Jeremiah 46:9
Come up, ye horses; and rage, ye chariots; and let the mighty men come forth; the Ethiopians and the Libyans, that handle the shield; and the Lydians, that handle and bend the bow.
Jeremiah 46:9 · King James Version
Meaning
This verse from the book of Nahum in the Old Testament of the Bible, is a call to arms and a declaration of impending war. It summons the horses, chariots, and mighty men to prepare for battle. The mention of specific groups such as the Ethiopians, Libyans, and Lydians, who are known for their skill in using shields and bows, adds to the imagery of a powerful and diverse army assembling for conflict. The verse sets the stage for a fierce and intense battle, where different nations come together to fight. This passage serves as a reminder of the brutal realities of war and the strength and skill required to engage in it. It also symbolizes the idea of nations coming together for a common cause, whether it be for conquest or defense.
Theological Overview
In this verse, the call to action is vividly depicted with the imagery of horses and chariots being summoned to rage, and mighty men from Ethiopia, Libya, and Lydia being called to handle their shields and bows. The theological interpretation of this verse could be seen as a representation of the coming battle or conflict, where various nations are being called upon to ready themselves for war. The mention of Ethiopians, Libyans, and Lydians could be symbolic of the diverse array of nations that will be involved in this conflict, emphasizing the scale and magnitude of the impending battle. Furthermore, the mention of shields and bows highlights the military preparedness required to engage in warfare, emphasizing the importance of being well-equipped for the challenges ahead. Overall, this verse serves as a call to arms, rallying the forces to prepare for the upcoming battle, underscoring the importance of readiness and unity in times of conflict.
Jeremiah 46:9 in other translations
American Standard Version
Go up, ye horses; and rage, ye chariots; and let the mighty men go forth: Cush and Put, that handle the shield; and the Ludim, that handle and bend the bow.
World English Bible
Go up, you horses; and rage, you chariots; and let the mighty men go out: Cush and Put, who handle the shield; and the Ludim, who handle and bend the bow.
Douay-Rheims
Get ye up on horses, and glory in chariots, and let the valiant men come forth, the Ethiopians, and the Libyans that hold the shield, and the Lydians that take, and shoot arrows.
Geneva Bible (1599)
Come vp, ye horses, and rage ye charets, and let the valiant men come foorth, the blacke Mores, and the Lybians that beare the shield, and the Lydians that handle and bend the bowe.