Jeremiah 47:7
How can it be quiet, seeing the LORD hath given it a charge against Ashkelon, and against the sea shore? there hath he appointed it.
Original Language Analysis
Cross References
Historical Context
Ashkelon's archaeological record confirms violent destruction in the late 7th or early 6th century BCE, consistent with Babylonian conquest. Excavations reveal a destruction layer with evidence of fire, along with Babylonian-period pottery and artifacts indicating occupation change. The city's strategic coastal location made it important for controlling trade routes and access to Egypt, explaining Babylon's interest in subduing it thoroughly.
The phrase "the sea shore" (or "seacoast") encompasses Philistine territories along the Mediterranean. These coastal cities controlled maritime trade and provided potential naval bases or points of Egyptian influence. Babylonian strategy required neutralizing coastal strongholds to prevent Egyptian interference or rebellion supplied by sea. The systematic campaign against coastal cities appears in Babylonian records and aligns with Jeremiah's description of prolonged, thorough conquest.
This concluding verse of the oracle against Philistia (47:1-7) emphasizes divine sovereignty—a theme throughout Jeremiah's oracles against the nations (chapters 46-51). Each nation faces judgment for specific sins under God's appointed time and means. The Philistines, who had oppressed Israel for centuries and worshiped false gods, now face the same divine justice Israel experienced. God's impartiality demonstrates His universal moral governance: all nations stand accountable before Him.
Questions for Reflection
- How does recognizing that historical events occur under divine appointment affect our understanding of current world events?
- In what ways should God's sovereign control over judgment encourage both holy fear and ultimate trust in His purposes?
- What does the complete fulfillment of prophecy against ancient nations teach about the certainty of God's future judgments?
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Analysis & Commentary
How can it be quiet, seeing the LORD hath given it a charge against Ashkelon, and against the sea shore? there hath he appointed it. God Himself answers the plea from verse 6, explaining why the sword cannot yet be sheathed. "How can it be quiet" (eikh tishqoti, אֵיךְ תִּשְׁקֹטִי) poses a rhetorical question: cessation is impossible because divine commission remains unfulfilled. The sword acts under orders; it cannot rest until completing its assigned task.
"The LORD hath given it a charge" (vaYHVH tzivvah, וַיהוָה צִוָּה) uses the verb צָוָה (tzavah) meaning to command, commission, or appoint. This is the same verb used for God's commands to Israel—authoritative, binding instruction that must be obeyed. The sword has received divine orders "against Ashkelon, and against the sea shore"—specific targets including both the city and the coastal region. Until these targets face complete judgment, the sword must continue its work.
"There hath he appointed it" (sham yedah, שָׁם יְעָדָהּ) uses יָעַד (yaad), meaning to appoint, designate, or assign. This verb emphasizes purposeful divine determination—God has assigned the sword to specific tasks against specific targets. The final word "there" (שָׁם, sham) reinforces geographic specificity: the coastal regions and Philistine cities are the appointed location. This verse reveals crucial theology: historical events—even violent conquest—occur under divine sovereignty. Nothing happens by chance; God appoints times, places, and instruments for His purposes.