Jeremiah 49:27

"I will set fire to the walls of Damascus; it will consume the fortresses of Ben-hadad."

Study Bible

I will set fire
The phrase "I will set fire" is a declaration of divine judgment. In the Hebrew text, the word for "fire" is "אֵשׁ" (esh), symbolizing destruction and purification. Fire in the Bible often represents God's judgment and cleansing power. This imagery is consistent with other prophetic writings where fire is used to depict God's wrath against sin and rebellion. The act of setting fire indicates an irreversible judgment, emphasizing the seriousness of the offense and the certainty of its consequences.

to the walls of Damascus
Damascus, one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world, was a significant city in ancient Syria. The "walls of Damascus" symbolize the city's strength and defense. Historically, Damascus was a powerful city-state and a center of trade and culture. By targeting the walls, God is declaring that no human fortification can withstand His judgment. This serves as a reminder of the futility of relying on human strength and defenses against divine will.

it will consume
The word "consume" in Hebrew is "אָכַל" (akal), which means to eat or devour. This conveys the totality of the destruction that will befall Damascus. The imagery of consumption suggests that the judgment will be thorough and complete, leaving nothing untouched. It reflects the idea that God's judgment is not partial but all-encompassing, affecting every aspect of the city and its people.

the fortresses of Ben-Hadad
Ben-Hadad was a title used by several kings of Aram-Damascus, similar to the use of "Pharaoh" in Egypt. The "fortresses of Ben-Hadad" refer to the strongholds and military might associated with these kings. Historically, Ben-Hadad was an adversary of Israel, often engaging in conflicts with the northern kingdom. By mentioning Ben-Hadad, the prophecy highlights the downfall of a long-standing enemy of God's people. It serves as a reminder of God's sovereignty over nations and His ability to bring down even the mightiest of rulers and their defenses.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Jeremiah
A major prophet in the Old Testament, known for his prophecies concerning the judgment of God upon nations, including Israel and its neighbors.

2. Damascus
The capital city of Syria, historically significant and often mentioned in the Bible as a center of power and influence in the ancient Near East.

3. Ben-Hadad
A title used by several Syrian kings, indicating a lineage or dynasty that ruled in Damascus. The name means "son of Hadad," with Hadad being a storm and rain god in ancient Semitic religion.

4. Fire
Symbolically used in the Bible to represent God's judgment and purification. In this context, it signifies the destruction that God will bring upon Damascus.

5. Fortresses
Represent the strength and security of a city. The destruction of these fortresses indicates the complete overthrow of Damascus's power and defenses.

Teaching Points

God's Sovereignty Over Nations
God is in control of all nations and their destinies. His judgments are just and serve His divine purposes.

The Consequences of Sin
Nations and individuals who persist in sin and rebellion against God will face His righteous judgment.

The Certainty of God's Word
Prophecies in the Bible, such as those concerning Damascus, demonstrate the reliability and truth of God's Word.

The Call to Repentance
Understanding God's judgment should lead us to repentance and a renewed commitment to live according to His will.

The Role of Prophets
Prophets like Jeremiah serve as God's messengers, calling people to awareness of their spiritual state and the need for change.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the prophecy against Damascus in Jeremiah 49:27 reflect God's sovereignty over all nations?

2. In what ways can the destruction of Damascus serve as a warning to modern nations and individuals about the consequences of sin?

3. How do the prophecies in Isaiah 17 and Amos 1:3-5 complement the message in Jeremiah 49:27?

4. What can we learn from the role of prophets like Jeremiah in communicating God's message to His people?

5. How can we apply the lessons from Jeremiah 49:27 to our personal lives, particularly in terms of repentance and obedience to God?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Isaiah 17
This chapter also prophesies the downfall of Damascus, emphasizing the theme of divine judgment against nations that oppose God.

Amos 1:3-5
Amos prophesies against Damascus, highlighting the transgressions of the city and the impending judgment from God.

2 Kings 13:3
This passage mentions the oppression of Israel by the Arameans under the rule of Ben-Hadad, providing historical context for the judgment pronounced in Jeremiah.