Jeremiah 49:19
Behold, he shal come vp like a lyon from the swelling of Iordane against the habitation of the strong: but I wil suddenly make him runne away from her, and who is a chosen man that I may appoynt ouer her? For who is like mee? And who will appoint me the time? Who is that shepheard that will stand before mee? Jeremiah 49:19 (KJV)
This verse is part of a prophecy pronounced by the prophet Jeremiah against Edom, one of the neighboring nations of ancient Israel. In this portion the prophet describes an impending attack by Edom, comparing the assault to the approach of a lion. The phrase “swelling of Jordan” is interpreted in two ways: it may refer to the fertile lands surrounding the Jordan River, indicating a well‑watered and prosperous region, or it may be understood as the flood‑waters or the rise of the Jordan River itself. Either image underscores the force and abundance from which the aggressor is expected to emerge.
The declaration “but I will suddenly make him run away from her” emphasizes God’s sovereign power to intervene and cause even a strong, lion‑like nation to flee unexpectedly. This sudden reversal highlights that human strength is subject to divine will.
Following the anticipated defeat, God poses a series of rhetorical questions: “And who is a chosen man, that I may appoint over her?” This asks who will be qualified to rule over the land once occupied by Edom, underscoring God’s authority to appoint leaders and His interest in the governance of nations.
The final trio of questions—“for who is like me? and who will appoint me the time? and who is that shepherd that will stand before me?”—stress the uniqueness and supremacy of God. No one can compare to Him, no one can determine the timing of His actions, and no earthly shepherd or ruler can stand before Him in power.
Overall, Jeremiah 49:19 conveys that although Edom may launch a fierce attack against the strong, God will cause them to retreat. The passage reminds believers of God’s incomparable nature, His sovereign control over history, and His active involvement in the affairs of nations, including the appointment of leaders after judgment.
