Jeremiah 44:24
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Jeremiah 44:24
24 Moreover Jeremiah said unto all the people, and to all the women, Hear the word of the LORD, all Judah that are in the land of Egypt:
Chapter Context
Jeremiah 44 is a prophetic oracle chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of creation, covenant, 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 13-20: Central message and teachings
- Verses 21-30: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it provides guidance for worship and spiritual devotion. 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 44:24
24 Moreover Jeremiah said unto all the people, and to all the women, Hear the word of the LORD, all Judah that are in the land of Egypt:
Analysis
Moreover Jeremiah said unto all the people, and to all the women—The prophet specifically addresses hannashim (הַנָּשִׁים, the women) because they were primary practitioners of Queen of Heaven worship (v. 15-19). This prophetic confrontation marks the final recorded sermon of Jeremiah's ministry, delivered to covenant-breakers who fled to Egypt despite divine prohibition (42:19).
Hear the word of the LORD (שִׁמְעוּ דְבַר־יְהוָה)—The imperative shim'u demands attention to Yahweh's authoritative davar (word/decree). The exiles in Egypt had repeatedly refused to hear (v. 16), sealing their covenant rebellion. This public proclamation ensures they face judgment without excuse, establishing God's righteousness in executing covenant curses.
Historical Context
Delivered circa 580 BC to Jewish refugees in Tahpanhes, Egypt, after Jerusalem's fall (586 BC). These exiles had forcibly taken Jeremiah to Egypt (43:6-7), defying God's command to remain in Judah. Egyptian Jewish communities would later establish the Elephantine colony, which syncretized Yahweh worship with Egyptian deities.
Reflection
- When have you selectively ignored specific warnings from Scripture while claiming to follow God in general?
- How does addressing 'all the people, and to all the women' show God's impartiality in holding everyone accountable?
- What does this final sermon reveal about God's patience in giving clear warning before judgment?
Word Studies
- Lord: יְהוָה / אֲדֹנָי (YHWH / Adonai) H3068 - The LORD / Lord
Cross-References
- References Lord: Jeremiah 43:7
- Word: Jeremiah 42:15, 44:26