Jeremiah 6:22
Thus saith the LORD, Behold, a people cometh from the north country, and a great nation shall be raised from the sides of the earth.
Original Language Analysis
כֹּ֚ה
H3541
כֹּ֚ה
Strong's:
H3541
Word #:
1 of 13
properly, like this, i.e., by implication, (of manner) thus (or so); also (of place) here (or hither); or (of time) now
יְהוָ֔ה
the LORD
H3068
יְהוָ֔ה
the LORD
Strong's:
H3068
Word #:
3 of 13
(the) self-existent or eternal; jeho-vah, jewish national name of god
עַ֥ם
Behold a people
H5971
עַ֥ם
Behold a people
Strong's:
H5971
Word #:
5 of 13
a people (as a congregated unit); specifically, a tribe (as those of israel); hence (collectively) troops or attendants; figuratively, a flock
צָפ֑וֹן
from the north
H6828
צָפ֑וֹן
from the north
Strong's:
H6828
Word #:
8 of 13
properly, hidden, i.e., dark; used only of the north as a quarter (gloomy and unknown)
וְג֣וֹי
nation
H1471
וְג֣וֹי
nation
Strong's:
H1471
Word #:
9 of 13
a foreign nation; hence, a gentile; also (figuratively) a troop of animals, or a flight of locusts
גָּד֔וֹל
and a great
H1419
גָּד֔וֹל
and a great
Strong's:
H1419
Word #:
10 of 13
great (in any sense); hence, older; also insolent
Historical Context
Babylon rose to power in the late 7th century BC under Nebuchadnezzar, conquering the Assyrian Empire and eventually Judah. Their empire extended across the Ancient Near East, fulfilling the 'great nation' description.
Questions for Reflection
- How does God's sovereignty over pagan nations encourage believers facing powerful opposition?
- What does this verse teach about God's ability to accomplish His purposes through any means?
- How should understanding God's control over world events affect our political anxieties?
Analysis & Commentary
A people comes 'from the north country' (Babylon), described as a 'great nation' being 'raised from the sides of the earth.' The phrase 'raised' (Hebrew 'ur') suggests God's sovereign stirring up of this nation for His purposes. This mighty army serves as God's instrument of judgment, demonstrating His absolute sovereignty over all nations. Reformed theology emphasizes God's meticulous providence—even pagan empires serve His redemptive purposes. This verse also shows that distance is no obstacle to God's judgment; He can summon nations from earth's extremities to execute His will.