Question 1

What does Jeremiah 48:16 mean?

Accepted Answer

Jeremiah 48:16 warns that disaster for Moab is very close and that Moab’s suffering will arrive quickly. The verse is a clear statement that trouble is not only certain for Moab but also imminent and unavoidable. In this part of the book, the prophet Jeremiah is delivering a message from God about the nation of Moab, a neighbor of Israel. Jeremiah is speaking to announce that Moab’s time of judgment is almost here, and the hardship will come swiftly. This verse is part of a longer prophecy against Moab, describing the downfall of a nation that had often been hostile toward Israel.

Question 2

The Hebrew behind Jeremiah 48:16

Accepted Answer

"Calamity" (הֵיד, hêyd; H343) means disaster or ruin. This word highlights that what is coming for Moab is not just hardship but a complete downfall. "Near" (קָרוֹב, qarov; H7138) means close in time, emphasizing that the predicted event is about to happen, not far off in the future. "Hasteth" (מִמַּהֵר, mimaher; H4116) means to hurry or rush. This word adds urgency, showing that Moab’s affliction is not only near but speeding toward them. "Fast" (מְאֹד, me’od; H3966) means very much or exceedingly. Here, it intensifies the speed and certainty of the coming trouble, stressing that it will come with great swiftness.

Question 3

Why Jeremiah 48:16 matters

Accepted Answer

Jeremiah 48:16 clarifies that the warning is not a vague threat but a specific prediction that Moab’s downfall is about to happen soon. The verse uses strong language to stress both the nearness and the speed of the coming disaster, making it clear that there is no escape or delay. This verse fits into a larger section where Jeremiah lists the reasons for Moab’s judgment, helping the reader see that the prophecy is part of a broader message about accountability and consequences for nations.

Jeremiah 48:16 (KJV)