Jeremiah 21:5 Meaning and Explanation
“And I myself will fight against you with an outstretched hand and with a strong arm, even in anger, and in fury, and in great wrath.”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →God Himself will fight against Jerusalem with divine power and fierce judgment.
The Context of Jeremiah 21:5
God emphasizes His personal and active role against the city.
What Does Jeremiah 21:5 Mean?
The 'outstretched hand' and 'strong arm' are divine metaphors drawn from Israel's liberation story, but now inverted—they represent God's personal opposition rather than His deliverance. The intensity of His anger, fury, and wrath emphasizes the severity of judgment.
God's direct involvement marks this as covenant judgment. The Lord shifts from describing Babylon as an instrument to placing Himself directly as Jerusalem's adversary.
Jeremiah 21:5 in the Original Language
פְנִים (penim), 'face' — to 'set one's face against' means to turn divine opposition directly toward someone with intention and resolve.
Frequently Asked Questions About Jeremiah 21:5
What does Jeremiah 21:5 mean?
God Himself will fight against Jerusalem with divine power and fierce judgment.
What is the context of Jeremiah 21:5?
God emphasizes His personal and active role against the city.