James Version

They shall hold the bow and the lance: they are cruel, and will not shew mercy: their voice shall roar like the sea, and they shall ride upon horses, every one put in array, like a man to the battle, against thee, O daughter of Babylon.

Verse Analysis

Plain-English insight for readers

In this verse, the prophet Jeremiah describes an impending attack on Babylon. The attackers are depicted as fierce warriors equipped with bows and spears, emphasizing their cruelty and lack of mercy. Their battle cry is compared to the roaring of the ocean, suggesting a powerful and overwhelming force. The imagery of soldiers riding horses in formation highlights their readiness and discipline as they prepare to confront Babylon. This verse serves as a warning to Babylon, symbolizing the consequences of its actions and the judgment that is about to come. It reflects the broader theme of divine retribution against nations that oppose God and His people, illustrating the seriousness of their impending downfall.

How to apply Jeremiah 50:42 to your life

This verse reminds us of the seriousness of our actions and the consequences that can follow. It encourages us to reflect on our own lives and the ways we may be opposing God's will. We should strive to act with mercy and compassion, avoiding the cruelty depicted in this passage.

Curated for this public verse page. Jeremiah Summary

Frequently Asked Questions

Quick, clear answers about this verse

What does Jeremiah 50:42 mean?

Jeremiah 50:42 describes an impending attack on Babylon by fierce warriors equipped for battle. It emphasizes the cruelty of the attackers and serves as a warning of the consequences Babylon will face for its actions.

What is the significance of 'cruel and show no mercy' in Jeremiah 50:42?

The phrase 'cruel and show no mercy' highlights the ruthless nature of the attackers coming against Babylon. It underscores the severity of the judgment that Babylon will experience due to its sins.

What does the imagery of 'battle cry roars like the ocean' suggest in Jeremiah 50:42?

The imagery of a battle cry roaring like the ocean suggests a powerful and overwhelming force. It conveys the intensity and ferocity of the attackers as they prepare to confront Babylon.

What does 'lined up in formation like warriors' mean in Jeremiah 50:42?

The phrase 'lined up in formation like warriors' indicates the discipline and readiness of the soldiers preparing for battle. It emphasizes their organized approach as they march against Babylon.

The Book of Jeremiah
Book Summary

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.

Premium

Unlock the full Jeremiah summary

Continue reading every chapter — themes, structure, and turning points.

The complete summary of Jeremiah — a chapter-by-chapter breakdown covering all 52 chapters.

What you get

Every chapter of Jeremiah summarized in clear, modern English

How each section connects — narrative flow, key themes, and turning points

Permanent access — read anytime, on any device

Best Value

Best value • Save over 90%

or

One-time purchase • Access anytime

ClearBible summaries are proprietary content and may not be copied, republished, or resold.

Checkout works as a guest. After payment, you create an account to claim your unlock.