King James Version

What Does Jeremiah 48:41 Mean?

“Kerioth is taken, and the strong holds are surprised, and the mighty men's hearts in Moab at that day shall be as the heart of a woman in her pangs. Kerioth: or, The cities”

Context

They shall howl, saying, How is it broken down! how hath Moab turned the back with shame! so shall Moab be a derision and a dismaying to all them about him. back: Heb. neck

For thus saith the LORD; Behold, he shall fly as an eagle, and shall spread his wings over Moab.

Kerioth is taken, and the strong holds are surprised, and the mighty men's hearts in Moab at that day shall be as the heart of a woman in her pangs. Kerioth: or, The cities

And Moab shall be destroyed from being a people, because he hath magnified himself against the LORD.

Fear, and the pit, and the snare, shall be upon thee, O inhabitant of Moab, saith the LORD.

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Commentary

Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers

(41) **Kerioth.**—(See Note on Jeremiah 48:24.) Here the word is used with the article, and should probably be translated, as in the margin, *the cities, *as painting the wide-spread devastation that was to come on all the fortresses. **As the heart of a woman in her pangs.**—See Notes on Jeremiah 30:6; Isaiah 13:8; Isaiah 21:3. The precise phrase, however, occurs only here and in Jeremiah 49:22.

Charles John Ellicott (1819–1905). Public Domain.

Historical Context

This verse is found in the book of Jeremiah. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.

Theological Significance

Jeremiah 48:41 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.