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Book of Jeremiah - Chapter 51 - Verse 37

51:37
And Babylon shall become heaps, a dwellingplace for dragons, an astonishment, and an hissing, without an inhabitant.

Meaning

This verse from the book of Jeremiah prophesies the downfall of the ancient city of Babylon. The mention of Babylon becoming "heaps" implies that the city will be completely destroyed and left in ruins. The reference to it becoming a dwelling place for dragons symbolizes desolation and abandonment, as dragons were often associated with chaos and destruction in ancient literature. The term "an astonishment, and an hissing" suggests that Babylon's destruction will be so severe that it will become a byword for devastation and ruin. The phrase "without an inhabitant" indicates that the city will be left deserted, with no one left to live there. Overall, this verse serves as a powerful reminder of the consequences of pride and sin, as Babylon's downfall is attributed to its wickedness and failure to honor God.

Theological Overview

In this verse, the mention of Babylon becoming "heaps" refers to the complete destruction and desolation that will befall the once-great city. The term "dwellingplace for dragons" is symbolic of a place of desolation and abandonment, as dragons were often associated with chaos and destruction in ancient literature. The word "astonishment" conveys the sense of shock and disbelief that will be experienced by those who witness the downfall of Babylon. Additionally, the mention of the city being a "hissing" signifies that Babylon will become a symbol of contempt and scorn. The verse concludes with the stark image of Babylon being without any inhabitants, emphasizing the utter devastation that will befall the city. Overall, this verse serves as a warning of the consequences that can arise from pride, arrogance, and disobedience to God.

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