Jeremiah 51:16 Meaning and Explanation
“When he uttereth his voice, there is a multitude of waters in the heavens; and he causeth the vapours to ascend from the ends of the earth: he maketh lightnings with rain, and bringeth forth the wind out of his treasures.”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →God's word controls natural forces—water, vapor, lightning, wind—demonstrating His dominion over creation.
The Context of Jeremiah 51:16
God's word controls all natural phenomena, illustrating His absolute sovereignty.
What Does Jeremiah 51:16 Mean?
The verse illustrates God's dominion through weather phenomena. When He speaks ('uttereth his voice'), waters gather in the heavens and vapor rises from earth, creating weather systems. Lightning accompanies rain; wind is released from God's 'treasures'—treated as His possession and resource. Every element of nature responds to His command.
This poetic language establishes that natural forces are under divine control and activated by His word. Since God controls the elements, He certainly controls human events and histories. The judgment on Babylon, described in military terms, is part of the same sovereign control that moves clouds and lightning.
Frequently Asked Questions About Jeremiah 51:16
What does Jeremiah 51:16 mean?
God's word controls natural forces—water, vapor, lightning, wind—demonstrating His dominion over creation.
What is the context of Jeremiah 51:16?
God's word controls all natural phenomena, illustrating His absolute sovereignty.