King James Version
What Does Jeremiah 51:4 Mean?
“Thus the slain shall fall in the land of the Chaldeans, and they that are thrust through in her streets.”
Jeremiah 51:4 · KJV
Context
2
And will send unto Babylon fanners, that shall fan her, and shall empty her land: for in the day of trouble they shall be against her round about.
3
Against him that bendeth let the archer bend his bow, and against him that lifteth himself up in his brigandine: and spare ye not her young men; destroy ye utterly all her host.
4
Thus the slain shall fall in the land of the Chaldeans, and they that are thrust through in her streets.
5
For Israel hath not been forsaken, nor Judah of his God, of the LORD of hosts; though their land was filled with sin against the Holy One of Israel.
6
Flee out of the midst of Babylon, and deliver every man his soul: be not cut off in her iniquity; for this is the time of the LORD'S vengeance; he will render unto her a recompence.
Commentary
KJV Study CommentaryThus the slain shall fall in the land of the Chaldeans—the chalalim (חֲלָלִים, slain, pierced) will litter the land. And they that are thrust through in her streets—the Hebrew deqarim (דְּקָרִים, pierced through, stabbed) emphasizes violent death in urban combat. The streets where Babylonians walked in security and pride become scenes of slaughter.
This verse parallels what Babylon inflicted on Jerusalem (Lamentations 2:21, 4:9). The measure of judgment Babylon dealt is measured back to her (Revelation 18:6). The geographic specificity—'in the land of the Chaldeans' and 'in her streets'—emphasizes that judgment comes to Babylon's homeland, not just distant battlefields. The oppressor experiences what the oppressed suffered.
This verse parallels what Babylon inflicted on Jerusalem (Lamentations 2:21, 4:9). The measure of judgment Babylon dealt is measured back to her (Revelation 18:6). The geographic specificity—'in the land of the Chaldeans' and 'in her streets'—emphasizes that judgment comes to Babylon's homeland, not just distant battlefields. The oppressor experiences what the oppressed suffered.
KJV Study — Public Domain
Historical & Cultural Context
While Cyrus's initial conquest was relatively bloodless, subsequent Babylonian resistance brought severe reprisals. The revolts of 522 BC and 484 BC resulted in significant casualties. Xerxes I particularly devastated Babylon, destroying its fortifications and temples. Archaeological evidence shows destruction layers in Babylon from this period. The prophecy's fulfillment came progressively—initial conquest, then violent suppression of revolts, then gradual depopulation. The streets of Babylon, once filled with processions honoring Marduk and celebrating military victories, became desolate.
Reflection Questions
- How does the principle of 'measure for measure'—Babylon suffering what it inflicted—demonstrate God's justice?
- What does the specificity of 'in her streets' teach about judgment coming home to those who thought themselves secure?
- How should this verse shape our understanding that oppressors will ultimately face accountability for their violence?
Original Language Analysis
Hebrew · 6 wordsוְנָפְל֥וּ1 of 6
“shall fall”
H5307to fall, in a great variety of applications (intransitive or causative, literal or figurative)
כַּשְׂדִּ֑ים4 of 6
“of the Chaldeans”
H3778a kasdite, or descendant of kesed; by implication, a chaldaean (as if so descended); also an astrologer (as if proverbial of that people
וּמְדֻקָּרִ֖ים5 of 6
“and they that are thrust through”
H1856to stab; by analogy, to starve; figuratively, to revile
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 51:4 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 51:4 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge