Jeremiah 50:27 (KJV)

What does Jeremiah 50:27 mean?

Jeremiah 50:27 describes a call for the destruction of Babylon’s leaders and people, using the image of slaughtering “bullocks” to symbolize those who will be killed. The verse announces that Babylon’s time of judgment has arrived, and those in the city will face consequences for their actions.

In this verse, the prophet Jeremiah is speaking God’s message about Babylon’s coming downfall. The “bullocks” represent Babylon’s strong men or leaders, who are to be led to slaughter like animals. The phrase “the time of their visitation” means the moment when God holds Babylon accountable for its deeds. This is part of a larger prophecy where Jeremiah warns that Babylon, once a powerful empire, will soon face destruction as punishment for its pride and cruelty.

The Hebrew behind Jeremiah 50:27

• “Slay” (חָרַם, ḥāram) means to completely destroy or devote to destruction, emphasizing the totality of the judgment being pronounced.
• “Bullocks” (פַּר, par) refers to young bulls, often used as symbols of strength or leaders; here, it points to Babylon’s prominent people being singled out for judgment.
• “Visitation” (פְּקֻדָּה, pəquddāh) is often used for a time when God intervenes—either to bless or to punish. In this context, it clearly signals a time of reckoning and divine judgment.

Why Jeremiah 50:27 matters

• This verse clarifies that Babylon’s destruction is not random violence but a specific, divinely appointed judgment for its actions.
• The use of sacrificial language (“bullocks” and “slaughter”) highlights how complete and inescapable the coming judgment will be for Babylon’s leaders.
• Understanding this verse helps connect the prophecy to the larger biblical theme of God’s justice against oppressive empires, showing that even the mightiest nations are accountable to God.