Topical Encyclopedia
The prophetic declarations concerning Moab and Ammon are found primarily in the Old Testament, where these nations are frequently mentioned in the context of divine judgment due to their enmity and hostility towards Israel. The prophecies against Moab and Ammon are significant as they reflect God's justice and sovereignty over all nations, not just Israel.
MoabMoab, a nation descended from Lot through his elder daughter (
Genesis 19:37), was located east of the Dead Sea. The Moabites were often in conflict with Israel, and their idolatry and pride led to several prophetic judgments against them.
1.
Isaiah 15-16: The prophet Isaiah delivers a lament over Moab, foretelling its destruction.
Isaiah 15:1 states, "An oracle concerning Moab: Ar in Moab is ruined, destroyed in a night! Kir in Moab is ruined, destroyed in a night!" The prophecy continues with vivid imagery of desolation and mourning, emphasizing the totality of Moab's downfall.
2.
Jeremiah 48: Jeremiah's prophecy against Moab is one of the most extensive, detailing the reasons for judgment, including Moab's arrogance and false security.
Jeremiah 48:42 declares, "Moab will be destroyed as a nation because he vaunted himself against the LORD." The chapter concludes with a promise of restoration, indicating God's mercy even in judgment.
3.
Ezekiel 25:8-11: Ezekiel prophesies against Moab for mocking Judah, stating that God will execute judgments upon Moab, and they will know that He is the LORD.
AmmonAmmon, also descended from Lot through his younger daughter (
Genesis 19:38), was situated northeast of Moab. The Ammonites, like the Moabites, were often adversaries of Israel and were condemned for their actions against God's people.
1.
Jeremiah 49:1-6: Jeremiah's prophecy against Ammon begins with a rhetorical question about the inheritance of Gad, highlighting Ammon's encroachment on Israelite territory.
Jeremiah 49:4 warns, "Why do you boast of your valleys, your valleys so fruitful, O faithless daughter? You trust in your riches and say, ‘Who can come against me?’" The prophecy concludes with a promise of restoration for the Ammonites.
2.
Ezekiel 25:1-7: Ezekiel condemns Ammon for rejoicing over the destruction of the temple and the exile of Judah.
Ezekiel 25:7 states, "therefore I will stretch out My hand against you and give you as plunder to the nations. I will cut you off from the peoples and exterminate you from the countries. I will destroy you, and you will know that I am the LORD."
3.
Amos 1:13-15: The prophet Amos denounces Ammon for their brutal military campaigns, particularly their atrocities against Gilead.
Amos 1:14 proclaims, "So I will kindle a fire in the walls of Rabbah to consume its citadels amid war cries on the day of battle, amid a storm on the day of tempest."
The prophecies against Moab and Ammon serve as a testament to God's righteous judgment against nations that oppose His people and His purposes. These declarations also underscore the themes of divine retribution and eventual restoration, reflecting the broader biblical narrative of justice and redemption.