Jeremiah 47:1
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Jeremiah 47:1
1 The word of the LORD that came to Jeremiah the prophet against the Philistines, before that Pharaoh smote Gaza.
Chapter Context
Jeremiah 47 is a prophetic oracle chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of obedience, wisdom, faith. Written during the final years of Judah and early exile (c. 627-580 BCE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: Prophesied during Judah's final years as Babylon became the dominant power.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-7: Development of key themes
This chapter is significant because it foreshadows Christ's work through typology and prophetic elements. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within Jeremiah and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
Jeremiah 47:1
1 The word of the LORD that came to Jeremiah the prophet against the Philistines, before that Pharaoh smote Gaza.
Analysis
The word of the LORD that came to Jeremiah the prophet against the Philistines, before that Pharaoh smote Gaza (אֲשֶׁר־הָיָה דְבַר־יְהוָה אֶל־יִרְמְיָהוּ הַנָּבִיא אֶל־פְּלִשְׁתִּים בְּטֶרֶם יַכֶּה פַרְעֹה אֶת־עַזָּה)—The superscription establishes divine origin (davar YHWH, word of the LORD) and prophetic authority (hannavi, the prophet). Beterem (before) indicates Jeremiah prophesied prior to historical fulfillment, validating his prophetic credentials.
Gaza, one of five Philistine city-states, frequently appears in judgment oracles (Amos 1:6-7, Zephaniah 2:4, Zechariah 9:5). The phrase yakkeh Pharaoh (Pharaoh smote) likely references Pharaoh Neco's campaign (c. 609 BC) after Josiah's death at Megiddo, though some scholars suggest Pharaoh Hophra's later actions. Regardless, Egypt's temporary ascendancy would yield to Babylon's dominance.
Historical Context
The Philistines occupied five coastal cities (Gaza, Ashkelon, Ashdod, Ekron, Gath) and had been Israel's perennial enemies since the judges period. Pharaoh Neco II (610-595 BC) briefly controlled the Levant after defeating Josiah in 609 BC, before Nebuchadnezzar defeated him at Carchemish (605 BC).
Reflection
- Why does Scripture emphasize that prophecy came "before" fulfillment?
- How do the oracles against foreign nations (chapters 46-51) demonstrate God's universal sovereignty?
- What does Pharaoh's temporary success followed by Babylon's dominance teach about trusting geopolitical power?
Word Studies
- Prophet: נָבִיא (Navi) H5030 - Prophet, spokesman
Cross-References
- Parallel theme: Jeremiah 25:20, Genesis 10:19, 1 Kings 4:24