Jeremiah 21:1-10

Jeremiah’s Twelfth Prophecy (Reign of Zedekiah during the Siege). Zedekiah’s Roll

This chapter commences a new division of the book extending to the end of Jeremiah 24. We pass from the time of Jehoiakim to that of the last king of Judah, when Jerusalem was attacked by the Chaldeans. The city must be taken, but surrender may still ensure safety.

1-10. The king’s appeal to the prophet, and the reply.

1. Pashur] see on Jeremiah 20:2. Zephaniah] mentioned again Jeremiah 29:25; Jeremiah 37:3; Jeremiah 52:24. In Jeremiah 52 he is spoken of as ’the second priest,’ meaning next in rank to the high priest. Both men were for resisting Nebuchadnezzar.

2. Nebuchadrezzar] meaning, ’O Nebo, defend the landmark’. It is a more correct spelling than ’Nebuchadnezzar’ in Jeremiah 34:1.

4. The defenders will be driven back into the city.

9. He that goeth out, etc.] Many acted upon this suggestion: see Jeremiah 39:9; Jeremiah 52:16. His life shall be unto him for a prey] i.e. he shall snatch it from destruction.

10. He shall burn it with fire] see Jeremiah 52:13.