Old Testament
Jeremiah 51:1
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 bring judgment upon Babylon, a powerful nation that has opposed Him and His people.
- Author
- Jeremiah the prophet, with Baruch
- Written
- Around 600 BC
- Genre
- Prophecy
- Original Audience
- Judah before and during the Babylonian exile
This is what the LORD says: 'I am going to stir up a destroying wind against Babylon and against those who live among those who rise up against me.'
Thus saith the LORD; Behold, I will raise up against Babylon, and against them that dwell in the midst of them that rise up against me, a destroying wind;
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, God declares His intention to bring judgment upon Babylon, a powerful nation that has opposed Him and His people. The 'destroying wind' symbolizes a force of destruction that will sweep through Babylon, indicating that God will raise up a powerful force to bring about its downfall. This message serves as a warning to those who oppose God and His plans. The mention of those who dwell among the rebellious suggests that even those who live in Babylon, who may not directly oppose God, will also face consequences for their association with such a corrupt system. This verse emphasizes God's sovereignty and His ability to enact justice against nations and individuals who defy Him. It reassures believers that God is aware of the injustices in the world and will act decisively against them, ultimately fulfilling His purposes and protecting His people.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Jeremiah 51:1 to your life
This verse reminds us that God is aware of the injustices and opposition we face. It encourages us to remain faithful and trust in God's ultimate justice. We should avoid aligning ourselves with corrupt systems and instead seek to live in a way that honors God, knowing He will protect and vindicate His people.
Curated for this public verse page. Jeremiah Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Jeremiah 51:1 mean?
Jeremiah 51:1 conveys God's intention to bring judgment against Babylon, a nation that has opposed Him. The 'destroying wind' symbolizes a powerful force that will lead to Babylon's downfall, serving as a warning to those who defy God.
What is the significance of the 'destroying wind' in Jeremiah 51:1?
The 'destroying wind' in Jeremiah 51:1 represents a force of destruction that God will raise against Babylon. It signifies God's power to enact judgment and bring about the collapse of corrupt systems.
Who does God refer to in Jeremiah 51:1 when mentioning 'those who dwell among them'?
In Jeremiah 51:1, 'those who dwell among them' refers to individuals living in Babylon who may not directly oppose God but are part of a corrupt system. They will also face consequences for their association with Babylon.
How does Jeremiah 51:1 relate to God's justice?
Jeremiah 51:1 illustrates God's awareness of injustices and His commitment to enact justice. It reassures believers that God will act decisively against evil and protect His people from corruption.

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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