Understanding Jeremiah 51:13

Verse Reference: Jeremiah 51:13

"O thou that dwellest upon many waters, abundant in treasures, thine end is come, and the measure of thy covetousness."

Overview of Context

Jeremiah 51 addresses the impending judgment upon Babylon, symbolizing pride and idolatry. In this particular verse, God asserts that despite the apparent strength and abundance of Babylon, its end is near due to its corrupt and greedy nature.

Commentary Insights

• Matthew Henry:

  Henry emphasizes that the "many waters" represent the multitude of nations that comprise Babylon, a city known for its riches and influence. However, the warning signals the end of such glory due to its sinful behavior, particularly its greedy desire for more.

• Albert Barnes:

  Barnes highlights how this verse contrasts the present power of Babylon with its impending judgment. He notes that "the measure of thy covetousness" speaks to God's judgment on human greed and idolatry, emphasizing that such things cannot escape divine retribution.

• Adam Clarke:

  Clarke points out that the "abundant treasures" are a double-edged sword; they symbolize both the prosperity of Babylon and the moral decay that accompanies such worldly wealth. The end of these treasures signifies a return to divine order where pride and excess will be judged.

Thematic Connections

This verse serves as a powerful reminder of the transient nature of wealth and power. The thematic connections with other scripture provide deeper meaning:

• Proverbs 11:28: "He that trusteth in his riches shall fall." This verse reinforces the futility of reliance on material wealth.
• Revelation 18:17: "For in one hour so great riches is come to nought." This reflects the swift destruction of Babylon’s riches.
• Isaiah 14:10-11: "All they shall speak and say unto thee, Art thou also become weak as we?" which echoes the downfall of powerful nations.
• Matthew 6:19-21: "Lay not up for yourselves treasures upon earth..." highlighting the danger of earthly treasures.
• Ecclesiastes 5:10: "He that loveth silver shall not be satisfied..." which resonates with the theme of insatiable greed.
• Haggai 2:8: "The silver is mine, and the gold is mine, saith the Lord of hosts." Reminding readers that all riches belong to God.
• Lamentations 3:19-20: "Remembering mine affliction and my misery, the wormwood and the gall." This correlates the consequences of greed with suffering.

Cross-Referencing Biblical Texts

For those interested in cross-referencing Biblical texts, consider the following:

• Joel 3:2: God's judgment against those who have harmed His people.
• Jeremiah 50:37: A prophecy about Babylon's destruction, further elaborating on the judgments against prideful nations.
• Mark 8:36: "For what shall it profit a man, if he shall gain the whole world, and lose his own soul?" which ties back to the warning against greed.

Conclusion

Jeremiah 51:13 serves as an important reminder of the consequences of excessive greed and the fleeting nature of wealth. The interconnected nature of scripture reveals profound truths about reliance on earthly treasures versus spiritual richness. As believers engage in comparative Bible verse analysis, they will find that the themes in this verse echo throughout the Old and New Testament, enriching their understanding and faith.