God’s judgment upon the proud power of Egypt was inevitable and on full display in their defeat.
“Why have I seen it? They are terrified, They are drawing back, And their mighty men are defeated And have taken refuge in flight, Without facing back; Terror is on every side!” declares the LORD (v.5). In this passage, the prophet Jeremiah vividly portrays a scene of fear and sudden retreat among the Egyptian forces. The rhetorical question “Why have I seen it?” emphasizes Jeremiah’s astonishment at witnessing their once-confident army become overwhelmed. The words “they are terrified” highlight the depth of their dread, stressing that even the strongest warriors could not stand their ground. According to the historical record, this prophecy likely targets the Egyptian army of Pharaoh Necho II, who reigned from 610 BC to 595 BC. His military campaigns often involved conflicts with the Babylonian empire, but here Jeremiah prophesies Egypt’s failure in the face of divine judgment.
The setting of Jeremiah 46 focuses on Egypt, a powerful ancient civilization situated along the fertile banks of the Nile River in northeastern Africa. Well known for its monumental architecture and rich cultural legacy, Egypt held an important place in the Near East. However, Jeremiah’s message indicates that despite its strategic location and massive influence, Egypt’s heroes would be forced to flee. The phrase “without facing back” illustrates that the retreat was so desperate, they could not even regroup or regain formation. Their hurried departure underscores the supreme authority of the LORD over earthly kingdoms, reminding all nations of the sovereignty of God.
“Terror is on every side” suggests that the Egyptians were surrounded by fear, hemmed in with no exit or safe haven. This mirrors other scriptural themes reminding believers that human power inevitably falters when opposed by God (Luke 1:51). Jeremiah’s prophecy here also anticipates the truth later fulfilled in Jesus Christ, who holds authority that transcends earthly might, offering deliverance to those who trust in Him (Matthew 28:18).
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Jeremiah 46:5 meaning
“Why have I seen it? They are terrified, They are drawing back, And their mighty men are defeated And have taken refuge in flight, Without facing back; Terror is on every side!” declares the LORD (v.5). In this passage, the prophet Jeremiah vividly portrays a scene of fear and sudden retreat among the Egyptian forces. The rhetorical question “Why have I seen it?” emphasizes Jeremiah’s astonishment at witnessing their once-confident army become overwhelmed. The words “they are terrified” highlight the depth of their dread, stressing that even the strongest warriors could not stand their ground. According to the historical record, this prophecy likely targets the Egyptian army of Pharaoh Necho II, who reigned from 610 BC to 595 BC. His military campaigns often involved conflicts with the Babylonian empire, but here Jeremiah prophesies Egypt’s failure in the face of divine judgment.
The setting of Jeremiah 46 focuses on Egypt, a powerful ancient civilization situated along the fertile banks of the Nile River in northeastern Africa. Well known for its monumental architecture and rich cultural legacy, Egypt held an important place in the Near East. However, Jeremiah’s message indicates that despite its strategic location and massive influence, Egypt’s heroes would be forced to flee. The phrase “without facing back” illustrates that the retreat was so desperate, they could not even regroup or regain formation. Their hurried departure underscores the supreme authority of the LORD over earthly kingdoms, reminding all nations of the sovereignty of God.
“Terror is on every side” suggests that the Egyptians were surrounded by fear, hemmed in with no exit or safe haven. This mirrors other scriptural themes reminding believers that human power inevitably falters when opposed by God (Luke 1:51). Jeremiah’s prophecy here also anticipates the truth later fulfilled in Jesus Christ, who holds authority that transcends earthly might, offering deliverance to those who trust in Him (Matthew 28:18).