Jeremiah 37:2
But neither he, nor his servants, nor the people of the land, did hearken unto the words of the LORD, which he spake by the prophet Jeremiah.
Original Language Analysis
Historical Context
Jeremiah prophesied for over forty years (627-586 BCE), yet Judah persisted in covenant violations. The repetitive nature of his warnings (7:13, 25-26; 25:3-4; 35:15) demonstrates both God's patience and Israel's obstinacy. This pattern of persistent prophetic warning followed by judgment validates divine justice—God extensively warned before judging.
The historical fulfillment came swiftly: Jerusalem's destruction (586 BCE), temple burning, population exile. Archaeological evidence confirms the catastrophe's extent. The universal failure to heed prophetic warning meant no innocent parties remained—judgment fell comprehensively because sin pervaded society totally. This foreshadows the New Testament warning: how shall we escape if we neglect so great salvation (Hebrews 2:3)? Greater revelation brings greater accountability.
Questions for Reflection
- How does the distinction between hearing and hearkening (obedient hearing) challenge casual Bible reading without application?
- In what areas might societal consensus in rejecting biblical truth tempt Christians toward compromise?
- How does this comprehensive societal rejection of God's word warn about the consequences of persistent cultural apostasy?
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Analysis & Commentary
But neither he, nor his servants, nor the people of the land, did hearken unto the words of the LORD, which he spake by Jeremiah the prophet. This tragic summary indicts all levels of Judean society: king ("he"), royal administration ("servants"), and general population ("people of the land"). The comprehensive failure to heed God's word explains the comprehensive judgment that follows. The verb "hearken" (shama) means more than auditory hearing—it implies obedient response. They heard Jeremiah's words but refused to obey.
The phrase "words of the LORD, which he spake by Jeremiah" reaffirms prophetic authority. Rejecting Jeremiah wasn't merely dismissing human opinion but refusing divine revelation. This pattern culminates in Israel's rejection of Christ, the ultimate Prophet (Hebrews 1:1-2). The progression is ominous: refuse the prophets, then refuse the Son (Matthew 21:33-39).
Theologically, this verse teaches:
The Reformed emphasis on total depravity finds illustration here—sin affects every social level, not merely individuals.