Jeremiah 49:19 Meaning and Explanation
“Behold, he shall come up like a lion from the swelling of Jordan against the habitation of the strong: but I will suddenly make him run away from her: and who is a chosen man, that I may appoint over her? for who is like me? and who will appoint me the time? and who is that shepherd that will stand before me?”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →An invader comes suddenly and powerfully, but God will drive him back and rule Edom Himself.
The Context of Jeremiah 49:19
An invader will come but God will turn him back and assert His own rule.
What Does Jeremiah 49:19 Mean?
The lion emerging from the swollen Jordan depicts a military invader with overwhelming force and timing (the swollen river forces crossing at a particular moment). This invader seemingly conquers Edom's fortified places ('habitation of the strong'), but 'I will suddenly make him run away'—God reverses the outcome.
The rhetorical questions assert God's unique authority: no one is His equal, no one appoints His timeline, no shepherd (ruler or leader) can withstand Him. God Himself will be Edom's ruler and shepherd—a role of both judgment and ultimate sovereignty.
Jeremiah 49:19 in the Original Language
chosen (בָּחוּר bachur) — can mean 'young warrior' or 'chosen one'; here implying an elite military commander.
Frequently Asked Questions About Jeremiah 49:19
What does Jeremiah 49:19 mean?
An invader comes suddenly and powerfully, but God will drive him back and rule Edom Himself.
What is the context of Jeremiah 49:19?
An invader will come but God will turn him back and assert His own rule.