Jeremiah 32:3 Meaning and Explanation
“For Zedekiah king of Judah had shut him up, saying, Wherefore dost thou prophesy, and say, Thus saith the LORD, Behold, I will give this city into the hand of the king of Babylon, and he shall take it;”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →Zedekiah imprisoned Jeremiah for prophesying that God will give the city to the king of Babylon.
The Context of Jeremiah 32:3
Reason for Jeremiah's confinement.
What Does Jeremiah 32:3 Mean?
Jeremiah's message is too unwelcome for the king to tolerate. He has prophesied military defeat and divine surrender of the city—a message that contradicts the court's hopes and political interests. Zedekiah's response is imprisonment, not refutation.
This imprisonment illustrates a recurring biblical pattern: truth-telling that contradicts power is often met with force rather than argument. The prophet speaks the Lord's word; the king silences the messenger.
Jeremiah 32:3 in the Original Language
ָאַמַר (amar), 'said'—a common Hebrew verb for utterance; here it conveys the prophet's bold public declaration.
Frequently Asked Questions About Jeremiah 32:3
What does Jeremiah 32:3 mean?
Zedekiah imprisoned Jeremiah for prophesying that God will give the city to the king of Babylon.
What is the context of Jeremiah 32:3?
Reason for Jeremiah's confinement.