The word ‘hindmost’ appears in the Bible and holds significant meaning in various contexts. It generally refers to something that is last, furthest, or at the back. Understanding the biblical use of ‘hindmost’ provides insight into spiritual teachings, prophetic messages, and historical references found in Scripture.
This topic explores the definition of hindmost, its use in the Bible, and its spiritual implications for believers today.
Definition of Hindmost
The term hindmost is an old English word derived from ‘hind,’ meaning back or rear, and the suffix ‘-most,’ which means farthest. Together, it describes the last in position, the furthest behind, or the one at the end of a group.
In biblical passages, hindmost is often used to describe:
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A group of people or army at the rear.
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Those who are weak, vulnerable, or left behind.
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Prophetic symbolism regarding nations and judgments.
Biblical References to Hindmost
1. Hindmost in the Old Testament
The word ‘hindmost’ appears in key Old Testament passages, often referring to military formations, judgments, and prophetic warnings.
A. The Attack on Israel’s Weakest (Deuteronomy 25:18)
One of the most notable uses of ‘hindmost’ in the King James Version (KJV) is found in Deuteronomy 25:18, where Moses reminds Israel of the Amalekites’ treacherous attack:
‘How he met thee by the way, and smote the hindmost of thee, even all that were feeble behind thee, when thou wast faint and weary; and he feared not God.’ (Deuteronomy 25:18, KJV)
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The Amalekites attacked the hindmost or the weakest members of Israel as they journeyed through the wilderness.
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This included the elderly, sick, and weary who struggled to keep up with the main group.
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God later commanded Israel to remember this injustice and to wipe out the Amalekites (Deuteronomy 25:19).
Spiritual Lesson:
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The enemy often targets the weakest-whether physically, emotionally, or spiritually.
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Believers should strengthen and support those who are struggling in faith.
B. Prophecy Against Babylon (Jeremiah 50:12)
In Jeremiah 50:12, ‘hindmost’ is used in a prophetic judgment against Babylon:
‘Your mother shall be sore confounded; she that bare you shall be ashamed: behold, the hindermost of the nations shall be a wilderness, a dry land, and a desert.’ (Jeremiah 50:12, KJV)
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Babylon, once a powerful empire, would become the hindmost-a nation brought low.
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It symbolizes how prideful nations can fall under God’s judgment.
Spiritual Lesson:
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No earthly power is greater than God’s sovereignty.
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Nations and individuals who exalt themselves will be humbled (Luke 14:11).
2. Hindmost in the New Testament
While the exact word ‘hindmost’ is not frequently used in the New Testament, similar concepts appear in Jesus’ teachings.
A. The Last Shall Be First (Matthew 20:16)
Jesus often spoke about reversals in God’s kingdom:
‘So the last shall be first, and the first last: for many be called, but few chosen.’ (Matthew 20:16, KJV)
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This aligns with the meaning of ‘hindmost,’ as those who are last will be lifted up.
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Jesus teaches that humility and faithfulness are more important than worldly status.
Spiritual Lesson:
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God sees the overlooked and forgotten.
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The weak and humble will be honored in the kingdom of heaven.
The Spiritual Significance of Hindmost
The concept of ‘hindmost’ in Scripture provides important spiritual insights for believers today.
1. God Cares for the Weary and Weak
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The Amalekite attack on Israel’s hindmost reminds us that the enemy preys on the vulnerable.
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But God is a protector of the weak, calling believers to care for those who are struggling.
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Jesus said, ‘Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.’ (Matthew 11:28, KJV).
2. Judgment on the Proud and Rebellious
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Babylon, once mighty, became the hindmost as a result of its rebellion against God.
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This serves as a warning that those who trust in power and wealth rather than in God will fall.
3. The Last Shall Be First
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In the kingdom of God, status is reversed.
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Those who are last in this world may be first in the next.
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Jesus’ teaching encourages humility, service, and perseverance in faith.
Practical Applications for Believers
1. Look After the Hindmost in Your Community
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Support the weak, elderly, and struggling members of your church.
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Encourage those who feel left behind or forgotten.
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Pray for those who are spiritually weary.
2. Trust in God’s Justice
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The Amalekites attacked the hindmost, but God later judged them.
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Babylon rose to power but was later humbled.
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God defends His people and brings justice in His perfect time.
3. Embrace Humility and Service
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Do not seek worldly greatness-instead, seek to serve others.
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Jesus washed His disciples’ feet as an example of humble service (John 13:14-15).
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Those who are faithful and humble will be honored by God.
The term hindmost in the Bible carries deep spiritual meaning. It represents the weak and vulnerable, prophetic judgment, and God’s kingdom principles of humility and justice.
From Israel’s experience with the Amalekites to Babylon’s downfall and Jesus’ teachings, the Bible shows that God protects the weak, humbles the proud, and lifts up the last.
As believers, we are called to:
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Support those who struggle.
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Trust in God’s justice.
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Live humbly and serve others.
In the end, the hindmost in this world may be first in the kingdom of God.