Jeremiah 49:29

They will take their tents and flocks, their tent curtains and all their goods. They will take their camels for themselves. They will shout to them: 'Terror is on every side!'

Study Bible

They will take their tents and flocks
This phrase indicates a nomadic lifestyle, typical of the Bedouin tribes in the ancient Near East. Tents and flocks were essential for survival, representing both shelter and livelihood. The taking of these items suggests a complete plundering, leaving the people without their basic means of living. This reflects the judgment pronounced by God through Jeremiah, as the nomadic tribes were often involved in raids and conflicts with settled communities.

their tent curtains and all their goods
Tent curtains were crucial for privacy and protection from the elements, symbolizing the personal and domestic life of the people. The mention of "all their goods" implies a thorough and devastating loss, emphasizing the totality of the judgment. This can be seen as a fulfillment of divine retribution for the sins and idolatry of the people, as God often used foreign nations to execute His judgment.

They will take their camels for themselves
Camels were valuable assets in the ancient world, used for transportation and trade across the desert. The seizure of camels indicates a significant economic blow, as they were essential for the nomadic lifestyle and commerce. This act of taking camels highlights the thoroughness of the invaders' plundering and serves as a metaphor for the stripping away of the people's independence and ability to sustain themselves.

They will shout to them: ‘Terror is on every side!’
This phrase captures the psychological impact of the invasion, with "Terror is on every side" being a common expression in Jeremiah's prophecies (e.g., Jeremiah 6:25, 20:3). It conveys a sense of inescapable fear and panic, illustrating the overwhelming nature of God's judgment. The repetition of this phrase throughout Jeremiah underscores the theme of divine retribution and the inevitable consequences of turning away from God. It also serves as a warning to the people of Judah and Israel about the seriousness of their covenantal unfaithfulness.

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 in Arabia, not to be confused with the Canaanite city of the same name. It was associated with Kedar and known for its wealth and trade.

3. Nebuchadnezzar
The king of Babylon who was used by God as an instrument of judgment against various nations, including Kedar and Hazor.

4. Jeremiah
The prophet who delivered God's messages of judgment and hope to the nations, including the prophecy against Kedar and Hazor.

5. Babylonian Invasion
The event where Nebuchadnezzar's forces would attack and plunder the wealth of Kedar and Hazor, fulfilling God's judgment.

Teaching Points

God's Sovereignty in Judgment
God uses nations and leaders to accomplish His purposes, even when they are unaware of His plans. This reminds us of His ultimate control over history.

The Fleeting Nature of Earthly Wealth
The wealth and security of Kedar and Hazor were temporary. We should not place our trust in material possessions but in God, who is eternal.

The Reality of Divine Justice
God's justice is impartial and inevitable. It serves as a warning to live righteously and align ourselves with His will.

The Call to Repentance
Prophecies of judgment are also calls to repentance. We should examine our lives and turn from sin to avoid spiritual downfall.

The Assurance of God's Word
The fulfillment of prophecy demonstrates the reliability of God's Word. We can trust His promises and warnings as true and certain.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the prophecy against Kedar and Hazor illustrate the sovereignty of God over nations?

2. In what ways can the downfall of Kedar serve as a warning against placing our trust in material wealth?

3. How does the phrase "Terror is on every side" reflect the consequences of ignoring God's warnings? Can you find other instances in the Bible where this phrase is used?

4. What lessons can we learn from the fulfillment of prophecies in the Bible regarding the reliability of God's Word?

5. How can we apply the call to repentance found in Jeremiah's prophecies to our personal lives today?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Isaiah 21:16-17
This passage also speaks of the downfall of Kedar, emphasizing the brevity of their glory and the reduction of their warriors.

Psalm 120:5
The psalmist laments dwelling among the tents of Kedar, symbolizing a place of strife and distance from peace.

Genesis 25:13
Lists Kedar as one of the sons of Ishmael, establishing the tribe's lineage and historical context.

Jeremiah 6:25
The phrase "Terror is on every side" is used to describe the pervasive fear and destruction that accompanies God's judgment.