Jeremiah 48:22 (KJV)

What does Jeremiah 48:22 mean?

Jeremiah 48:22 lists three towns—Dibon, Nebo, and Bethdiblathaim—as places that will experience judgment. The verse is part of a larger prophecy where Jeremiah announces coming trouble for various cities in the land of Moab.

Jeremiah, speaking as a prophet, is delivering God’s message of warning to Moab, a neighboring nation east of Israel. The verse is part of a detailed list naming specific Moabite towns that will be affected by this judgment. By mentioning each town, the prophecy shows that the coming hardship will be widespread and thorough, touching every part of Moab.

The Hebrew behind Jeremiah 48:22

• דִּיבוֹן (Dibon, transliterated "Dibon"): This was an important Moabite city, often mentioned in connection with Moab’s history and worship practices. Its inclusion highlights that even significant or central places are not exempt from judgment.
• נְבוֹ (Nebo, transliterated "Nebo"): Nebo was another Moabite town, also associated with a mountain by the same name. The mention of Nebo may remind readers of its religious importance to Moab.
• בֵּית דִּבְלָתָיִם (Bethdiblathaim, transliterated "Bethdiblathaim"): The name means “house of double figs” or “house of fig cakes,” suggesting a place known for agriculture or abundance. Its mention shows that even productive or prosperous areas will face the same fate.

Why Jeremiah 48:22 matters

• Jeremiah 48:22 makes clear that the prophecy is not just about Moab in general, but about real towns and people, emphasizing the seriousness and specificity of the warning.
• The verse connects to the wider passage by showing that the coming judgment is comprehensive, affecting all levels of Moabite society, from major cities to smaller settlements.
• Naming these towns helps modern readers see the historical reality behind the prophecy, reminding us that these were actual communities with their own identities and significance.