Jeremiah 48:24
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Jeremiah 48:24
24 And upon Kerioth, and upon Bozrah, and upon all the cities of the land of Moab, far or near.
Chapter Context
Jeremiah 48 is a prophetic oracle chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of obedience, judgment, righteousness. 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 6-12: Development of key themes
- Verses 13-20: Central message and teachings
- Verses 21-47: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it provides guidance for worship and spiritual devotion. 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 48:24
24 And upon Kerioth, and upon Bozrah, and upon all the cities of the land of Moab, far or near.
Analysis
And upon Kerioth, and upon Bozrah, and upon all the cities of the land of Moab, far or near (וְעַל־קְרִיּוֹת וְעַל־בָּצְרָה וְעַל כָּל־עָרֵי אֶרֶץ־מוֹאָב הָרְחֹקוֹת וְהַקְּרֹבוֹת)—Qeriyot (cities/Kerioth) was a major Moabite center, possibly the capital (Amos 2:2). Botsrah (fortress/sheepfold) represents southern Moab. The summary phrase 'far or near' (harechoqot vehaqrovot) emphasizes totality—distance provides no escape from divine judgment.
This comprehensive statement concludes the city catalog (vv. 21-24), moving from specific locations to universal application. Paul uses similar logic: 'There is no distinction; for all have sinned' (Romans 3:22-23). Geographic, economic, or military distinctions become irrelevant before God's impartial justice. Whether capital or village, fortress or farm, all stand equally accountable.
Historical Context
Kerioth appears in Amos 2:2 as a target of divine judgment: 'I will send a fire upon Moab, and it shall devour the palaces of Kerioth.' Bozrah (distinct from Edomite Bozrah) represented Moab's southern extent. The phrase 'far or near' indicates Babylon's thoroughness—the entire nation from northern to southern boundaries faced destruction. Archaeological evidence confirms widespread destruction of Moabite sites during the 6th century BC.
Reflection
- How does the phrase 'far or near' challenge assumptions that distance from centers of power or visibility might exempt from divine accountability?
- What does God's comprehensive judgment on 'all the cities' reveal about His omniscience and the impossibility of hiding from His justice?
- In what ways should the certainty of impartial divine judgment affect how we pray for and warn both prominent and obscure communities?
Cross-References
- Parallel theme: Jeremiah 48:41, Amos 2:2