Jeremiah 51:31 Meaning and Explanation
“One post shall run to meet another, and one messenger to meet another, to shew the king of Babylon that his city is taken at one end,”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →Messengers rush to inform the king that his city is falling, even as he remains unaware.
The Context of Jeremiah 51:31
Messengers race to inform the king of his city's fall as the invasion spreads.
What Does Jeremiah 51:31 Mean?
Messengers run in rapid succession, each meeting another, all carrying the same urgent message: the city is being taken. 'At one end' suggests the king may not yet realize the full extent of the disaster—the invasion is spreading through the city section by section. The frantic activity of messengers conveys the chaos and confusion of invasion.
The image emphasizes the speed of collapse and the breakdown of communication and control. Normally messengers would bring information to the king for decision-making; here they can only confirm what is already happening. The king's powerlessness is implicit in the scene.
Frequently Asked Questions About Jeremiah 51:31
What does Jeremiah 51:31 mean?
Messengers rush to inform the king that his city is falling, even as he remains unaware.
What is the context of Jeremiah 51:31?
Messengers race to inform the king of his city's fall as the invasion spreads.