Jeremiah 48:22

And upon Dibon, and upon Nebo, and upon Beth–diblathaim,

Jeremiah 48:22 (KJV)

Context

Jeremiah 48 records the Lord’s judgment against Moab, a nation descended from Lot (Genesis 19:37). This verse is part of a longer list of Moabite cities that would experience divine judgment (Jeremiah 48:21-24). The preceding line names Holon, Jahazah, and Mephaath; the following line names Kiriathaim, Bethgamul, and Bethmeon. Jeremiah 48:22 continues that sequence with Dibon, Nebo, and Beth-diblathaim.

Meaning

The verse names three specific Moabite cities as targets of judgment. Dibon was a significant city known for idol worship; its fall from glory is described earlier in the chapter (Jeremiah 48:18). Nebo is also mentioned earlier, where it is said to be laid waste and brought to shame (Jeremiah 48:1). Beth-diblathaim is identified with Almon-diblathaim, a place from Israel’s wilderness wanderings (Numbers 33:46-47). The repetition of “upon” in the KJV emphasizes that judgment falls directly and personally on each place.

Biblical connections

The listing of individual cities demonstrates that God’s judgment is comprehensive and inescapable, reaching every specific location and community. The chapter’s broader context describes Moab’s destruction because of pride, arrogance, idolatry, and contempt for God and His people. The judgment is not vague or general but touches real cities with real people. The chapter’s conclusion holds out hope of restoration for Moab in the latter days (Jeremiah 48:47), showing that God’s judgment is not His final word.

Application

The certainty of God’s justice means that no place of refuge or pride can protect a nation or people from the consequences of their sin. The verse calls readers to consider the response its setting demands—repentance, faith, endurance, hope, or worship—without claiming more than the text establishes.