Jeremiah 50:31
Behold, I am against thee, O thou most proud, saith the Lord GOD of hosts: for thy day is come, the time that I will visit thee.
Jeremiah 50:31 · King James Version
Meaning
This verse from the Book of Jeremiah delivers a powerful message from the Lord GOD of hosts to the prideful and arrogant. The statement "Behold, I am against thee, O thou most proud" serves as a warning that God will stand in opposition to those who exalt themselves above others. The phrase "for thy day is come, the time that I will visit thee" speaks to the impending judgment and retribution that awaits the proud individual or nation. In this context, the verse serves as a reminder of the consequences of hubris and the importance of humility before God. It conveys the idea that those who boast and rely on their own strength will ultimately face divine intervention and correction. The verse can be seen as a call to repentance and a plea for humility, as God's visitation can bring both judgment and the opportunity for reconciliation.
Theological Overview
In this verse, God declares his opposition to those who are prideful and boastful. The phrase "O thou most proud" refers to the arrogance and haughtiness of the people or nation being addressed. This pride is seen as a sin before God, as it denotes a lack of humility and reverence towards Him. The Lord GOD of hosts proclaims that the time has come for judgment to be executed upon the proud individual or nation. The term "visit" here carries the connotation of punishment or retribution for their sinful ways. This verse serves as a warning to those who exalt themselves above others and fail to acknowledge God's sovereignty. It highlights the importance of humility and submission before the Almighty, as pride goes before destruction (Proverbs 16:18). Through this theological interpretation, we can learn the significance of staying humble and recognizing God's authority in our lives.
Jeremiah 50:31 in other translations
American Standard Version
Behold, I am against thee, O thou proud one, saith the Lord, Jehovah of hosts; for thy day is come, the time that I will visit thee.
World English Bible
Behold, I am against you, you proud one, says the Lord, Yahweh of Armies; for your day has come, the time that I will visit you.
Douay-Rheims
Behold I come against thee, O proud one, saith the Lord the God of hosts: for thy day is come, the time of thy visitation.
Geneva Bible (1599)
Beholde, I come vnto thee, O proude man, saith the Lord God of hostes: for thy day is come, euen the time that I will visite thee.