Jeremiah 49:28

Concerning Kedar and the kingdoms of Hazor, which Nebuchadnezzar king of Babylon defeated, this is what the LORD says: "Rise up, advance against Kedar, and destroy the people of the east!

Study Bible

Concerning Kedar and the kingdoms of Hazor
Kedar was a nomadic tribe descended from Ishmael, known for their tents and flocks (Genesis 25:13, Isaiah 21:16-17). Hazor, in this context, refers to a region or group of settlements in the Arabian desert, not the Canaanite city. These groups were known for their wealth and trade, often living in relative isolation. Their mention here highlights their impending judgment and the reach of Babylon's power.

which Nebuchadnezzar king of Babylon defeated
Nebuchadnezzar II was a powerful Babylonian king who expanded his empire significantly. His campaigns against various nations, including those in the Arabian Peninsula, were part of his strategy to control trade routes and resources. This historical context underscores the fulfillment of God's judgment through a powerful earthly ruler, demonstrating God's sovereignty over nations.

this is what the LORD says
This phrase introduces a divine oracle, emphasizing that the message is not merely a human prediction but a declaration from God. It underscores the prophetic authority of Jeremiah and the certainty of the events described. The use of "LORD" (YHWH) signifies the covenant-keeping God of Israel, who is also sovereign over all nations.

“Rise up, advance against Kedar
The command to "rise up" and "advance" indicates a call to action, often used in military contexts. It suggests urgency and divine initiative in executing judgment. The focus on Kedar highlights their vulnerability despite their wealth and nomadic lifestyle, which they might have thought provided security.

and destroy the people of the east!
The "people of the east" refers to various tribes and nations east of Israel, including Kedar and Hazor. The command to "destroy" indicates total defeat, reflecting the comprehensive nature of divine judgment. This phrase connects to other biblical prophecies where God uses nations to execute His judgment (Isaiah 13:17, Ezekiel 25:4). It also foreshadows the ultimate judgment and the establishment of God's kingdom, where all nations will be accountable to Him.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Kedar
A nomadic tribe descended from Ishmael, known for their tents and flocks. They were skilled in archery and lived in the Arabian desert.

2. Hazor
A region or group of settlements associated with Kedar, possibly located in the Arabian desert. Not to be confused with the Canaanite city of Hazor in northern Israel.

3. Nebuchadnezzar
The king of Babylon, known for his conquests and the Babylonian exile of the Jews. He was a powerful ruler used by God to execute judgment on various nations.

4. The LORD (Yahweh)
The covenant God of Israel, who speaks through the prophet Jeremiah to pronounce judgment on Kedar and Hazor.

5. The People of the East
A term often used to describe various nomadic tribes living east of Israel, including Kedar and Hazor.

Teaching Points

God's Sovereignty Over Nations
The passage demonstrates God's control over all nations, using even powerful rulers like Nebuchadnezzar to fulfill His purposes.

Judgment and Justice
God's judgment on Kedar and Hazor serves as a reminder of His justice. No nation is beyond His reach or exempt from His righteous standards.

The Role of Prophecy
Prophecies like this one in Jeremiah serve to warn and call nations to repentance, showing God's desire for righteousness.

Trust in God's Plan
Believers can trust that God is working out His plan, even when it involves difficult or challenging circumstances.

The Importance of Obedience
The call to "arise, go up to Kedar" emphasizes the need for obedience to God's commands, even when they involve confronting difficult situations.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the judgment against Kedar and Hazor reflect God's sovereignty over all nations, and how can this understanding impact our view of current world events?

2. In what ways does the prophecy against Kedar and Hazor demonstrate God's justice, and how should this influence our understanding of His character?

3. How can the role of Nebuchadnezzar as an instrument of God's judgment inform our perspective on how God uses leaders and nations today?

4. What lessons can we learn from the obedience required in the command to "arise, go up to Kedar," and how can we apply this to our own lives?

5. How do the connections to other scriptures, such as Isaiah 21 and Genesis 25, enhance our understanding of the historical and spiritual context of Jeremiah 49:28?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Isaiah 21:13-17
This passage also speaks of judgment against Arabia, including Kedar, highlighting the theme of divine retribution against nations.

Genesis 25:13-16
Lists the descendants of Ishmael, including Kedar, providing background on their origins and significance.

Psalm 120:5
Mentions Kedar in a context of distress, reflecting the tension between Israel and its neighbors.

Jeremiah 25:23-24
Lists Kedar among the nations to be judged, reinforcing the prophetic theme of God's sovereignty over all nations.