Jeremiah 51:11 Meaning and Explanation
“Make bright the arrows; gather the shields: the LORD hath raised up the spirit of the kings of the Medes: for his device is against Babylon, to destroy it; because it is the vengeance of the LORD, the vengeance of his temple.”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →God raises up Median kings to fulfill His purpose of destroying Babylon in vengeance for desecration of His temple.
The Context of Jeremiah 51:11
God raises the Median kings as His instrument to destroy Babylon and avenge His temple.
What Does Jeremiah 51:11 Mean?
A call to military preparation is issued: arrows are sharpened, shields gathered. But the true subject is revealed: God has 'raised up the spirit of the kings of the Medes'—a historical reference to the Median-Persian alliance that overthrew Babylon. Human military action is set within God's sovereign purpose.
The phrase 'his device is against Babylon' identifies the real actor and motivation behind events. It is 'the vengeance of the LORD, the vengeance of his temple'—God avenges His sacred house, desecrated by Babylon. Vengeance here means restoring justice and order after violation.
Frequently Asked Questions About Jeremiah 51:11
What does Jeremiah 51:11 mean?
God raises up Median kings to fulfill His purpose of destroying Babylon in vengeance for desecration of His temple.
What is the context of Jeremiah 51:11?
God raises the Median kings as His instrument to destroy Babylon and avenge His temple.