Definition: Babylon [hath been] a golden cup in the LORD’S hand, that made all the earth drunken: the nations have drunken of her wine; therefore the nations are mad.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Jeremiah 51:7. It’s a really powerful and dramatic statement about the destruction of Babylon. Here’s a simplified explanation: What it means: “Jeremiah 51:7” refers to a specific event in ancient history – the siege and destruction of Babylon by Judah during the Babylonian exile (around 609 BCE). “Babylon [hath been] a golden cup in the LORD’S hand…” This is the key image. Jeremiah is saying that Babylon was designed to be a symbol of something beautiful, luxurious, and ultimately destructive – like a golden cup. It's being positioned as something precious and desirable by God. “…that made all the earth drunken:” This means Babylon’s prosperity and lavishness led to widespread chaos and unrest among nations. People were intoxicated by its wealth and power, leading to disorder and even madness. What it’s saying: Jeremiah is describing a situation where Babylon's excessive displays of wealth and power created a dangerous and destabilizing environment. It wasn’t just a simple problem; it was actively causing chaos. The nations were drinking from the cup, and that cup was being used to create disorder. What’s the overall message? The verse conveys a sense of divine judgment and the consequences of pride and wickedness. It warns against complacency and encourages faithfulness to God, as God is ultimately in control and will restore what is rightfully his. It suggests that Babylon's lavishness was a sign of their rebellion against God and their desire for power at any cost. In short: Babylon was portrayed as a tempting, beautiful, and ultimately destructive symbol of worldly ambition that caused widespread chaos and suffering. --- Do you want me to explain any specific part of this verse in more detail? For example, I could delve deeper into: The historical context of the siege of Babylon The symbolism of “golden cup” The message of warning it conveys