Jeremiah 27:17 Meaning and Explanation
“Hearken not unto them; serve the king of Babylon, and live: wherefore should this city be laid waste?”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →The only path to preserving Jerusalem is submission to Babylon's king.
The Context of Jeremiah 27:17
Submission to Babylon is the sole means of preserving Jerusalem.
What Does Jeremiah 27:17 Mean?
The command is urgent and direct: do not listen to those who promise deliverance, but instead serve Babylon's king. Life itself depends on this choice. The alternative is the destruction of Jerusalem itself—the city becoming desolate and empty.
The rhetorical question "wherefore should this city be laid waste?" appeals to the deepest fear and attachment of its inhabitants. Why allow Jerusalem to be destroyed when submission ensures its preservation? The logic is unassailable: only obedience to God's word through Jeremiah saves the city.
Frequently Asked Questions About Jeremiah 27:17
What does Jeremiah 27:17 mean?
The only path to preserving Jerusalem is submission to Babylon's king.
What is the context of Jeremiah 27:17?
Submission to Babylon is the sole means of preserving Jerusalem.