Habakkuk 2 explained: Wait, the Tyrant Will Fall

Waiting for an answer (vv. 1-3)

Habakkuk has protested that God would let ruthless Babylon crush Judah, so he waits for a reply like a guard on a city wall. God tells him to write the answer plainly on tablets, either so a messenger can run with it or so anyone can read it quickly (scholars are unsure which), because it will come true even if it seems slow.

The proud and the faithful (vv. 4-5)

The arrogant conqueror, Babylon, is never satisfied, swallowing nations the way the grave swallows the dead. By contrast, the person who is right with God will live by staying faithful and trusting, and Christians later read this line, quoted by Paul, as meaning people are made right with God through faith.

The plunderer plundered (vv. 6-8)

The conquered nations now sing a mocking song, the first of five 'woes,' which are cries announcing doom. Babylon is pictured as a ruthless lender piling up other people's goods, and its victims will one day rise and take everything back.

Built on blood (vv. 9-14)

Babylon built high, safe-looking palaces and cities from stolen wealth and killing, yet the very stones and beams will cry out as witnesses against it. All that effort will end as fuel for fire, while what finally fills the earth is the knowledge of the LORD's glory, as water fills the sea.

Shame repaid with shame (vv. 15-17)

This harsh picture shows someone getting neighbors drunk in order to strip and humiliate them, which many readers take as an image of Babylon leaving conquered nations helpless and exposed. Now Babylon must drink from the LORD's 'cup' of judgment and be shamed in turn, paying too for its violence against Lebanon, probably the stripping of its forests and wildlife.

Idols and the living God (vv. 18-20)

The last woe mocks idols of wood and stone that are covered in gold but cannot breathe, speak or guide. In contrast, the LORD is present in his holy temple, and the whole earth, mighty Babylon included, is called to fall silent before him.

Key verse: Habakkuk 2:4

Where Christians differ

Christians differ on whether verse 4 is mainly about trusting God in order to be made right with him, as Paul used it, or about loyal endurance under oppression in its original setting, though many hold both together.

Something to think about

When an injustice seems to go on and on, what makes it easier or harder for you to believe things will ever be put right?