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For the LORD has both devised and accomplished what He spoke against the people of Babylon.</title><link rel="canonical" href="https://biblehub.com/jeremiah/51-12.htm" /><link rel="stylesheet" href="/new9.css" type="text/css" media="Screen" /><meta property="og:image" content="https://biblehub.com/visuals/12/24_Jer_51_12.jpg" /><meta property="og:title" content="Jeremiah 51:12 - The Judgment on Babylon" /><meta property="og:site_name" content="Bible Hub" /><meta property="og:description" content="Raise a banner against the walls of Babylon; post the guard; station the watchmen; prepare the ambush. 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Reinforce the guard, station the watchmen, prepare an ambush! The LORD will carry out his purpose, his decree against the people of Babylon. <a href="/nlt/jeremiah/51.htm">New Living Translation</a> Raise the battle flag against Babylon! Reinforce the guard and station the watchmen. Prepare an ambush, for the LORD will fulfill all his plans against Babylon. <a href="/esv/jeremiah/51.htm">English Standard Version</a> “Set up a standard against the walls of Babylon; make the watch strong; set up watchmen; prepare the ambushes; for the LORD has both planned and done what he spoke concerning the inhabitants of Babylon. <a href="/bsb/jeremiah/51.htm">Berean Standard Bible</a> Raise a banner against the walls of Babylon; post the guard; station the watchmen; prepare the ambush. For the LORD has both devised and accomplished what He spoke against the people of Babylon. <a href="/kjv/jeremiah/51.htm">King James Bible</a> Set up the standard upon the walls of Babylon, make the watch strong, set up the watchmen, prepare the ambushes: for the LORD hath both devised and done that which he spake against the inhabitants of Babylon. <a href="/nkjv/jeremiah/51.htm">New King James Version</a> Set up the standard on the walls of Babylon; Make the guard strong, Set up the watchmen, Prepare the ambushes. For the LORD has both devised and done What He spoke against the inhabitants of Babylon. <a href="/nasb_/jeremiah/51.htm">New American Standard Bible</a> Lift up a signal flag against the walls of Babylon; Post a strong guard, Station sentries, Set up an ambush! For the LORD has both planned and performed What He spoke concerning the inhabitants of Babylon. <a href="/nasb/jeremiah/51.htm">NASB 1995</a> Lift up a signal against the walls of Babylon; Post a strong guard, Station sentries, Place men in ambush! For the LORD has both purposed and performed What He spoke concerning the inhabitants of Babylon. <a href="/nasb77/jeremiah/51.htm">NASB 1977 </a> Lift up a signal against the walls of Babylon; Post a strong guard, Station sentries, Place men in ambush! For the LORD has both purposed and performed What He spoke concerning the inhabitants of Babylon. <a href="/lsb/jeremiah/51.htm">Legacy Standard Bible </a> Lift up a standard against the walls of Babylon; Make strong the watch; Raise up watchmen; Establish men in ambush! For Yahweh has both purposed and performed What He spoke concerning the inhabitants of Babylon. <a href="/amp/jeremiah/51.htm">Amplified Bible</a> Set up a signal on the walls of Babylon [to spread the news]; Post a strong blockade, Station the guards, Prepare the men for ambush! For the LORD has both purposed and done That which He spoke against the people of Babylon. <a href="/csb/jeremiah/51.htm">Christian Standard Bible</a> Raise up a signal flag against the walls of Babylon; fortify the watch post; set the watchmen in place; prepare the ambush. For the LORD has both planned and accomplished what he has threatened against those who live in Babylon. <a href="/hcsb/jeremiah/51.htm">Holman Christian Standard Bible</a> Raise up a signal flag against the walls of Babylon; fortify the watch post; set the watchmen in place; prepare the ambush. For the LORD has both planned and accomplished what He has threatened against those who live in Babylon. <a href="/asv/jeremiah/51.htm">American Standard Version</a> Set up a standard against the walls of Babylon, make the watch strong, set the watchmen, prepare the ambushes; for Jehovah hath both purposed and done that which he spake concerning the inhabitants of Babylon. <a href="/cev/jeremiah/51.htm">Contemporary English Version</a> Raise the signal flag and attack the city walls. Post more guards. Have soldiers watch the city and set up ambushes. I have made plans to destroy Babylon, and nothing will stop me. <a href="/erv/jeremiah/51.htm">English Revised Version</a> Set up a standard against the walls of Babylon, make the watch strong, set the watchmen, prepare the ambushes: for the LORD hath both devised and done that which he spake concerning the inhabitants of Babylon. <a href="/gwt/jeremiah/51.htm">GOD'S