Jeremiah 49:9

If grape gatherers come to thee, would they not leaue some gleaning grapes? If theeues by night, they will destroy till they haue enough. Jeremiah 49:9 (KJV)

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gleaning grapes? if thieves by night, they will destroy till they have enough. Jeremiah 49:9 (KJV)

“Give wings unto Moab, that it may flee and get away: for the cities thereof shall be desolate, without any to dwell therein.”

Jeremiah 49:9 is a verse from the Book of Jeremiah in the Old Testament. It specifically focuses on the nation of Moab, one of the neighboring nations of ancient Israel, and speaks of the impending destruction and desolation that would come upon Moab.

Historical Context:

Jeremiah prophesied during a tumultuous period, the decline and fall of the southern kingdom of Judah. The book contains prophecies against various nations, and Jeremiah 49 addresses the judgment that would come upon the surrounding nations, including Moab.

Moab’s Judgment:

In Jeremiah 49:9 the Lord instructs Moab to “flee and get away” by giving it wings. This metaphorical language suggests that Moab should seek refuge and escape from the imminent destruction. The cities of Moab would be left desolate, without any inhabitants.

Reason for Judgment:

The preceding verses describe Moab as prideful, secure in its own strength and prosperity. Moab had become complacent, self‑reliant, and had oppressed God’s people, the Israelites. Therefore the Lord pronounced judgment upon Moab for its pride, arrogance, and mistreatment of His chosen people.

Lessons and Applications:

Pride and self‑reliance – Moab’s downfall warns against the dangers of pride and relying solely on one’s own abilities or possessions. The Bible repeatedly emphasizes humility and dependence on God.

Oppression and mistreatment – The judgment highlights the importance of treating others with fairness and compassion. As followers of God we are called to love our neighbors and show kindness.

Consequences of sin – Moab serves as an example that persistent disobedience and wickedness bring tangible consequences. It reminds us to turn back to God, seek His forgiveness, and live according to His commands.

In summary, Jeremiah 49:9 portrays the impending judgment and desolation that would befall Moab because of its pride, arrogance, and oppression of God’s people. The passage calls believers to humility, compassion, and repentance, recognizing that God’s justice will ultimately prevail.