Jeremiah 48:4

Moab will be shattered; her little ones will cry out.

Study Bible

Moab will be shattered;
Moab, a nation descended from Lot, often found itself in conflict with Israel. The prophecy of Moab's destruction is a recurring theme in the Old Testament, reflecting its historical enmity with Israel. The term "shattered" indicates a complete and devastating defeat, aligning with other prophecies against Moab found in Isaiah 15-16 and Amos 2:1-3. This judgment is part of a broader divine retribution against nations that opposed God's people. Archaeological evidence, such as the Mesha Stele, provides insight into Moab's historical context and its interactions with Israel. The shattering of Moab can also be seen as a type of the ultimate judgment against all nations that oppose God's kingdom.

her little ones will cry out.
The phrase "her little ones" likely refers to the children of Moab, symbolizing the nation's vulnerability and the widespread impact of its downfall. The crying out of the little ones underscores the depth of the calamity, affecting even the most innocent and defenseless. This imagery is reminiscent of the lamentations found in other prophetic books, such as Lamentations 2:11, where the suffering of children highlights the severity of divine judgment. The crying out can also be seen as a call for mercy, reflecting the broader biblical theme of God's compassion for the innocent amidst judgment.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Moab
An ancient kingdom located east of the Dead Sea, often in conflict with Israel. Moab is frequently mentioned in the Bible as a nation that turned away from God and faced His judgment.

2. Jeremiah
A major prophet in the Old Testament, known for his messages of warning and judgment to the nations, including Israel and its neighbors like Moab.

3. The Little Ones
This phrase likely refers to the vulnerable and innocent members of Moabite society, such as children, who will suffer as a result of the nation's downfall.

4. The Shattering of Moab
This event symbolizes the complete destruction and judgment that God pronounces upon Moab due to their pride and idolatry.

Teaching Points

The Consequences of Pride
Moab's downfall serves as a warning against pride and self-reliance. God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble.

God's Sovereignty Over Nations
The prophecy against Moab demonstrates God's control over all nations and His ability to execute judgment according to His will.

The Impact of Sin on the Innocent
The mention of "little ones" crying out reminds us that sin and judgment often have far-reaching effects, impacting even those who seem innocent.

The Call to Repentance
Just as Moab was given warnings, we are called to heed God's Word and turn from sin to avoid judgment.

Hope in God's Justice
While the judgment is severe, it assures us that God is just and will not let sin go unpunished.

Bible Study Questions

1. What does the prophecy against Moab teach us about the nature of God's judgment?

2. How can we guard against the pride that led to Moab's downfall in our own lives?

3. In what ways does the suffering of the "little ones" in Moab challenge us to consider the broader impact of our actions?

4. How does understanding God's sovereignty over nations affect our view of current world events?

5. What steps can we take to ensure we are living in repentance and humility before God, avoiding the fate of Moab?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Isaiah 15-16
These chapters also prophesy the downfall of Moab, highlighting the consistency of God's message through different prophets.

Psalm 60:8
Moab is referred to as a "washbasin," symbolizing its subjugation and lowly status in God's plan.

Zephaniah 2:8-11
This passage speaks of God's judgment on Moab and Ammon for their pride and insults against His people.