WORD® Translation</a> Raise your battle flag in front of the walls of Babylon. Strengthen the guards. Station watchmen. Prepare ambushes. The LORD will carry out his plans against the people who live in Babylon. <a href="/gnt/jeremiah/51.htm">Good News Translation</a> Give the signal to attack Babylon's walls. Strengthen the guard! Post the sentries! Place troops in ambush!" The LORD has done what he said he would do to the people of Babylonia. <a href="/isv/jeremiah/51.htm">International Standard Version</a> Lift up the battle standard against Babylon's walls. Strengthen the guard; post watchmen. Set men in position for an ambush. For the LORD will both plan and carry out what he has declared against the inhabitants of Babylon. <a href="/msb/jeremiah/51.htm">Majority Standard Bible</a> Raise a banner against the walls of Babylon; post the guard; station the watchmen; prepare the ambush. For the LORD has both devised and accomplished what He spoke against the people of Babylon. <a href="/net/jeremiah/51.htm">NET Bible</a> Give the signal to attack Babylon's wall! Bring more guards! Post them all around the city! Put men in ambush! For the LORD will do what he has planned. He will do what he said he would do to the people of Babylon. <a href="/nheb/jeremiah/51.htm">New Heart English Bible</a> Set up a standard against the walls of Babylon, make the watch strong, set the watchmen, prepare the ambushes; for the LORD has both purposed and done that which he spoke concerning the inhabitants of Babylon. <a href="/wbt/jeremiah/51.htm">Webster's Bible Translation</a> Set up the standard upon the walls of Babylon, make the watch strong, set up the watchmen, prepare the ambushes: for the LORD hath both devised and done that which he spoke against the inhabitants of Babylon. <a href="/web/jeremiah/51.htm">World English Bible</a> Set up a standard against the walls of Babylon! Make the watch strong! Set the watchmen, and prepare the ambushes; for Yahweh has both purposed and done that which he spoke concerning the inhabitants of Babylon. <div class="vheading2">Literal Translations</div><a href="/lsv/jeremiah/51.htm">Literal Standard Version</a> Lift up an ensign to the walls of Babylon, "" Strengthen the watch, "" Establish the watchers, prepare the ambush, "" For YHWH has both devised and done that which He spoke, "" Concerning the inhabitants of Babylon. <a href="/ylt/jeremiah/51.htm">Young's Literal Translation</a> Unto the walls of Babylon lift up an ensign, Strengthen the watch, Establish the watchers, prepare the ambush, For Jehovah hath both devised and done that which He spake, Concerning the inhabitants of Babylon. <a href="/slt/jeremiah/51.htm">Smith's Literal Translation</a> Lift ye up a signal against the walls of Babel, strengthen the watch, set up the watchers, prepare the ambushes: for Jehovah also purposed and also did what he spake to the inhabitants of Babel.<div class="vheading2">Catholic Translations</div><a href="/drb/jeremiah/51.htm">Douay-Rheims Bible</a> Upon the walls of Babylon set up the standard, strengthen the watch: set up the watchmen, prepare the ambushes: for the Lord hath both purposed, and done all that he spoke against the inhabitants of Babylon. <a href="/cpdv/jeremiah/51.htm">Catholic Public Domain Version</a> Upon the walls of Babylon, lift up a sign. Increase the watch! Rouse the watchmen! Prepare ambushes! For the Lord has planned and has accomplished all that he has spoken, against the inhabitants of Babylon. <a href="/nabre/jeremiah/51.htm">New American Bible</a> Over the walls of Babylon raise a signal, reinforce the watch; Post sentries, arrange ambushes! For the LORD has both planned and carried out what he spoke against the inhabitants of Babylon. <a href="/nrsvce/jeremiah/51.htm">New Revised Standard Version</a> Raise a standard against the walls of Babylon; make the watch strong; post sentinels; prepare the ambushes; for the LORD has both planned and done what he spoke concerning the inhabitants of Babylon.<div class="vheading2">Translations from Aramaic</div><a href="/lamsa/jeremiah/51.htm">Lamsa Bible</a> Set up the ensign upon the walls of Babylon, set up a watch, drown her in waters; for the LORD has performed that which he had devised against the inhabitants of Babylon. <a href="/hpbt/jeremiah/51.htm">Peshitta Holy Bible Translated</a> On the walls of Babel take up a flag. Set up a Guard and drown her in waters, because LORD JEHOVAH did the thing which he counseled for Babel<div class="vheading2">OT Translations</div><a href="/jps/jeremiah/51.htm">JPS Tanakh 1917</a> Set up a standard against the walls of Babylon, Make the watch strong, Set the watchmen, prepare the ambushes; For the LORD hath both devised and done That which He spoke concerning the inhabitants of Babylon. <a href="/sep/jeremiah/51.htm">Brenton Septuagint Translation</a> Lift up a standard on the walls of Babylon, prepare the quivers, rouse the guards, prepare the weapons: for the Lord has taken the work in hand, and will execute what he has spoken against the inhabitants of Babylon, <a href="/parallel/jeremiah/51-12.htm">Additional Translations ...