Book of Jeremiah - Chapter 51 - Verse 3

This verse is a call to action in times of war, instructing the archer to bend his bow against the enemy who is preparing for battle and to be ruthless in targeting the enemy's soldiers, even the young men, and to completely destroy their entire army. The imagery of the archer bending his bow and the enemy lifting himself up in his brigandine, a protective armor, signifies the intensity and seriousness of the conflict being described. The verse emphasizes the importance of strategic military actions and not holding back when engaging in warfare. It reflects the harsh realities of ancient battles where victory often depended on the ability to swiftly and decisively defeat the enemy. In a broader context, this verse can also be interpreted as a metaphor for facing challenges head-on and being relentless in pursuing one's goals, not showing mercy or hesitation in the face of adversity.

This verse from the book of Jeremiah depicts a scene of warfare and destruction as punishment for a nation's sins. The phrase "Against him that bendeth let the archer bend his bow" suggests a sense of retribution and justice being meted out to those who have wronged others. The imagery of the archer bending his bow against the one who bends, conveys a message of facing consequences for one's actions. The mention of "brigandine" in the following part of the verse refers to a type of body armor used in battle, symbolizing the strength and valor of the enemy. The directive to "destroy ye utterly all her host" conveys the severity of the judgment being pronounced. This verse can be interpreted theologically as a reminder of the consequences of disobedience and the importance of accountability in the eyes of God. It serves as a cautionary tale about the repercussions of sin and the need for repentance to avoid facing the full extent of divine justice.