King James Version
What Does Jeremiah 48:47 Mean?
“Yet will I bring again the captivity of Moab in the latter days, saith the LORD. Thus far is the judgment of Moab.”
Jeremiah 48:47 · KJV
Context
45
They that fled stood under the shadow of Heshbon because of the force: but a fire shall come forth out of Heshbon, and a flame from the midst of Sihon, and shall devour the corner of Moab, and the crown of the head of the tumultuous ones. tumultuous: Heb. children of noise
46
Woe be unto thee, O Moab! the people of Chemosh perisheth: for thy sons are taken captives, and thy daughters captives. captives, and: Heb. in captivity, etc
47
Yet will I bring again the captivity of Moab in the latter days, saith the LORD. Thus far is the judgment of Moab.
Commentary
KJV Study CommentaryDespite comprehensive judgment, God promises to 'bring again the captivity of Moab in the latter days.' This surprising grace mirrors His treatment of other nations (49:6, 39). God's judgments on nations aren't His final word - restoration is possible. This anticipates the gospel's reach to all nations through Christ. No people are beyond redemption's scope.
KJV Study — Public Domain
Historical & Cultural Context
This promise looks eschatologically toward the inclusion of Gentile nations in God's kingdom. Moab's restoration symbolizes gospel universality.
Reflection Questions
- How does God's promise to restore even judged nations reflect the gospel's reach?
- What does this teach about the extent of God's redemptive purposes?
Original Language Analysis
Hebrew · 11 wordsוְשַׁבְתִּ֧י1 of 11
“Yet will I bring again”
H7725to turn back (hence, away) transitively or intransitively, literally or figuratively (not necessarily with the idea of return to the starting point);
שְׁבוּת2 of 11
“the captivity”
H7622exile, concretely, prisoners; figuratively, a former state of prosperity
הַיָּמִ֖ים5 of 11
“days”
H3117a day (as the warm hours), whether literal (from sunrise to sunset, or from one sunset to the next), or figurative (a space of time defined by an asso
עַד8 of 11
H5704as far (or long, or much) as, whether of space (even unto) or time (during, while, until) or degree (equally with)
מִשְׁפַּ֥ט10 of 11
“is the judgment”
H4941properly, a verdict (favorable or unfavorable) pronounced judicially, especially a sentence or formal decree (human or (participant's) divine law, ind
Study Guide
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 48:47 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.
Cross-References
Verses related to Jeremiah 48:47 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge