Jeremiah 21:4
Thus saith the LORD God of Israel; Behold, I will turn back the weapons of war that are in your hands, wherewith ye fight against the king of Babylon, and against the Chaldeans, which besiege you without the walls, and I will assemble them into the midst of this city.
Jeremiah 21:4 · King James Version
Meaning
In this verse, the LORD God of Israel is informing the people that he will intervene on their behalf in the midst of a war with the king of Babylon and the Chaldeans. The weapons of war that they are using to fight against their enemies will be turned back by God, and instead be assembled into the city where they live. This divine intervention signifies the ultimate authority and power of God to turn the tide of battle in his people's favor. By gathering the weapons into the city, God is showing that he is in control of the situation and will protect his people from their enemies. This verse serves as a reminder to the people of Israel that their trust should be in God's strength and protection, rather than in their own weapons or strategies. It is a message of hope and reassurance that God will deliver them from their enemies and bring about a resolution to the conflict.
Theological Overview
When examining the theological implications of this verse from the book of Jeremiah, we see a clear message of divine intervention in times of war and conflict. The LORD God of Israel promises to reverse the weapons of war that the people are using against their enemies, the king of Babylon and the Chaldeans. This demonstrates God's power and sovereignty over human conflicts and serves as a reminder that ultimate victory comes from the Lord. By assembling the weapons of war into the midst of the city, God is displaying his authority and control over the circumstances faced by the people. This verse can also be interpreted as a call for the people to trust in God's protection and provision in the midst of difficult situations. Overall, the theological interpretation of this passage highlights the importance of faith and reliance on God's strength in times of conflict and uncertainty.
Jeremiah 21:4 in other translations
American Standard Version
Thus saith Jehovah, the God of Israel, Behold, I will turn back the weapons of war that are in your hands, wherewith ye fight against the king of Babylon, and against the Chaldeans that besiege you, without the walls; and I will gather them into the midst of this city.
World English Bible
Thus says Yahweh, the God of Israel, Behold, I will turn back the weapons of war that are in your hands, with which you fight against the king of Babylon, and against the Chaldeans who besiege you, without the walls; and I will gather them into the midst of this city.
Douay-Rheims
Thus saith the Lord, the God of Israel: Behold I will turn back the weapons of war that are in your hands, and with which you fight against the king of Babylon, and the Chaldeans, that besiege you round about the walls: and I will gather them together in the midst of this city.
Geneva Bible (1599)
Thus saith the Lord God of Israel, Behold, I will turne backe the weapons of warre that are in your hands, wherewith ye fight against the King of Babel, and against the Caldeans, which besiege you without the walles, and I will assemble them into the middes of this citie.