Jeremiah 37:13 Meaning and Explanation
“And when he was in the gate of Benjamin, a captain of the ward was there, whose name was Irijah, the son of Shelemiah, the son of Hananiah; and he took Jeremiah the prophet, saying, Thou fallest away to the Chaldeans.”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →A military captain named Irijah arrests Jeremiah, accusing him of deserting to the Babylonians.
The Context of Jeremiah 37:13
Jeremiah is arrested at Benjamin's gate and accused of treason.
What Does Jeremiah 37:13 Mean?
At the gate of Benjamin, a military officer named Irijah intercepted Jeremiah and took him into custody. Irijah accused the prophet of planning to defect to the Babylonians—of being a traitor. This accusation, though false, reflected the suspicions many had about Jeremiah because he consistently advised submission to Babylon rather than resistance.
The irony was sharp: Jeremiah was arrested not despite his loyalty to God but because of it. His faithfulness in delivering unpopular truths about God's intentions made him look like a traitor to the nation. The arrest of God's prophet showed how far Jerusalem had drifted from understanding God's will.
Frequently Asked Questions About Jeremiah 37:13
What does Jeremiah 37:13 mean?
A military captain named Irijah arrests Jeremiah, accusing him of deserting to the Babylonians.
What is the context of Jeremiah 37:13?
Jeremiah is arrested at Benjamin's gate and accused of treason.