Jeremiah 37:17-21

17-21. The bearing of Jeremiah in the presence of the king is a model of honesty, dignity, and simplicity. He plainly reaffirms the offensive message without softening it in the least. He then remonstrates with the king because of his treatment, and calls his attention to the fact that others had prophesied falsely in this matter. If, then, any should be punished severely, surely it should not be he who had timely told the truth. This frank appeal was successful, and the king gave command to soften the rigours of his imprisonment.

Piece of bread Rather, loaf of bread.

Bakers’ street Suggesting that in Jerusalem, as is common in modern oriental towns, the different, occupations or trades had come to have their respective quarters.

Court of the prison See Jeremiah 32:2.