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Jeremiah 51:31

One post shall run to meet another, and one messenger to meet another, to shew the king of Babylon that his city is taken at one end,

Jeremiah 51:31 · King James Version

Meaning

This verse, found in the book of Jeremiah in the Bible, describes a scene of urgency and efficiency in delivering a message to the king of Babylon. The image of one post running to meet another and one messenger to meet another symbolizes a swift communication system put in place to inform the king that his city has been taken at one end. This verse highlights the importance of timely and accurate communication, especially in times of crisis or war. It emphasizes the need for information to be relayed quickly and effectively to those in positions of power so that appropriate actions can be taken. The verse serves as a reminder of the crucial role that communication plays in the functioning of societies and the exercise of authority. In the broader context of the book of Jeremiah, this verse also serves as a warning of the consequences of disobedience and the impending destruction of Babylon due to its sinful ways.

Theological Overview

One interpretation of this verse focuses on the swift communication within Babylon when news of the city's downfall reaches the king. The image of messengers running to meet each other emphasizes the urgency and importance of the message being delivered. From a theological perspective, this verse can be seen as a reminder of the temporal nature of earthly kingdoms and the inevitability of their decline. Despite Babylon's power and grandeur, it is ultimately vulnerable to defeat. This passage can serve as a reflection on the transient nature of human accomplishments and the importance of humility and reliance on a higher power. The word studies in this verse may highlight the significance of the actions described, such as "run," "meet," and "shew," to convey the sense of rapid movement and urgency in delivering the news of Babylon's downfall.

Jeremiah 51:31 in other translations

American Standard Version

One post shall run to meet another, and one messenger to meet another, to show the king of Babylon that his city is taken on every quarter:

World English Bible

One runner will run to meet another, and one messenger to meet another, to show the king of Babylon that his city is taken on every quarter:

Douay-Rheims

One running post shall meet another, and messenger shall meet messenger: to tell the king of Babylon that his city is taken from one end to the other:

Geneva Bible (1599)

A post shall runne to meete the post, and a messenger to meete the messenger, to shew the King of Babel, that his citie is taken on a side thereof,