Jeremiah 50:17 Meaning and Explanation
“Israel is a scattered sheep; the lions have driven him away: first the king of Assyria hath devoured him; and last this Nebuchadrezzar king of Babylon hath broken his bones.”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →Israel has been like a scattered sheep, consumed by successive predators: first Assyria, then Babylon.
The Context of Jeremiah 50:17
Israel's suffering at the hands of successive empires justifies Babylon's judgment.
What Does Jeremiah 50:17 Mean?
This verse shifts perspective to review Israel's suffering. The sheep metaphor returns, but now focusing on the damage inflicted: scattered, driven away, devoured, bones broken. Israel has been the victim of consecutive empires—Assyria in the north, Babylon most recently—each taking turns exploiting the people.
The characterization of these rulers as lions emphasizes predatory power and violence. Israel's vulnerability as sheep reflects the consequences of their earlier disobedience and abandonment of covenant. Yet the recounting here provides context for why Babylon's destruction is not simply imperial retribution but also divine restoration of justice for the oppressed.
Jeremiah 50:17 in the Original Language
Sheep imagery appears frequently in Jeremiah to denote Israel's vulnerability and need for shepherding.
Frequently Asked Questions About Jeremiah 50:17
What does Jeremiah 50:17 mean?
Israel has been like a scattered sheep, consumed by successive predators: first Assyria, then Babylon.
What is the context of Jeremiah 50:17?
Israel's suffering at the hands of successive empires justifies Babylon's judgment.