Old Testament
Jeremiah 51:55
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Because the LORD has devastated Babylon and silenced her great voice; when her waves roar like mighty waters, the sound of their voice is heard.
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Because the LORD hath spoiled Babylon, and destroyed out of her the great voice; when her waves do roar like great waters, a noise of their voice is uttered:
What Jeremiah 51:55 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, the prophet Jeremiah speaks about the judgment of God upon Babylon, a powerful nation known for its pride and oppression. The phrase 'the LORD has devastated Babylon' indicates that God has brought destruction to this once-great city, silencing its proud voice. The imagery of 'waves roaring like mighty waters' suggests the overwhelming nature of Babylon's downfall. Just as the sound of roaring waves can be powerful and intimidating, so too was Babylon's influence. However, this verse emphasizes that despite the noise and chaos, God has the ultimate authority to bring about silence and ruin. The destruction of Babylon serves as a warning to all nations about the consequences of turning away from God and relying on their own strength. It highlights the transient nature of human power and the certainty of divine judgment.
How to apply Jeremiah 51:55 to your life
This verse reminds us that no matter how powerful a person or nation may seem, they are ultimately subject to God's authority. It encourages us to remain humble and rely on God rather than our own strength. Trusting in God's plan can provide comfort during times of uncertainty.
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 51:55 mean?
Jeremiah 51:55 describes God's judgment on Babylon, illustrating how He has brought destruction to the city and silenced its once-mighty voice. The verse uses the imagery of roaring waves to convey the overwhelming nature of Babylon's downfall.
What is the significance of Babylon's destruction in Jeremiah 51:55?
The destruction of Babylon in Jeremiah 51:55 serves as a warning about the consequences of pride and oppression. It highlights that even the most powerful nations are subject to God's authority and can be brought low.
What does the phrase 'great voice' refer to in Jeremiah 51:55?
In Jeremiah 51:55, 'great voice' refers to Babylon's influence and power, which has been silenced by God's judgment. This emphasizes the idea that human strength is temporary and can be dismantled by divine intervention.
How does Jeremiah 51:55 relate to the theme of divine judgment?
Jeremiah 51:55 exemplifies divine judgment by showing how God actively brings about the downfall of a proud nation. It underscores the certainty of God's authority over human affairs and the eventual consequences of turning away from Him.
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