Jeremiah 49:16 Meaning and Explanation
“Thy terribleness hath deceived thee, and the pride of thine heart, O thou that dwellest in the clefts of the rock, that holdest the height of the hill: though thou shouldest make thy nest as high as the eagle, and I will bring thee down from thence, saith the LORD.”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →Edom's pride in its mountain fortresses deceives it into thinking no power can assault it.
The Context of Jeremiah 49:16
Edom's faith in its mountain strongholds and fearsome reputation is revealed as self-deception.
What Does Jeremiah 49:16 Mean?
Edom's geography was its great advantage: rocky, mountainous terrain with natural fortifications. The 'clefts of the rock' and 'height of the hill' made invasion difficult, breeding confidence that enemies could never reach them. 'Thy terribleness'—its fearsome reputation—reinforced this false security.
Even if Edom built its nest 'as high as the eagle,' isolation and elevation cannot protect against God's judgment. The eagle's height is poetic for ultimate security; yet God will bring Edom down. Geography and fear prove worthless against divine decree.
Jeremiah 49:16 in the Original Language
clefts (שִׁקְמֵי shikmei) — literally rocky crevices or caverns; Petra, Edom's capital, was a city carved into red cliffs.
Frequently Asked Questions About Jeremiah 49:16
What does Jeremiah 49:16 mean?
Edom's pride in its mountain fortresses deceives it into thinking no power can assault it.
What is the context of Jeremiah 49:16?
Edom's faith in its mountain strongholds and fearsome reputation is revealed as self-deception.