Jeremiah 49:25 (KJV)

What does Jeremiah 49:25 mean?

Jeremiah 49:25 expresses shock and sorrow that a once-celebrated city, known for its honor and joy, has been devastated and deserted. The verse is a lament, marveling at how a place once full of life and praise could now be abandoned.

In this verse, the prophet Jeremiah is speaking about the city of Damascus, addressing its downfall during God’s judgment against various nations. The city is called “the city of praise” and “the city of my joy,” highlighting its former glory and the deep sense of loss now felt over its destruction. The tone is one of disbelief that such a prominent and joyful place could be left so empty.

The Hebrew behind Jeremiah 49:25

• “city” (עִיר, ʿir; קִרְיָה, qiryah): Two different Hebrew words for “city” appear here, emphasizing both the general idea of a city and perhaps a more poetic or affectionate sense. This repetition underlines the significance of the place being described.
• “praise” (תְּהִלָּה, tehillah): This word means “praise” or “renown.” Calling Damascus a “city of praise” shows it was once highly esteemed and celebrated.
• “left” (עָזַב, ʿazav): This word means “abandoned” or “forsaken.” The verse’s shock comes from the idea that such a renowned city could be deserted.
• “joy” (מָשׂוֹשׂ, masos): This word means “joy” or “delight.” Describing the city as “my joy” adds a personal note, showing the affection or pride once felt for it.

Why Jeremiah 49:25 matters

• The verse highlights the dramatic reversal of fortunes for Damascus, a city once admired and joyful, now left desolate, which would have been shocking to its contemporaries.
• Using both “praise” and “joy” to describe the city shows the depth of loss and the emotional impact of its downfall, not just its physical destruction.
• This lament fits into Jeremiah’s larger message of judgment against the nations, reminding readers that no place, however celebrated, is immune to downfall.