Behold, I will command, saith the LORD, and cause them to return to this city; and they shall fight against it, and take it, and burn it with fire: and I will make the cities of Judah a desolation without an inhabitant.
Listen! I will give the command, says the LORD, and I will bring the enemy armies back to this city. They will attack it, capture it, and burn it down. I will make all the cities of Judah empty ruins with no one living in them.
God is warning that He will bring the Babylonian army back to completely destroy Jerusalem and make all of Judah's cities empty because of the people's disobedience.
📚 Historical Context
This prophecy was given during the final siege of Jerusalem by Babylon around 588-586 BC. The Babylonian army had temporarily withdrawn from Jerusalem, giving the people false hope, but God through Jeremiah warned they would return to complete the destruction. This was God's judgment on Judah for breaking their covenant with Him, including their failure to properly free Hebrew slaves as commanded.
Explore Similar Verses
Ask the AI Assistant
Have a question about this chapter or verse? Ask below for a clear explanation.