Jeremiah 29:26 Meaning and Explanation
“The LORD hath made thee priest in the stead of Jehoiada the priest, that ye should be officers in the house of the LORD, for every man that is mad, and maketh himself a prophet, that thou shouldest put him in prison, and in the stocks.”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →Shemaiah's letter appeals to the priest to arrest anyone claiming prophecy, including false prophets.
The Context of Jeremiah 29:26
Shemaiah encourages the priests to arrest anyone claiming prophecy.
What Does Jeremiah 29:26 Mean?
Shemaiah's message to the Jerusalem priests is cunning: he appeals to their role as maintainers of order in the temple. He tells them they have authority to arrest and imprison anyone who acts as a prophet, especially those who are 'mad' or delusional. This appears to be an attempt to get the priests to suppress Jeremiah.
Shemaiah frames his appeal in terms of institutional order and priestly duty. By calling prophets 'mad,' he delegitimizes the prophetic office itself. His strategy is to use the priests' authority against the true prophetic word—an attempt to silence God's messenger through official channels.
Frequently Asked Questions About Jeremiah 29:26
What does Jeremiah 29:26 mean?
Shemaiah's letter appeals to the priest to arrest anyone claiming prophecy, including false prophets.
What is the context of Jeremiah 29:26?
Shemaiah encourages the priests to arrest anyone claiming prophecy.