Jeremiah 51:56
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Jeremiah 51:56
56 Because the spoiler is come upon her, even upon Babylon, and her mighty men are taken, every one of their bows is broken: for the LORD God of recompences shall surely requite.
Chapter Context
Jeremiah 51 is a prophetic oracle chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of worship, prayer, 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 6-12: Development of key themes
- Verses 13-20: Central message and teachings
- Verses 21-64: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it offers practical wisdom for godly living in a fallen world. 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 51:56
56 Because the spoiler is come upon her, even upon Babylon, and her mighty men are taken, every one of their bows is broken: for the LORD God of recompences shall surely requite.
Analysis
Because the spoiler is come upon her, even upon Babylon (כִּי בָא עָלֶיהָ עַל־בָּבֶל שׁוֹדֵד, ki va aleha al-Bavel shoded)—The Spoiler (Cyrus, but ultimately God) has arrived. And her mighty men are taken (וְנִלְכְּדוּ גִבּוֹרֶיהָ, v'nilk'du gibboreha)—Babylon's gibborim (warriors) are captured. Every one of their bows is broken (חִתְּתָה קַשְּׁתוֹתָם, chittah qashtotam)—Their bows (primary weapon) are shattered, echoing the breaking of Elam's bow (49:35). Military impotence follows moral bankruptcy.
For the LORD God of recompences shall surely requite (כִּי אֵל גְּמֻלוֹת יְהוָה שַׁלֵּם יְשַׁלֵּם, ki El gemulot YHWH shalem y'shalem)—El gemulot (God of recompenses/retributions) will surely repay. The doubled verb shalem y'shalem (repay, repay) intensifies: God will absolutely, thoroughly recompense. This is lex talionis on cosmic scale: Babylon broke others' bows; theirs are broken. They captured nations; they're captured. This isn't vindictiveness but justice—the moral order requires proportional response to evil.
Historical Context
Babylon's military establishment was neutralized—captured, disbanded, or absorbed into Persian forces. The 'God of recompenses' operated through Cyrus but was the true Agent. Daniel 5:25-28's 'MENE, MENE, TEKEL, UPHARSIN' announced this divine accounting: weighed, found wanting, divided—divine recompense executed.
Reflection
- What does 'God of recompenses' reveal about divine justice and moral order in the universe?
- How does the breaking of bows symbolize the futility of trusting in military strength apart from God?
- In what ways should the certainty of divine recompense ('surely requite') affect how Christians respond to injustice?
Word Studies
- Lord: יְהוָה / אֲדֹנָי (YHWH / Adonai) H3068 - The LORD / Lord
Cross-References
- References Lord: Jeremiah 51:6, 51:24, 51:48
- Parallel theme: Deuteronomy 32:35, Psalms 46:9, 76:3, Isaiah 59:18, Habakkuk 2:8