Jeremiah 36:20 Meaning and Explanation
“And they went in to the king into the court, but they laid up the roll in the chamber of Elishama the scribe, and told all the words in the ears of the king.”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →The officials go to the king, first securing the scroll in a safe location before reporting its contents to Jehoiakim.
The Context of Jeremiah 36:20
The officials hide the scroll, then inform King Jehoiakim of its contents.
What Does Jeremiah 36:20 Mean?
Before facing the king, the officials ensure the scroll is hidden in Elishama's chamber—a vault of safety. This tactical choice suggests they anticipate Jehoiakim's destructive reaction. They will report the words orally, preserving the physical document in case it survives the king's rage.
The officials 'tell all the words' to the king—the complete message, not a sanitized version. They do their duty of informing their sovereign, even knowing it will displease him. They have discharged their responsibility with integrity.
Frequently Asked Questions About Jeremiah 36:20
What does Jeremiah 36:20 mean?
The officials go to the king, first securing the scroll in a safe location before reporting its contents to Jehoiakim.
What is the context of Jeremiah 36:20?
The officials hide the scroll, then inform King Jehoiakim of its contents.