Jeremiah 49:7

Concerning Edom, this is what the LORD of Hosts says: "Is there no longer wisdom in Teman? Has counsel perished from the prudent? Has their wisdom decayed?

Study Bible

Concerning Edom, this is what the LORD of Hosts says:
Edom, a nation descended from Esau, Jacob's brother, often found itself in conflict with Israel. The "LORD of Hosts" emphasizes God's sovereignty and power over all nations, including Edom. This introduction sets the stage for a divine pronouncement, highlighting the seriousness and authority of the message. The historical enmity between Edom and Israel is rooted in Genesis 25:23, where God foretells the struggle between the two nations.

Is there no longer wisdom in Teman?
Teman was a city in Edom known for its wise men, as referenced in Obadiah 1:8-9. The rhetorical question implies a loss of wisdom, suggesting that Edom's renowned understanding and counsel have vanished. This could be seen as a judgment against their pride and self-reliance, as wisdom is often associated with humility and the fear of the Lord (Proverbs 9:10).

Has counsel perished from the prudent?
The prudent, those who are typically wise and discerning, are depicted as having lost their ability to provide sound advice. This reflects a broader theme in Scripture where human wisdom fails in the face of divine judgment (1 Corinthians 1:19-20). It underscores the futility of relying on human insight apart from God.

Has their wisdom decayed?
The decay of wisdom suggests a moral and spiritual decline, not just an intellectual one. This aligns with the biblical principle that true wisdom is rooted in righteousness and the knowledge of God (James 3:13-17). The decay could also symbolize the impending downfall of Edom, as their lack of wisdom leads to their destruction, fulfilling prophecies like those in Obadiah.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Edom
A nation descended from Esau, Jacob's brother, often in conflict with Israel. Known for its wisdom and strategic location.

2. Teman
A city or region in Edom, renowned for its wise men. The name is often used to represent the whole of Edom.

3. The LORD of Hosts
A title for God emphasizing His sovereignty and command over the heavenly armies.

4. Wisdom
A valued trait in ancient cultures, often associated with the ability to make sound decisions and provide good counsel.

5. Jeremiah
A prophet called by God to deliver messages of judgment and hope to the nations, including Edom.

Teaching Points

The Fallibility of Human Wisdom
Human wisdom, no matter how esteemed, can fail when it is not aligned with God's truth. Edom's reliance on its own understanding led to its downfall.

The Sovereignty of God
God's judgment on Edom demonstrates His control over nations and His ability to humble the proud. We must recognize His authority in our lives.

The Importance of Seeking Godly Counsel
True wisdom comes from God. We should seek His guidance and counsel in all aspects of life, rather than relying solely on human insight.

The Consequences of Pride
Edom's pride in its wisdom and strength led to its judgment. We must guard against pride and remain humble before God.

The Role of Prophets
Prophets like Jeremiah were used by God to deliver messages of warning and hope. We should heed the messages of Scripture as God's word to us today.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the historical context of Edom's relationship with Israel enhance our understanding of Jeremiah 49:7?

2. In what ways can we see the consequences of relying on human wisdom in today's world?

3. How can we ensure that we are seeking God's wisdom in our daily decisions?

4. What are some practical steps we can take to guard against pride in our personal and spiritual lives?

5. How can the messages of the prophets, like Jeremiah, be applied to modern-day situations and challenges?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Obadiah 1:8-9
This passage also speaks of the destruction of Edom and the loss of wisdom from Teman, reinforcing the theme of divine judgment.

Proverbs 3:5-7
Highlights the importance of trusting in the Lord rather than relying solely on human wisdom, which connects to the decay of wisdom in Edom.

Isaiah 29:14
Discusses the futility of human wisdom in the face of God's plans, similar to the situation in Edom.

Job 2:11
Mentions Eliphaz the Temanite, one of Job's friends, indicating the historical reputation of Teman for wisdom.

1 Corinthians 1:19-20
Paul speaks of God making the wisdom of the world foolish, a New Testament parallel to the Old Testament theme of divine wisdom versus human wisdom.