</a></div></div></div><div id="centbox"><div class="padcent"><a name="audio" id="audio"></a><div class="vheadingv">Audio Bible</div><iframe width="100%" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/5k55c51ZGhs?start=15942" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe> <div class="vheadingv">Context</div><a href="/bsb/jeremiah/51.htm">The Judgment on Babylon</a> …11Sharpen the arrows! Fill the quivers! The LORD has aroused the spirit of the kings of the Medes, because His plan is aimed at Babylon to destroy her, for it is the vengeance of the LORD—vengeance for His temple. 12<a href="/hebrew/5375.htm" title="5375: śə·’ū- (V-Qal-Imp-mp) -- Or nacah ('abad); a primitive root; to lift, in a great variety of applications, literal and figurative, absol. And rel.">Raise</a> <a href="/hebrew/5251.htm" title="5251: nês (N-ms) -- From nacac; a flag; also a sail; by implication, a flagstaff; generally a signal; figuratively, a token.">a banner</a> <a href="/hebrew/413.htm" title="413: ’el- (Prep) -- To, into, towards. ">against</a> <a href="/hebrew/2346.htm" title="2346: ḥō·w·mōṯ (N-fpc) -- A wall. Feminine active participle of an unused root apparently meaning to join; a wall of protection.">the walls</a> <a href="/hebrew/894.htm" title="894: bā·ḇel (N-proper-fs) -- From balal; confusion; Babel, including Babylonia and the Babylonian empire.">of Babylon;</a> <a href="/hebrew/2388.htm" title="2388: ha·ḥă·zî·qū (V-Hifil-Imp-mp) -- A primitive root; to fasten upon; hence, to seize, be strong, obstinate; to bind, restrain, conquer.">post</a> <a href="/hebrew/4929.htm" title="4929: ham·miš·mār (Art:: N-ms) -- Place of confinement, jail, prison, guard, watch, observance. From shamar; a guard; a deposit; also a usage, or an example.">the guard;</a> <a href="/hebrew/6965.htm" title="6965: hā·qî·mū (V-Hifil-Imp-mp) -- To arise, stand up, stand. A primitive root; to rise.">station</a> <a href="/hebrew/8104.htm" title="8104: šō·mə·rîm (V-Qal-Prtcpl-mp) -- To keep, watch, preserve. A primitive root; properly, to hedge about, i.e. Guard; generally, to protect, attend to, etc.">the watchmen;</a> <a href="/hebrew/3559.htm" title="3559: hā·ḵî·nū (V-Hifil-Imp-mp) -- A primitive root; properly, to be erect; hence to set up, in a great variety of applications, whether literal, or figurative.">prepare</a> <a href="/hebrew/693.htm" title="693: hā·’ō·rə·ḇîm (Art:: V-Qal-Prtcpl-mp) -- To lie in wait. A primitive root; to lurk.">the ambush.</a> <a href="/hebrew/3588.htm" title="3588: kî (Conj) -- That, for, when. ">For</a> <a href="/hebrew/3068.htm" title="3068: Yah·weh (N-proper-ms) -- The proper name of the God of Israel. From hayah; self-Existent or Eternal; Jehovah, Jewish national name of God.">the LORD</a> <a href="/hebrew/1571.htm" title="1571: gam- (Conj) -- Also, moreover, yea. ">has both</a> <a href="/hebrew/2161.htm" title="2161: zā·mam (V-Qal-Perf-3ms) -- To consider, purpose, devise. A primitive root; to plan, usually in a bad sense.">devised</a> <a href="/hebrew/1571.htm" title="1571: gam- (Conj) -- Also, moreover, yea. ">and</a> <a href="/hebrew/6213.htm" title="6213: ‘ā·śāh (V-Qal-Perf-3ms) -- To do, make. A primitive root; to do or make, in the broadest sense and widest application.">accomplished</a> <a href="/hebrew/853.htm" title="853: ’êṯ (DirObjM) -- Apparent contracted from 'owth in the demonstrative sense of entity; properly, self."></a> <a href="/hebrew/834.htm" title="834: ’ă·šer- (Pro-r) -- Who, which, that. A primitive relative pronoun; who, which, what, that; also when, where, how, because, in order that, etc.">what</a> <a href="/hebrew/1696.htm" title="1696: dib·ber (V-Piel-Perf-3ms) -- To speak. A primitive root; perhaps properly, to arrange; but used figuratively, to speak; rarely to subdue.">He spoke</a> <a href="/hebrew/413.htm" title="413: ’el- (Prep) -- To, into, towards. ">against</a> <a href="/hebrew/3427.htm" title="3427: yō·šə·ḇê (V-Qal-Prtcpl-mpc) -- A primitive root; properly, to sit down; by implication, to dwell, to remain; causatively, to settle, to marry.">the people</a> <a href="/hebrew/894.htm" title="894: ḇā·ḇel (N-proper-fs) -- From balal; confusion; Babel, including Babylonia and the Babylonian empire.">of Babylon.</a> 13You who dwell by many waters, rich in treasures, your end has come; the thread of your life is cut.