Jeremiah 45:2
Thus saith the LORD, the God of Israel, unto thee, O Baruch;
Original Language Analysis
כֹּֽה
H3541
כֹּֽה
Strong's:
H3541
Word #:
1 of 7
properly, like this, i.e., by implication, (of manner) thus (or so); also (of place) here (or hither); or (of time) now
יְהוָ֖ה
the LORD
H3068
יְהוָ֖ה
the LORD
Strong's:
H3068
Word #:
3 of 7
(the) self-existent or eternal; jeho-vah, jewish national name of god
אֱלֹהֵ֣י
the God
H430
אֱלֹהֵ֣י
the God
Strong's:
H430
Word #:
4 of 7
gods in the ordinary sense; but specifically used (in the plural thus, especially with the article) of the supreme god; occasionally applied by way of
יִשְׂרָאֵ֑ל
of Israel
H3478
יִשְׂרָאֵ֑ל
of Israel
Strong's:
H3478
Word #:
5 of 7
he will rule as god; jisral, a symbolical name of jacob; also (typically) of his posterity
Historical Context
Chronologically, chapter 45 belongs with chapter 36 (605 BC, fourth year of Jehoiakim), making it one of Jeremiah's earliest recorded messages. Baruch ben Neriah is archaeologically attested through a bulla (seal impression) bearing his name, providing extrabiblical confirmation of this historical figure.
Questions for Reflection
- Why does God address Baruch personally rather than simply through Jeremiah's general prophecies?
- How does the title 'God of Israel' comfort believers during national apostasy and judgment?
- What does this personal oracle teach about God's care for faithful servants in obscure roles?
Related Resources
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Analysis & Commentary
Thus saith the LORD, the God of Israel, unto thee, O Baruch—The prophetic formula introduces a personal oracle to Jeremiah's faithful scribe Baruch ben Neriah. The title Elohei Yisrael (אֱלֹהֵי יִשְׂרָאֵל, God of Israel) emphasizes covenant relationship despite national apostasy. This chapter provides rare biblical insight into a secondary figure's spiritual struggle during catastrophic times.
Baruch's name (בָּרוּךְ, 'blessed') ironically contrasts with his complaint in v. 3. The personal divine address honors his faithful service—copying Jeremiah's prophecies (36:4, 32), reading them publicly despite persecution (36:10), and sharing the prophet's suffering. God speaks to discouraged servants.