Jeremiah 29:16 Meaning and Explanation
“Know that thus saith the LORD of the king that sitteth upon the throne of David, and of all the people that dwelleth in this city, and of your brethren that are not gone forth with you into captivity;”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →God turns attention to those still in Jerusalem: the king and people who were not exiled.
The Context of Jeremiah 29:16
God now addresses those who remained in Jerusalem rather than being exiled.
What Does Jeremiah 29:16 Mean?
God's attention now shifts from the exiles in Babylon to those who remain in Jerusalem. These people—the king on David's throne and those who escaped the first deportations—will receive a different message. Their failure to respond to the earlier exile makes them vulnerable to a different kind of judgment.
The verse creates a contrast between the faithful exiles (who will be restored) and the faithless remnant in Jerusalem (who will face judgment). The stage is set for God to address those who thought themselves secure by virtue of remaining in the land.
Frequently Asked Questions About Jeremiah 29:16
What does Jeremiah 29:16 mean?
God turns attention to those still in Jerusalem: the king and people who were not exiled.
What is the context of Jeremiah 29:16?
God now addresses those who remained in Jerusalem rather than being exiled.