…<div class="cred"><a href="//berean.bible">Berean Standard Bible</a> · <a href="//berean.bible/downloads.htm">Download</a></div> <a name="crossref" id="crossref"></a><div class="vheading">Cross References</div><div id="crf"><a href="/isaiah/13-17.htm">Isaiah 13:17-19</a> Behold, I will stir up against them the Medes, who have no regard for silver and no desire for gold. / Their bows will dash young men to pieces; they will have no mercy on the fruit of the womb; they will not look with pity on the children. / And Babylon, the jewel of the kingdoms, the glory of the pride of the Chaldeans, will be overthrown by God like Sodom and Gomorrah. <a href="/revelation/18-2.htm">Revelation 18:2-3</a> And he cried out in a mighty voice: “Fallen, fallen is Babylon the great! She has become a lair for demons and a haunt for every unclean spirit, every unclean bird, and every detestable beast. / All the nations have drunk the wine of the passion of her immorality. The kings of the earth were immoral with her, and the merchants of the earth have grown wealthy from the extravagance of her luxury.” <a href="/isaiah/21-5.htm">Isaiah 21:5-9</a> They prepare a table, they lay out a carpet, they eat, they drink! Rise up, O princes, oil the shields! / For this is what the Lord says to me: “Go, post a lookout and have him report what he sees. / When he sees chariots with teams of horsemen, riders on donkeys, riders on camels, he must be alert, fully alert.” ... <a href="/revelation/17-1.htm">Revelation 17:1-2</a> Then one of the seven angels with the seven bowls came and said to me, “Come, I will show you the punishment of the great prostitute, who sits on many waters. / The kings of the earth were immoral with her, and those who dwell on the earth were intoxicated with the wine of her immorality.” <a href="/habakkuk/2-7.htm">Habakkuk 2:7-8</a> Will not your creditors suddenly arise and those who disturb you awaken? Then you will become their prey. / Because you have plundered many nations, the remnant of the people will plunder you—because of your bloodshed against man and your violence against the land, the city, and all their dwellers. <a href="/revelation/16-19.htm">Revelation 16:19</a> The great city was split into three parts, and the cities of the nations collapsed. And God remembered Babylon the great and gave her the cup of the wine of the fury of His wrath. <a href="/isaiah/47-1.htm">Isaiah 47:1-3</a> “Go down and sit in the dust, O Virgin Daughter of Babylon. Sit on the ground without a throne, O Daughter of the Chaldeans! For you will no longer be called tender or delicate. / Take millstones and grind flour; remove your veil; strip off your skirt, bare your thigh, and wade through the streams. / Your nakedness will be uncovered and your shame will be exposed. I will take vengeance; I will spare no one.” <a href="/revelation/14-8.htm">Revelation 14:8</a> Then a second angel followed, saying, “Fallen, fallen is Babylon the great, who has made all the nations drink the wine of the passion of her immorality.” <a href="/jeremiah/50-9.htm">Jeremiah 50:9-10</a> For behold, I stir up and bring against Babylon an assembly of great nations from the land of the north. They will line up against her; from the north she will be captured. Their arrows will be like skilled warriors who do not return empty-handed. / Chaldea will be plundered; all who plunder her will have their fill,” declares the LORD. <a href="/revelation/18-6.htm">Revelation 18:6-8</a> Give back to her as she has done to others; pay her back double for what she has done; mix her a double portion in her own cup. / As much as she has glorified herself and lived in luxury, give her the same measure of torment and grief. In her heart she says, ‘I sit as queen; I am not a widow and will never see grief.’ / Therefore her plagues will come in one day—death and grief and famine—and she will be consumed by fire, for mighty is the Lord God who judges her.” <a href="/isaiah/45-1.htm">Isaiah 45:1-2</a> This is what the LORD says to Cyrus His anointed, whose right hand I have grasped to subdue nations before him, to disarm kings, to open the doors before him, so that the gates will not be shut: / “I will go before you and level the mountains; I will break down the gates of bronze and cut through the bars of iron. <a href="/revelation/18-20.htm">Revelation 18:20-21</a> Rejoice over her, O heaven, and you saints and apostles and prophets, because God has pronounced for you His judgment against her. / Then a mighty angel picked up a stone the size of a great millstone and cast it into the sea, saying: “With such violence the great city of Babylon will be cast down, never to be seen again. <a href="/jeremiah/50-14.htm">Jeremiah 50:14-15</a> Line up in formation around Babylon, all you who draw the bow! Shoot at her! Spare no arrows! For she has sinned against the LORD. / Raise a war cry against her on every side! She has thrown up her hands in surrender; her towers have fallen; her walls are torn down. Since this is the vengeance of the LORD, take out your