Jeremiah 46:24

The Daughter of Egypt will be put to shame; she will be delivered into the hands of the people of the north."

Study Bible

The Daughter of Egypt
This phrase personifies Egypt as a young woman, a common biblical metaphor that conveys vulnerability and impending judgment. In Hebrew, "bat" (daughter) often symbolizes a city or nation. Egypt, historically a powerful empire, is depicted here as a daughter, suggesting a fall from power and protection. This imagery evokes the idea of Egypt's reliance on its own strength and gods, which ultimately leads to its downfall. The "Daughter of Egypt" is a reminder of the transient nature of earthly power and the futility of trusting in anything other than God.

will be put to shame
The Hebrew word "bosh" means to be ashamed or confounded. This shame is not merely an emotional state but a public disgrace and humiliation. In the context of ancient Near Eastern culture, honor and shame were pivotal societal values. Egypt's shame signifies a complete reversal of its status and reputation. This serves as a divine judgment against Egypt's pride and idolatry, illustrating the biblical principle that those who exalt themselves will be humbled (Matthew 23:12).

she will be delivered
The term "delivered" in Hebrew is "nathan," meaning to give or hand over. This indicates a transfer of power and control, emphasizing God's sovereignty in the affairs of nations. Egypt's fate is not a result of mere political maneuvering but a divine act of judgment. This reflects the biblical theme that God raises up and brings down nations according to His purposes (Daniel 2:21).

into the hands of the people of the north
Historically, "the people of the north" refers to the Babylonians, who were God's instrument of judgment against Egypt. The north was often associated with danger and invasion in the biblical narrative, as many of Israel's enemies came from that direction. This phrase underscores the inevitability of God's judgment and the fulfillment of His prophetic word. It serves as a warning to all nations that defiance against God leads to destruction, while also offering hope that God's justice will ultimately prevail.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Daughter of Egypt
This term is a metaphorical expression referring to the nation of Egypt. In biblical literature, nations are often personified as daughters. Egypt, a powerful and ancient civilization, is depicted here as vulnerable and subject to defeat.

2. People of the North
This phrase typically refers to the Babylonians, who were known for their military prowess and were a significant threat to many nations during the time of Jeremiah. The north is often associated with danger and invasion in the prophetic literature.

3. Jeremiah
The prophet who conveyed God's messages to the nations, including warnings and judgments. He was called to be a prophet to the nations and often spoke of impending judgment due to disobedience to God.

4. Babylonian Invasion
The historical context of this prophecy is the series of invasions by Babylon, which led to the downfall of many nations, including Egypt. This event is a fulfillment of God's judgment against Egypt.

5. Shame and Deliverance
The prophecy speaks of Egypt's shame and deliverance into the hands of its enemies, highlighting the theme of divine judgment and the reversal of fortunes for those who oppose God's will.

Teaching Points

God's Sovereignty Over Nations
This passage reminds us that God is in control of all nations and their destinies. No nation, regardless of its power, is beyond God's reach or judgment.

The Consequences of Pride
Egypt's downfall serves as a warning against pride and self-reliance. Nations and individuals alike must recognize their dependence on God.

The Certainty of God's Word
The fulfillment of this prophecy demonstrates the reliability of God's word. Believers can trust that what God has spoken will come to pass.

Repentance and Humility
The shame of Egypt calls us to examine our own lives for areas of pride and to seek repentance and humility before God.

Hope in God's Justice
While this passage speaks of judgment, it also assures us that God is just and will ultimately set things right, encouraging us to trust in His justice.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the metaphor of the "Daughter of Egypt" help us understand the nature of God's judgment against nations?

2. In what ways can the downfall of Egypt serve as a warning to modern nations and individuals about the dangers of pride and self-reliance?

3. How does the prophecy of Egypt's defeat by the "people of the north" demonstrate God's sovereignty and control over historical events?

4. What are some areas in your life where you might be relying on your own strength rather than trusting in God's provision and guidance?

5. How can the themes of judgment and deliverance in Jeremiah 46:24 encourage us to live with a sense of accountability and hope in God's justice?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Isaiah 19
This chapter also contains prophecies against Egypt, emphasizing God's sovereignty over nations and His ability to humble the proud.

Ezekiel 30
Similar to Jeremiah, Ezekiel prophesies the downfall of Egypt, reinforcing the theme of divine judgment against nations that oppose God.

Jeremiah 1:14-15
These verses speak of disaster coming from the north, providing a broader context for understanding the threat posed by Babylon.