The Tanakh Podcast

Two prophecies that predict the military defeat of Egypt by Nebuchadnezzar and its subsequent invasion. But why does Jeremiah need to speak against gentile nations?

Chapter 45 is a prophecy directed at Baruch ben Neriah, Jeremiah's scribe and assistant. Why does Baruch warrant his own chapter?

The Jews of Pathros in Egypt challenge the fundamental covenantal theology of Judaism, asserting that when Israel worshipped idols, their national fortunes improved; it is faith in God that has brought nation ruin.

The surviving remnant, including Jeremiah leave the Land of Israel, and make their way to Egypt. in contravention of God's prophecy. Why is the descent to Egypt worse than the exile in Babylon?

After Gedalia's assassination the people request that Jeremiah appeal to God to guide them what to do. God responds to Jeremiah but the people should remain in the land and not migrate down to Egypt.

Our chapter describes the Assassination of Babylonian Governor - Gedaliah. In the narrative, two side-references are made to two places which each signify awful instances of Jewish in-fighting.

In the initial segment of this chapter we read how Jeremiah is given the choice to go to Babylon as an ally and a guest of the Babylonians. He refuses. He wants to stay amongst the people. In the second segment of the chapter we meet Gedalia the official who is appointed by the Babylonians as the governor of the land of Israel. Who is he? What is his agenda? And who are his opponents?

In this chapter we read about the fall of Jerusalem. What becomes of King Zedekiah? What will befall Jeremiah?

Jeremiah is thrown into a cistern and submerged in mud. Surprisingly a foreigner Eved-Melekh the Kushite, saves his life!

This chapter sees Jeremiah arrested as a suspected accomplice with the Babylonians. But what rings through the chapter is the spineless character of King Zedekiah.