Jeremiah 43:2
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Jeremiah 43:2
2 Then spake Azariah the son of Hoshaiah, and Johanan the son of Kareah, and all the proud men, saying unto Jeremiah, Thou speakest falsely: the LORD our God hath not sent thee to say, Go not into Egypt to sojourn there:
Chapter Context
Jeremiah 43 is a prophetic oracle chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of obedience, mercy, wisdom. 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 13-13: Central message and teachings
This chapter is significant because it illustrates divine judgment and mercy in response to human actions. 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 43:2
2 Then spake Azariah the son of Hoshaiah, and Johanan the son of Kareah, and all the proud men, saying unto Jeremiah, Thou speakest falsely: the LORD our God hath not sent thee to say, Go not into Egypt to sojourn there:
Analysis
Azariah and Johanan refuse God's clear word, accusing Jeremiah of speaking falsely under Baruch's influence. This illustrates the heart's ability to reject truth by impugning the messenger. They asked for God's word (42:2-3), pledged to obey (42:6), but reject it when it contradicts their desires. Unbelief always finds excuses to dismiss God's word.
Historical Context
They blamed Baruch, Jeremiah's scribe, for supposedly manipulating the prophet. This conspiracy theory allowed them to rationalize disobedience to clear divine direction.
Reflection
- How do you rationalize away God's word when it contradicts your desires?
- What defense mechanisms do you use to dismiss biblical teaching you don't want to follow?
Word Studies
- God: אֱלֹהִים (Elohim) H430 - God (plural of majesty)
Cross-References
- References God: Jeremiah 43:1, 2 Chronicles 36:13, James 4:6, 1 Peter 5:5
- References Lord: Jeremiah 13:15, Proverbs 16:5
- Parallel theme: Jeremiah 40:8, 42:1, Isaiah 7:9