Jeremiah 51:3 Meaning and Explanation
“Against him that bendeth let the archer bend his bow, and against him that lifteth himself up in his brigandine: and spare ye not her young men; destroy ye utterly all her host.”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →Warriors and soldiers are commanded to destroy Babylon's military forces completely.
The Context of Jeremiah 51:3
The command intensifies to spare none of Babylon's military forces.
What Does Jeremiah 51:3 Mean?
The command intensifies: archers are to shoot at archers, and soldiers are to attack the armored warriors ('brigandine' refers to protective armor). This back-and-forth imagery conveys total military engagement and overwhelming force. The language becomes direct and harsh, emphasizing total destruction.
'Spare ye not her young men' and 'destroy ye utterly all her host' remove any possibility of mercy or partial victory. The phrase 'all her host' emphasizes completeness—no soldiers spared, no army remaining. This reflects the biblical view that judgment is thorough and unavoidable.
Frequently Asked Questions About Jeremiah 51:3
What does Jeremiah 51:3 mean?
Warriors and soldiers are commanded to destroy Babylon's military forces completely.
What is the context of Jeremiah 51:3?
The command intensifies to spare none of Babylon's military forces.