Jeremiah 46:6 meaning

The backdrop of this verse unfolds a significant moment in biblical history, where the prophet Jeremiah addresses the impending defeat of Egypt at the hands of the Babylonians. This prophecy, delivered during the conflict between Pharaoh Neco II and Nebuchadnezzar, warns that despite the Egyptians' impressive numbers and resources, their efforts would ultimately be in vain. The Egyptian military was likened to the floods of the Nile, rising with pride and ambition, but like many grand ambitions, it was destined for failure.

In essence, the verse warns the Babylonians against allowing any Egyptian soldier to escape—a call for absolute conquest. This reflects God’s sovereignty and the fallibility of earthly powers, which cannot outperform the divine plan. The imagery of Egyptians' disastrous retreat serves as a reminder that reliance on past glories or mere strength against God’s ordinance leads to inevitable downfall. This brings to light the ultimate truth about human plans against divine will, affirming the sentiment that the “swift shall not flee away,” illustrating that God's judgment prevails regardless of human effort. The reference can be found in Jeremiah 46:6.