Jeremiah 46:5

Why am I seeing this? They are terrified, they are retreating; their warriors are defeated, they flee in haste without looking back; terror is on every side!" declares the LORD.

Study Bible

Why am I seeing this?
This phrase reflects a moment of divine revelation and insight. The prophet Jeremiah is given a vision of the chaos and defeat of Egypt's army. It suggests a sense of bewilderment and urgency, as if witnessing something unexpected or shocking. This rhetorical question emphasizes the suddenness and severity of the situation, drawing attention to the unfolding events as part of God's sovereign plan.

They are terrified,
The fear described here is profound and overwhelming. In the context of ancient warfare, terror often preceded defeat, as morale was crucial for victory. This fear is indicative of the psychological warfare that God uses against Egypt, fulfilling His judgment. The terror can be seen as a divine intervention, where God instills fear to accomplish His purposes, similar to how He caused confusion among Israel's enemies in other biblical accounts (e.g., Judges 7:22).

they are retreating;
The retreat signifies a breakdown in the military strategy and confidence of Egypt's forces. Historically, Egypt was a powerful nation, often seen as invincible. This retreat marks a significant turning point, highlighting the vulnerability of even the mightiest nations when they oppose God's will. It echoes the theme of divine retribution and the futility of relying on human strength against God's decrees.

their warriors are defeated,
The defeat of the warriors underscores the totality of Egypt's downfall. In ancient cultures, warriors were esteemed for their strength and bravery. Their defeat symbolizes the collapse of Egypt's military might and the failure of its gods and idols to protect them. This phrase connects to the broader biblical narrative where God consistently demonstrates His power over the nations and their false deities (e.g., Exodus 12:12).

they flee in haste without looking back;
This imagery of fleeing without looking back conveys panic and disorder. It suggests a complete rout, where the soldiers are so consumed by fear that they abandon all sense of duty and honor. This mirrors the flight of Lot's wife in Genesis 19:26, where looking back signifies attachment to the past and disobedience. Here, it emphasizes the irreversible nature of God's judgment on Egypt.

terror is on every side!”
The phrase "terror is on every side" is a recurring motif in Jeremiah, often used to describe the inescapable nature of God's judgment (e.g., Jeremiah 6:25, 20:3). It paints a picture of total encirclement by fear, leaving no avenue for escape. This comprehensive terror serves as a warning to all nations that oppose God, illustrating the completeness of His justice.

declares the LORD.
The declaration by the LORD affirms the divine authority and certainty of the prophecy. It is not merely a human prediction but a statement from God Himself, ensuring its fulfillment. This underscores the theme of God's sovereignty and His active role in the affairs of nations. The phrase also serves as a reminder of the prophetic office, where the prophet speaks not on his own behalf but as a mouthpiece for God, reinforcing the trustworthiness and seriousness of the message.

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. Egypt
The nation being addressed in this prophecy. Egypt was a powerful kingdom in the ancient world, often in conflict with Israel and Judah.

3. The LORD
The covenant name of God, Yahweh, who is speaking through the prophet Jeremiah.

4. Warriors
The Egyptian soldiers who are described as being terrified and defeated in battle.

5. Terror on Every Side
A phrase indicating the overwhelming fear and panic that has gripped the Egyptian forces.

Teaching Points

God's Sovereignty Over Nations
God is in control of all nations and their destinies. No matter how powerful a nation may seem, it is subject to God's will and judgment.

The Futility of Human Strength
Human strength and military might are ultimately futile without God's favor. True security comes from reliance on God, not on earthly power.

The Reality of Divine Judgment
God's judgment is real and inevitable for those who oppose His will. This serves as a warning to live in obedience to God.

The Importance of Repentance
Nations and individuals alike are called to repentance. Ignoring God's warnings leads to downfall and destruction.

Trust in God's Deliverance
Just as God delivered Israel from Egypt, He is able to deliver His people from any situation. Trust in His power and timing.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the defeat of the Egyptian warriors in Jeremiah 46:5 illustrate the limitations of human power without God's support?

2. In what ways can we see God's sovereignty over nations in today's world, and how should this influence our prayers for our own nation?

3. Reflect on a time when you relied on your own strength rather than God's. What was the outcome, and what did you learn from that experience?

4. How can the concept of "terror on every side" serve as a warning for those who live in opposition to God's will?

5. Compare the deliverance of Israel from Egypt in Exodus with God's promise of deliverance in other parts of Scripture. How does this encourage you in your personal walk with God?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 14
The defeat of the Egyptian army at the Red Sea is a historical parallel where God intervenes to protect His people and defeat their enemies.

Isaiah 19
Another prophecy against Egypt, highlighting God's sovereignty over nations and His ability to bring them to humility.

Psalm 33:16-17
These verses emphasize that no king is saved by the size of his army, and no warrior escapes by his great strength, reinforcing the message of Jeremiah 46:5.