Jeremiah 47:2
Thus saith the LORD; Behold, waters rise up out of the north, and shall be an overflowing flood, and shall overflow the land, and all that is therein; the city, and them that dwell therein: then the men shall cry, and all the inhabitants of the land shall howl.
Jeremiah 47:2 · King James Version
Meaning
The verse "Thus saith the LORD; Behold, waters rise up out of the north, and shall be an overflowing flood, and shall overflow the land, and all that is therein; the city, and them that dwell therein: then the men shall cry, and all the inhabitants of the land shall howl." is a message from the Lord warning of impending disaster. The imagery of waters rising up out of the north symbolizes a powerful force that will overtake the land, causing great devastation. The overflowing flood represents a catastrophe of immense proportions that will impact everything in its path, including the city and its inhabitants. The cries and howls of the men and all the inhabitants of the land illustrate the fear and distress that will be felt when the disaster strikes. This verse serves as a stark reminder of the consequences of disobedience and the importance of heeding the warnings of the Lord.
Theological Overview
Theological interpretation of this verse from the book of Jeremiah reveals a powerful message from the LORD about impending judgment. The mention of waters rising up out of the north symbolizes a destructive force that will come upon the land. In biblical context, the north often represents a place of darkness and chaos. The overflowing flood signifies a complete and overwhelming judgment that will cover the entire land, affecting both the city and its inhabitants. The cries and howls of the people point to the devastation and fear that will grip the hearts of all who witness this disaster. This verse serves as a warning to those who have turned away from God and His ways, reminding them of the consequences of disobedience. It is a call to repentance and a reminder of the importance of following the will of the LORD.
Jeremiah 47:2 in other translations
American Standard Version
Thus saith Jehovah: Behold, waters rise up out of the north, and shall become an overflowing stream, and shall overflow the land and all that is therein, the city and them that dwell therein; and the men shall cry, and all the inhabitants of the land shall wail.
World English Bible
Thus says Yahweh: Behold, waters rise up out of the north, and shall become an overflowing stream, and shall overflow the land and all that is therein, the city and those who dwell therein; and the men shall cry, and all the inhabitants of the land shall wail.
Douay-Rheims
Thus saith the Lord: Behold there come up waters out of the north, and they shall be as an overflowing torrent, and they shall cover the land, and all that is therein, the city and the inhabitants thereof: then the men shall cry, and all the inhabitants of the land shall howl,
Geneva Bible (1599)
Thus saith the Lord, Beholde, waters rise vp out of the North, and shalbe as a swelling flood, and shall ouerflowe the land, and all that is therein, and the cities with them that dwell therein: then the men shall crie, and all the inhabitants of the land shall howle,