vengeance upon her; as she has done, do the same to her. <a href="/revelation/19-1.htm">Revelation 19:1-2</a> After this I heard a sound like the roar of a great multitude in heaven, shouting: “Hallelujah! Salvation and glory and power belong to our God! / For His judgments are true and just. He has judged the great prostitute who corrupted the earth with her immorality. He has avenged the blood of His servants that was poured out by her hand.” <a href="/isaiah/48-14.htm">Isaiah 48:14-15</a> Come together, all of you, and listen: Which of the idols has foretold these things? The LORD’s chosen ally will carry out His desire against Babylon, and His arm will be against the Chaldeans. / I, even I, have spoken; yes, I have called him. I have brought him, and he will succeed in his mission.</div> <a name="tsk" id="tsk"><div class="vheading">Treasury of Scripture</div>Set up the standard on the walls of Babylon, make the watch strong, set up the watchmen, prepare the ambushes: for the LORD has both devised and done that which he spoke against the inhabitants of Babylon.the standard<a href="/jeremiah/46-3.htm">Jeremiah 46:3-5</a> Order ye the buckler and shield, and draw near to battle… <a href="/proverbs/21-30.htm">Proverbs 21:30</a> There is no wisdom nor understanding nor counsel against the LORD.<a href="/isaiah/8-9.htm">Isaiah 8:9,10</a> Associate yourselves, O ye people, and ye shall be broken in pieces; and give ear, all ye of far countries: gird yourselves, and ye shall be broken in pieces; gird yourselves, and ye shall be broken in pieces… ambushes [heb] liers in wait<a href="/joshua/8-14.htm">Joshua 8:14</a> And it came to pass, when the king of Ai saw it, that they hasted and rose up early, and the men of the city went out against Israel to battle, he and all his people, at a time appointed, before the plain; but he wist not that there were liers in ambush against him behind the city.the Lord hath both<a href="/jeremiah/51-11.htm">Jeremiah 51:11,29</a> Make bright the arrows; gather the shields: the LORD hath raised up the spirit of the kings of the Medes: for his device is against Babylon, to destroy it; because it is the vengeance of the LORD, the vengeance of his temple… <a href="/lamentations/2-17.htm">Lamentations 2:17</a> The LORD hath done that which he had devised; he hath fulfilled his word that he had commanded in the days of old: he hath thrown down, and hath not pitied: and he hath caused thine enemy to rejoice over thee, he hath set up the horn of thine adversaries.<div class="vheading">Jump to Previous</div><a href="/jeremiah/9-8.htm">Ambush</a> <a href="/psalms/64-4.htm">Ambushes</a> <a href="/jeremiah/51-11.htm">Babylon</a> <a href="/jeremiah/49-30.htm">Devised</a> <a href="/jeremiah/43-6.htm">Guard</a> <a href="/jeremiah/51-1.htm">Inhabitants</a> <a href="/jeremiah/38-10.htm">Lift</a> <a href="/jeremiah/35-16.htm">Performed</a> <a href="/isaiah/22-19.htm">Post</a> <a href="/jeremiah/46-19.htm">Prepare</a> <a href="/jeremiah/50-45.htm">Purposed</a> <a href="/acts/12-6.htm">Sentries</a> <a href="/jeremiah/6-1.htm">Signal</a> <a href="/jeremiah/50-2.htm">Standard</a> <a href="/jeremiah/48-19.htm">Station</a> <a href="/jeremiah/50-44.htm">Strong</a> <a href="/jeremiah/50-15.htm">Walls</a> <a href="/jeremiah/48-19.htm">Watch</a> <a href="/jeremiah/39-15.htm">Watchmen</a><div class="vheading2">Jump to Next</div><a href="/lamentations/4-19.htm">Ambush</a> <a href="/judges/20-29.htm">Ambushes</a> <a href="/jeremiah/51-24.htm">Babylon</a> <a href="/lamentations/2-17.htm">Devised</a> <a href="/jeremiah/52-12.htm">Guard</a> <a href="/jeremiah/51-24.htm">Inhabitants</a> <a href="/jeremiah/51-14.htm">Lift</a> <a href="/jeremiah/51-29.htm">Performed</a> <a href="/jeremiah/51-31.htm">Post</a> <a href="/jeremiah/51-27.htm">Prepare</a> <a href="/lamentations/2-8.htm">Purposed</a> <a href="/acts/5-23.htm">Sentries</a> <a href="/zechariah/10-8.htm">Signal</a> <a href="/jeremiah/51-27.htm">Standard</a> <a href="/ezekiel/22-30.htm">Station</a> <a href="/jeremiah/51-15.htm">Strong</a> <a href="/jeremiah/51-37.htm">Walls</a> <a href="/ezekiel/12-3.htm">Watch</a> <a href="/ezekiel/27-11.htm">Watchmen</a><div class="vheading2">Jeremiah 51</div>1. <a href="/jeremiah/51-1.htm">The severe judgment of God against Babylon, in revenge of Israel</a> 59. <a href="/jeremiah/51-59.htm">Jeremiah delivers the book of this prophecy to Seraiah, to be cast into Euphrates, </a> 64. <a href="/jeremiah/51-64.htm">in token of the perpetual sinking of Babylon</a> </div></div><div id="mdd"><div align="center"><div class="bot2"><table align="center" width="100%"><tr><td><div align="center"> <script id="3d27ed63fc4348d5b062c4527ae09445"> (new Image()).src = 'https://capi.connatix.com/tr/si?token=51ce25d5-1a8c-424a-8695-4bd48c750f35&cid=3a9f82d0-4344-4f8d-ac0c-e1a0eb43a405'; </script> <script