Old Testament
Jeremiah 50:42
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
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.
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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.
What Jeremiah 50:42 means
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
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Keep studying Jeremiah 50:42
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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 50:42 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.
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