Jeremiah 36:17
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Jeremiah 36:17
17 And they asked Baruch, saying, Tell us now, How didst thou write all these words at his mouth?
Chapter Context
Jeremiah 36 is a prophetic oracle chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of worship, redemption, sacrifice. 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 21-32: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it reveals key aspects of God's character through divine actions and declarations. 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 36:17
17 And they asked Baruch, saying, Tell us now, How didst thou write all these words at his mouth?
Analysis
And they asked Baruch, saying, Tell us now, How didst thou write all these words at his mouth?—The question probes the scroll's origin and authenticity. At his mouth (מִפִּיו, mipiv) emphasizes direct dictation. The princes need to verify this is genuinely Jeremiah's prophecy, not Baruch's invention or interpretation.
Their investigation is procedurally sound: authenticating the source before presenting it to the king. The question also reflects ancient understanding of prophetic inspiration—the prophet speaks what God reveals, the scribe records what the prophet speaks. This chain of transmission (God → Jeremiah → Baruch → scroll) establishes authority while acknowledging human instrumentality in Scripture's production.
Historical Context
Scribal practices in ancient Israel involved careful dictation and copying. The question about composition addresses potential charges of forgery or unauthorized prophecy. False prophecy was a capital offense (Deuteronomy 18:20), so verification was crucial. The princes' care in investigating suggests they took prophetic claims seriously, unlike the cynical dismissal characteristic of later leadership.
Reflection
- How important is the doctrine of biblical inspiration (God's word through human authors) to your confidence in Scripture?
- What does Baruch's role as faithful scribe teach about preserving and transmitting God's word accurately?
- How do you verify that what you're hearing or reading is authentic biblical truth rather than human invention?
Word Studies
- Word: דָּבָר (Davar) H1697 - Word, thing, matter
Cross-References
- Parallel theme: John 9:15