id="b817b7107f1d4a7997da1b3c33457e03"> (new Image()).src = 'https://capi.connatix.com/tr/si?token=cb0edd8b-b416-47eb-8c6d-3cc96561f7e8&cid=3a9f82d0-4344-4f8d-ac0c-e1a0eb43a405'; </script>  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-2'> </div>  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-0' style='max-width: 300px;'> </div>  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-3'> </div>  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-1' style='max-width: 300px;'> </div>  <div align="center" id='div-gpt-ad-1531425649696-0'> </div> <ins class="adsbygoogle" style="display:inline-block;width:200px;height:200px" data-ad-client="ca-pub-3753401421161123" data-ad-slot="3592799687"></ins> <script> (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); </script> </div> </td></tr></table></div></div></div><div id="combox"><div class="padcom"><a name="study" id="study"></a><div class="vheading"><table width="100%"><tr><td width="99%" valign="top"><a href="/study/jeremiah/51.htm">Study Bible</a></td><td width="1%" valign="top"><a href="/study/jeremiah/" title="Book Summary and Study">Book ◦</a> <a href="/study/chapters/jeremiah/51.htm" title="Chapter summary and Study">Chapter </a></tr></table></div>Raise a banner against the walls of Babylon; In ancient warfare, raising a banner was a signal for troops to assemble or advance. Babylon, a symbol of human pride and idolatry, is under divine judgment. The walls of Babylon were considered impregnable, yet God’s command to raise a banner signifies the certainty of its fall. This imagery is reminiscent of <a href="/isaiah/13-2.htm">Isaiah 13:2</a>, where a banner is raised on a bare hilltop, signaling the gathering of nations against Babylon. The banner represents God's authority and the impending judgment.post the guard; Posting a guard indicates preparation and vigilance. In the context of Babylon's impending doom, it suggests that the attackers are to be ready and alert. Historically, Babylon was a fortified city with strong defenses, but the divine directive to post guards underscores the inevitability of its capture. This reflects the biblical theme of watchfulness, as seen in <a href="/ezekiel/33-7.htm">Ezekiel 33:7</a>, where the prophet is appointed as a watchman for Israel.station the watchmen; Watchmen were crucial in ancient cities for early warning of approaching danger. Here, the watchmen are stationed as part of the divine strategy against Babylon. This action symbolizes the readiness and anticipation of God's judgment. The role of watchmen is also a spiritual metaphor, as seen in <a href="/isaiah/62-6.htm">Isaiah 62:6</a>, where watchmen are placed on Jerusalem's walls to pray and intercede continually.prepare the ambush. An ambush involves surprise and strategic planning. The preparation of an ambush against Babylon indicates a well-orchestrated divine plan. Historically, Babylon fell to the Medes and Persians through a surprise attack, fulfilling this prophecy. The concept of an ambush reflects God's sovereignty and the fulfillment of His word, as seen in the unexpected ways He often accomplishes His purposes.For the LORD has both devised and accomplished what He spoke against the people of Babylon. This phrase emphasizes God's sovereignty and faithfulness in executing His plans. The fall of Babylon was prophesied by Jeremiah and other prophets, such as Isaiah and Daniel. God's devising and accomplishing highlight His omnipotence and the certainty of His word. This assurance is echoed in <a href="/isaiah/46-10.htm">Isaiah 46:10</a>, where God declares the end from the beginning, fulfilling His purpose. The judgment on Babylon serves as a type of the ultimate judgment on all worldly systems opposed to God, pointing to the final victory of Christ.<div class="vheading2">Persons / Places / Events</div>1. <a href="/topical/j/jeremiah.htm">Jeremiah</a> A major prophet in the Old Testament, Jeremiah is known for his prophecies concerning the judgment and restoration of Israel and the surrounding nations, including Babylon. 2. <a href="/topical/b/babylon.htm">Babylon</a> An ancient city and empire known for its wealth, power, and opposition to God's people. In this context, Babylon represents a symbol of human pride and rebellion against God. 3. <a href="/topical/t/the_lord.htm">The LORD (Yahweh)</a> The covenant God of Israel, who is sovereign over all nations and executes judgment and salvation according to His divine plan. 4. <a href="/topical/w/watchmen.htm">Watchmen</a> Individuals tasked with keeping watch over a city, alerting its inhabitants to approaching danger. Spiritually, they symbolize vigilance and readiness. 5. <a href="/topical/a/ambush.htm">Ambush</a> A military tactic involving surprise attacks. Here, it signifies God's strategic and inevitable judgment against Babylon.