Jeremiah 38:18 Meaning and Explanation
“But if thou wilt not go forth to the king of Babylon's princes, then shall this city be given into the hand of the Chaldeans, and they shall burn it with fire, and thou shalt not escape out of their hand.”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →If Zedekiah refuses to surrender, the city will be burned and he will be captured.
The Context of Jeremiah 38:18
Jeremiah warns of the consequences of refusing surrender.
What Does Jeremiah 38:18 Mean?
The alternative is as clear as the promise: refusal brings judgment. The city will be given to the Chaldeans, burned, and Zedekiah will not escape capture. This is not threat but prophecy of inevitable consequence. The choice is binary: surrender to the princes and live, or resist the princes and be taken in ruin.
The symmetry of the prophecy reinforces its weight. Life versus death, city spared versus burned, escape versus capture—the stakes are absolute. Jeremiah presents the choice without ambiguity, leaving the king without excuse. What follows will show whether Zedekiah can accept the wisdom offered.
Frequently Asked Questions About Jeremiah 38:18
What does Jeremiah 38:18 mean?
If Zedekiah refuses to surrender, the city will be burned and he will be captured.
What is the context of Jeremiah 38:18?
Jeremiah warns of the consequences of refusing surrender.