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Verse Takeaways
1
A Sarcastic Command
Commentators explain that Jeremiah's command for Egypt to 'go up into Gilead, and take balm' is a form of triumphant irony. He is taunting the proud nation, telling them to seek the best possible remedy while knowing their wound—a devastating defeat at God's hand—is incurable. The term 'virgin daughter' is also used mockingly to highlight their lost, boasted-of invincibility.
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Book Overview
Jeremiah
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Commentaries
5
Albert Barnes
On Jeremiah 46:11
18th Century
Theologian
Balm—that is, balsam, the usual remedy for wounds (Jeremiah 8:22).
In vain shalt ...—Or, in vain hast…
Charles Ellicott
On Jeremiah 46:11
19th Century
Bishop
Go up into Gilead, and take balm ... —The words have the tone of a triumphant irony. The “balm of Gilead” was regarded as…
John Calvin
On Jeremiah 46:11
16th Century
Theologian
The Prophet adds nothing new here, but confirms by another metaphor what he had said before. He then says that the slaughter would be like a fatal …
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John Gill
On Jeremiah 46:11
17th Century
Pastor
Still the irony or sarcasm is continued.
Gilead was a place in the land of Israel famous for balm or balsam, used in curing wounds; see ([Re…
Matthew Henry
On Jeremiah 46:1–12
17th Century
Minister
The whole word of God is against those who do not obey the gospel of Christ; but it is for those, even Gentiles, who turn to Him. The prophecy begi…