Jeremiah 49:9

If grape gatherers came to you, would they not leave some gleanings? Were thieves to come in the night, would they not steal only what they wanted?

Study Bible

If grape gatherers came to you, would they not leave some gleanings?
This phrase draws on the agricultural practice of gleaning, which is rooted in the Mosaic Law (Leviticus 19:9-10; Deuteronomy 24:21). Gleaning allowed the poor and the foreigner to collect leftover crops after the harvesters had passed through. The imagery here suggests a level of mercy and provision even in judgment, contrasting with the total devastation prophesied for Edom. The reference to grape gatherers implies a natural and expected process, where some remnants are left behind, highlighting the thoroughness of God's impending judgment compared to human actions.

Were thieves to come in the night, would they not steal only what they wanted?
This phrase uses the analogy of thieves, who typically take only what they can carry or what is most valuable, leaving behind much of what they encounter. The comparison underscores the completeness of the destruction that will befall Edom, as it will be more severe than a typical robbery. Thieves act with self-interest and limitation, but God's judgment is portrayed as all-encompassing and without restraint. This imagery is echoed in Obadiah 1:5, reinforcing the theme of total desolation. The night setting suggests secrecy and surprise, elements often associated with divine judgment in biblical literature.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Jeremiah
A major prophet in the Old Testament, known for his prophecies concerning the judgment of God upon Judah and the surrounding nations.

2. Edom
A nation descended from Esau, Jacob's brother, often in conflict with Israel. Jeremiah 49:9 is part of a prophecy against Edom.

3. Grape Gatherers
Workers who harvest grapes, leaving behind some gleanings for the poor, as per the law in Leviticus.

4. Thieves
Individuals who steal, typically taking only what they need or want, leaving the rest.

5. Prophecy Against Nations
Jeremiah 49 is part of a series of prophecies against various nations, demonstrating God's sovereignty over all peoples.

Teaching Points

God's Judgment is Complete
Unlike human actions, which often leave remnants, God's judgment is thorough and complete. This serves as a warning to those who oppose Him.

The Mercy of God
The imagery of gleaning reflects God's provision and mercy, even in judgment. He leaves room for repentance and restoration.

The Sovereignty of God
God's control over nations and their destinies is evident. Believers can trust in His ultimate plan and justice.

The Call to Repentance
The prophecy serves as a call to repentance, urging individuals and nations to turn back to God before judgment comes.

The Importance of Obedience
The reference to gleaning laws highlights the importance of obeying God's commands, which are designed for the welfare of all.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the imagery of grape gatherers and thieves in Jeremiah 49:9 illustrate the nature of God's judgment compared to human actions?

2. In what ways does the prophecy against Edom in Jeremiah 49 relate to the broader theme of God's sovereignty over nations?

3. How can the concept of gleaning, as seen in Leviticus 19:9-10, inform our understanding of God's provision and mercy in times of judgment?

4. What lessons can we learn from the complete destruction prophesied against Edom about the consequences of persistent disobedience to God?

5. How can we apply the principles of God's justice and mercy in Jeremiah 49:9 to our personal lives and communities today?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Obadiah 1:5
This verse parallels Jeremiah 49:9, using similar imagery to describe the complete destruction that will come upon Edom.

Leviticus 19:9-10
The law concerning gleaning, which provides for the poor and the foreigner, is referenced in the imagery of grape gatherers.

Proverbs 6:30-31
Discusses the actions of a thief, providing insight into the nature of theft and its consequences.