<div class="vheading2">Teaching Points</div><a href="/topical/g/god's_sovereignty.htm">God's Sovereignty</a> God's plans are unchangeable and will be accomplished. Believers can trust in His ultimate control over history and nations. <a href="/topical/s/spiritual_vigilance.htm">Spiritual Vigilance</a> Just as watchmen are crucial for a city's defense, Christians are called to be spiritually vigilant, guarding against sin and staying alert to God's movements. <a href="/topical/j/judgment_and_justice.htm">Judgment and Justice</a> God's judgment against Babylon serves as a reminder of His justice. Believers should live righteously, knowing that God will judge all nations and individuals. <a href="/topical/p/preparation_for_spiritual_battle.htm">Preparation for Spiritual Battle</a> The call to prepare an ambush signifies the need for readiness in spiritual warfare. Christians must equip themselves with God's Word and prayer. <a href="/topical/f/fulfillment_of_prophecy.htm">Fulfillment of Prophecy</a> The fulfillment of God's word against Babylon assures believers of the reliability of Scripture and God's promises.<div class="vheading2">Lists and Questions</div><a href="/top10/lessons_from_jeremiah_51.htm">Top 10 Lessons from Jeremiah 51</a> <a href="/q/how_is_babylon's_fall_reconciled.htm">Jeremiah 51:8 says Babylon has 'suddenly fallen,' yet historical records indicate a gradual decline--how is this reconciled?</a> <a href="/q/why_punish_babylon_if_god_used_it.htm">Jeremiah 51:7 calls Babylon a 'golden cup' in God's hand; if God used Babylon, why should the nation be punished?</a> <a href="/q/how_does_jer._51_37_align_with_babylon's_history.htm">Jeremiah 51:37 claims Babylon will be 'a heap of ruins,' but archaeological findings indicate the city remained active for centuries--how does this align with the text?</a> <a href="/q/does_babylon's_reuse_contradict_prophecy.htm">Jeremiah 51:26 states no stone from Babylon will ever be used again, yet evidence suggests later civilizations reused its materials--does this contradict the prophecy?</a><a name="commentary" id="commentary"></a><div class="vheading2"><a href="/commentaries/ellicott/jeremiah/51.htm">Ellicott's Commentary for English Readers</a></div>(12) Set up the standard upon the walls of Babylon.--The Authorised version, following the LXX. and the Vulgate, takes the words as an ironical summons to a defence which will prove fruitless. The preposition for "upon" may, however, mean against, and this agrees better with the context. The "standards" are the banners or signals that direct an attack on a given point of the walls. The "watch" and "watchmen" are the scouts and sentinels placed to give notice of any attempt at a sally on the part of the besieged. The "ambush" may indicate generally any sudden attack, or, more specifically, the stratagem of a feigned flight, like that employed by Joshua in the attack on Ai (<a href="/context/joshua/8-14.htm" title="And it came to pass, when the king of Ai saw it, that they hurried and rose up early, and the men of the city went out against Israel to battle, he and all his people, at a time appointed, before the plain; but he knew not that there were liers in ambush against him behind the city.">Joshua 8:14-16</a>; comp. <a href="/context/judges/20-33.htm" title="And all the men of Israel rose up out of their place, and put themselves in array at Baaltamar: and the liers in wait of Israel came forth out of their places, even out of the meadows of Gibeah.">Judges 20:33-35</a>).<div class="vheading2"><a href="/commentaries/pulpit/jeremiah/51.htm">Pulpit Commentary</a></div>Verse 12. - Upon the walls of Babylon; rather, toward the walls (as <a href="/jeremiah/4-6.htm">Jeremiah 4:6</a>). The "standard" was carried before the army, to show the direction of the march. Make the watch strong. Not merely for the safety of the invaders, but to blockade the city. Comp. the phrase, "Watchers [a synonymous Hebrew word is used] came from a far country" (<a href="/jeremiah/4-16.htm">Jeremiah 4:16</a>); i.e. besiegers. Prepare the ambushes. To press into the city when the besieged have made a sally (as <a href="/joshua/8-14.htm">Joshua 8:14-19</a>; <a href="/judges/20-33.htm">Judges 20:33, 37</a>). <a href="/commentaries/jeremiah/51-12.htm">Parallel Commentaries ...