Introduction

The concept of judgment on Babylon is a significant theme in biblical prophecy, symbolizing God's ultimate triumph over evil and the vindication of His righteousness. Babylon, both as a historical empire and a symbolic representation of worldly opposition to God, is depicted in the Bible as an entity destined for divine judgment. This entry explores the biblical passages that address the judgment on Babylon, focusing on the prophetic books of the Old and New Testaments.

Old Testament Prophecies

1. Isaiah's Prophecies: The prophet Isaiah provides a vivid portrayal of Babylon's downfall. In Isaiah 13:19, Babylon is described as "the jewel of kingdoms, the glory of the pride of the Chaldeans," yet it is destined to become "like Sodom and Gomorrah when God overthrew them." Isaiah 14:22-23 further declares, "I will rise up against them," says the LORD of Hosts. "I will cut off from Babylon her name and survivors, her offspring and descendants," declares the LORD. "I will make her a place for owls and swamplands; I will sweep her away with the broom of destruction," declares the LORD of Hosts.

2. Jeremiah's Lamentations: Jeremiah also prophesies the judgment on Babylon, emphasizing its complete desolation. In Jeremiah 50:13, it is stated, "Because of the wrath of the LORD, she will not be inhabited but will be completely desolate. All who pass by Babylon will be appalled; they will scoff because of all her wounds." Jeremiah 51:24-26 continues, "Before your eyes I will repay Babylon and all the residents of Chaldea for all the evil they have done in Zion," declares the LORD. "Behold, I am against you, O destroying mountain, you who devastate the whole earth," declares the LORD. "I will stretch out My hand against you, roll you down from the cliffs, and make you a burnt mountain."

3. Ezekiel's Vision: Although Ezekiel's prophecies focus more on Tyre and Egypt, the judgment on Babylon is implicit in the broader context of God's judgment on the nations. Ezekiel 21:31-32 speaks of God's wrath being poured out, a theme consistent with the fate of Babylon.

New Testament Revelation

1. The Book of Revelation: The apocalyptic vision of John in the Book of Revelation presents Babylon as a symbol of the world's corrupt systems and opposition to God. Revelation 17:5 refers to Babylon as "Babylon the Great, the mother of prostitutes and of the abominations of the earth." The fall of Babylon is dramatically depicted in Revelation 18:2, "Fallen, fallen is Babylon the great! She has become a dwelling place for demons, a haunt for every unclean spirit, a hideout for every unclean bird, and a prison for every unclean and detestable beast."

2. The Finality of Judgment: Revelation 18:21 illustrates the finality of Babylon's judgment: "Then a mighty angel picked up a stone the size of a great millstone and cast it into the sea, saying: 'With such violence the great city of Babylon will be cast down, never to be seen again.'" This imagery underscores the complete and irreversible nature of Babylon's destruction.

Theological Significance

The judgment on Babylon serves as a powerful reminder of God's sovereignty and justice. It illustrates the ultimate defeat of evil and the establishment of God's kingdom. Babylon's judgment is not only a historical event but also a prophetic symbol of the end times, where God's righteousness will prevail over all forms of wickedness and rebellion. The biblical narrative of Babylon's judgment calls believers to remain faithful and to trust in God's ultimate plan for redemption and justice.