Jeremiah 27:20 Meaning and Explanation
“Which Nebuchadnezzar king of Babylon took not, when he carried away captive Jeconiah the son of Jehoiakim king of Judah from Jerusalem to Babylon, and all the nobles of Judah and Jerusalem;”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →Earlier captivity under Nebuchadnezzar had already removed Judah's king and nobles but left some Temple vessels.
The Context of Jeremiah 27:20
Earlier captivity removed Judah's king but left some Temple vessels.
What Does Jeremiah 27:20 Mean?
When Nebuchadnezzar first took Jeconiah (also called Jehoiachin) into captivity, the Babylonians seized the king and nobility but left some Temple equipment behind. This partial captivity might have seemed merciful or suggested that God was limiting Babylon's power. Yet the later chapters of this prophecy will show that more deportations and removal await.
The reference to Jeconiah and the nobles highlights that the leadership—those most capable of resistance or negotiation—were already gone. The kingdom was already diminished when God spoke through Jeremiah. The remaining vessels will follow, but only if Judah continues to resist submission.
Frequently Asked Questions About Jeremiah 27:20
What does Jeremiah 27:20 mean?
Earlier captivity under Nebuchadnezzar had already removed Judah's king and nobles but left some Temple vessels.
What is the context of Jeremiah 27:20?
Earlier captivity removed Judah's king but left some Temple vessels.