Jeremiah 14:18
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Jeremiah 14:18
18 If I go forth into the field, then behold the slain with the sword! and if I enter into the city, then behold them that are sick with famine! yea, both the prophet and the priest go about into a land that they know not.
Chapter Context
Jeremiah 14 is a prophetic oracle chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of salvation, worship, love. Written during the final years of Judah and early exile (c. 627-580 BCE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: Prophesied during Judah's final years as Babylon became the dominant power.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-12: Development of key themes
- Verses 13-20: Central message and teachings
- Verses 21-22: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it provides essential context for understanding God's covenant relationship with His people. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within Jeremiah and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
Jeremiah 14:18
18 If I go forth into the field, then behold the slain with the sword! and if I enter into the city, then behold them that are sick with famine! yea, both the prophet and the priest go about into a land that they know not.
Analysis
The vision of devastation continues: 'If I go forth into the field, then behold the slain with the sword! and if I enter into the city, then behold them that are sick with famine!' No escape exists: countryside brings death by sword (warfare), city brings death by famine (siege). The final observation about religious leaders: 'yea, the prophet and the priest go about into a land that they know not.' This likely depicts exile—even spiritual leaders are displaced, wandering in foreign lands. The comprehensive nature of judgment means no location, social class, or profession escapes. The leaders who should have guided the people share their fate.
Historical Context
The Babylonian conquest brought death by warfare in rural areas and by starvation in besieged cities. Afterward, survivors including priests and prophets were exiled to Babylon, fulfilling this prophecy.
Reflection
- How does the inescapability of judgment (field or city) demonstrate its comprehensive nature?
- What does the exile of spiritual leaders teach about shared responsibility and consequences?
- How should leaders' participation in judgment affect their sense of accountability for those they lead?
Word Studies
- Priest: כֹּהֵן (Kohen) H3548 - Priest
Cross-References
- Prophecy: Jeremiah 5:31, 6:13, 8:10
- Word: Lamentations 1:20, Ezekiel 7:15
- Parallel theme: Deuteronomy 28:36