Jeremiah 51:36 (KJV)

What does Jeremiah 51:36 mean?

Jeremiah 51:36 says that God promises to defend His people and take action against their enemies, specifically by drying up the resources and strength of Babylon. The verse uses the image of God drying up Babylon’s sea and springs to show that He will remove what supports and sustains the enemy nation.

In this verse, the LORD (God) is speaking through the prophet Jeremiah to reassure the people of Israel, who are suffering under Babylonian power. God declares that He will "plead" (argue or contend) for His people’s cause, take vengeance on their behalf, and bring judgment on Babylon by cutting off its water sources—an image of total defeat. This is part of a larger prophecy where God promises to punish Babylon for its violence against Israel.

The Hebrew behind Jeremiah 51:36

• "plead" (רִיב, riv): This word means to argue a case or contend in court, showing that God is acting as a defender or advocate for His people, not just a judge.
• "vengeance" (נָקַם, naqam): This word refers to taking retribution or settling a score, emphasizing that God’s action is a response to wrongs done to His people, not random punishment.
• "sea" (יָם, yam) and "springs" (מָקוֹר, maqor): These words refer to the main sources of water and life for a city or nation. By drying these up, God is pictured as removing Babylon’s ability to survive and thrive.

Why Jeremiah 51:36 matters

• This verse clarifies that God is not distant or indifferent but actively defends those who are wronged, especially when they are powerless.
• The imagery of drying up the sea and springs connects to the historical fall of Babylon, which depended on its rivers for protection and prosperity.
• Jeremiah 51:36 fits into a larger section where God promises to reverse the fortunes of Israel and bring justice against their oppressors, showing that God’s judgment is purposeful and measured.