Habakkuk 2:6–20 is a taunt or mocking song directed at the wickedness of Babylon consisting of five stanzas. Each stanza contains a woe oracle—a denunciation of the evil committed and a notice of impending judgment. The first woe speaks against those who acquire their wealth dishonestly (vv. 6–8). The second tackles those who build luxurious houses dishonestly (vv. 9–11), while the third woe is directed against those who build cities and towns dishonestly (vv. 12–14). The fourth woe pictures Chaldea/Babylon as someone who uses liquor to manipulate his neighbors to expose them to shame (vv. 15–17). The last woe condemns those who practice idolatry (vv. 18–20).
Check out our other commentaries:
-
Colossians 2:13-15 meaning
The incredible work of Jesus on the cross transformed the physical and spiritual world....... -
Nahum 2:8-10 meaning
Nahum now describes the consequences of the scatterer’s attack upon Nineveh. The city will become desolate, causing the Ninevites to suffer pain and agony....... -
Numbers 5:11-15 meaning
The next subject, which is called “the law of jealousy” in Numbers 5:31, is discussed in verses 11-31. It concerns marital infidelity that was suspected...... -
Deuteronomy 23:24-25 meaning
Moses told the Israelites that they could eat from their neighbors’ vineyard or standing grain. They were, however, prohibited from gathering more fruits or grain...... -
Genesis 21:31-34 meaning
Abraham names the place where he made an oath with Abimelech, “Beersheba.” After the covenant is made, Abraham plants a tree at Beersheba and prays......