</a> <a name="lexicon" id="lexicon"></a><div class="vheading">Hebrew</div>Raise שְׂאוּ־ (śə·’ū-) Verb - Qal - Imperative - masculine plural <a href="/hebrew/strongs_5375.htm">Strong's 5375: </a> To lift, carry, take a banner נֵ֗ס (nês) Noun - masculine singular <a href="/hebrew/strongs_5251.htm">Strong's 5251: </a> A flag, a sail, a flagstaff, a signal, a token against אֶל־ (’el-) Preposition <a href="/hebrew/strongs_413.htm">Strong's 413: </a> Near, with, among, to the walls חוֹמֹ֨ת (ḥō·w·mōṯ) Noun - feminine plural construct <a href="/hebrew/strongs_2346.htm">Strong's 2346: </a> A wall of protection of Babylon; בָּבֶ֜ל (bā·ḇel) Noun - proper - feminine singular <a href="/hebrew/strongs_894.htm">Strong's 894: </a> Babylon -- an eastern Mediterranean empire and its capital city post הַחֲזִ֙יקוּ֙ (ha·ḥă·zî·qū) Verb - Hifil - Imperative - masculine plural <a href="/hebrew/strongs_2388.htm">Strong's 2388: </a> To fasten upon, to seize, be strong, obstinate, to bind, restrain, conquer the guard; הַמִּשְׁמָ֔ר (ham·miš·mār) Article | Noun - masculine singular <a href="/hebrew/strongs_4929.htm">Strong's 4929: </a> Place of confinement, jail, prison, guard, watch, observance station הָקִ֙ימוּ֙ (hā·qî·mū) Verb - Hifil - Imperative - masculine plural <a href="/hebrew/strongs_6965.htm">Strong's 6965: </a> To arise, stand up, stand the watchmen; שֹֽׁמְרִ֔ים (šō·mə·rîm) Verb - Qal - Participle - masculine plural <a href="/hebrew/strongs_8104.htm">Strong's 8104: </a> To hedge about, guard, to protect, attend to prepare הָכִ֖ינוּ (hā·ḵî·nū) Verb - Hifil - Imperative - masculine plural <a href="/hebrew/strongs_3559.htm">Strong's 3559: </a> To be erect the ambush. הָאֹֽרְבִ֑ים (hā·’ō·rə·ḇîm) Article | Verb - Qal - Participle - masculine plural <a href="/hebrew/strongs_693.htm">Strong's 693: </a> To lie in wait For כִּ֚י (kî) Conjunction <a href="/hebrew/strongs_3588.htm">Strong's 3588: </a> A relative conjunction the LORD יְהוָ֔ה (Yah·weh) Noun - proper - masculine singular <a href="/hebrew/strongs_3068.htm">Strong's 3068: </a> LORD -- the proper name of the God of Israel has both גַּם־ (gam-) Conjunction <a href="/hebrew/strongs_1571.htm">Strong's 1571: </a> Assemblage, also, even, yea, though, both, and devised זָמַ֣ם (zā·mam) Verb - Qal - Perfect - third person masculine singular <a href="/hebrew/strongs_2161.htm">Strong's 2161: </a> To consider, purpose, devise and גַּם־ (gam-) Conjunction <a href="/hebrew/strongs_1571.htm">Strong's 1571: </a> Assemblage, also, even, yea, though, both, and accomplished עָשָׂ֕ה (‘ā·śāh) Verb - Qal - Perfect - third person masculine singular <a href="/hebrew/strongs_6213.htm">Strong's 6213: </a> To do, make what אֲשֶׁר־ (’ă·šer-) Pronoun - relative <a href="/hebrew/strongs_834.htm">Strong's 834: </a> Who, which, what, that, when, where, how, because, in order that He spoke דִּבֶּ֖ר (dib·ber) Verb - Piel - Perfect - third person masculine singular <a href="/hebrew/strongs_1696.htm">Strong's 1696: </a> To arrange, to speak, to subdue against אֶל־ (’el-) Preposition <a href="/hebrew/strongs_413.htm">Strong's 413: </a> Near, with, among, to the people יֹשְׁבֵ֥י (yō·šə·ḇê) Verb - Qal - Participle - masculine plural construct <a href="/hebrew/strongs_3427.htm">Strong's 3427: </a> To sit down, to dwell, to remain, to settle, to marry of Babylon. בָבֶֽל׃ (ḇā·ḇel) Noun - proper - feminine singular <a href="/hebrew/strongs_894.htm">Strong's 894: </a> Babylon -- an eastern Mediterranean empire and its capital city <div class="vheading">Links</div><a href="/niv/jeremiah/51-12.htm">Jeremiah 51:12 NIV</a> <a href="/nlt/jeremiah/51-12.htm">Jeremiah 51:12 NLT</a> <a href="/esv/jeremiah/51-12.htm">Jeremiah 51:12 ESV</a> <a href="/nasb/jeremiah/51-12.htm">Jeremiah 51:12 NASB</a> <a href="/kjv/jeremiah/51-12.htm">Jeremiah 51:12 KJV</a> <a href="//bibleapps.com/jeremiah/51-12.htm">Jeremiah 51:12 BibleApps.com</a> <a href="//bibliaparalela.com/jeremiah/51-12.htm">Jeremiah 51:12 Biblia Paralela</a> <a href="//holybible.com.cn/jeremiah/51-12.htm">Jeremiah 51:12 Chinese Bible</a> <a href="//saintebible.com/jeremiah/51-12.htm">Jeremiah 51:12 French Bible</a> <a href="/catholic/jeremiah/51-12.htm">Jeremiah 51:12 Catholic Bible</a> <a href="/jeremiah/51-12.htm">OT Prophets: Jeremiah 51:12 Set up a standard against the walls (Jer.) </a></div></div></td></tr></table></div><div id="left"><a href="/jeremiah/51-11.htm" onmouseover='lft.src="/leftgif.png"' onmouseout='lft.src="/left.png"' title="Jeremiah 51:11"><img src="/left.png" name="lft" border="0" alt="Jeremiah 51:11" /></a></div><div id="right"><a href="/jeremiah/51-13.htm" onmouseover='rght.src="/rightgif.png"' onmouseout='rght.src="/right.png"' title="Jeremiah 51:13"><img src="/right.png" name="rght" border="0" alt="Jeremiah 51:13" /></a></div><div id="botleft"><a href="#" onmouseover='botleft.src="/botleftgif.png"' onmouseout='botleft.src="/botleft.png"' title="Top of Page"><img src="/botleft.png" name="botleft" border="0" alt="Top of Page" /></a></div><div id="botright"><a href="#" onmouseover='botright.src="/botrightgif.png"' onmouseout='botright.src="/botright.png"' title="Top of Page"><img src="/botright.png" name="botright" border="0" alt="Top of Page" /></a></div><div id="bot"><iframe width="100%" height="1500" scrolling="no" src="/botmenubhnew2.htm" frameborder="0"></iframe></div></td></tr></table></div></body></html>