Jeremiah 38:25 Meaning and Explanation
“But if the princes hear that I have talked with thee, and they come unto thee, and say unto thee, Declare unto us now what thou hast said unto the king, hide it not from us, and we will not put thee to death; also what the king said unto thee:”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →Zedekiah anticipates that the princes will interrogate Jeremiah about their conversation and threaten him.
The Context of Jeremiah 38:25
Zedekiah prepares Jeremiah for likely interrogation.
What Does Jeremiah 38:25 Mean?
The king fears the princes will discover the private meeting and will pressure Jeremiah to reveal what was said. He foresees that they will use both threat (death) and promise (immunity) to extract information. Zedekiah is acknowledging the princes' power to interrogate and his own inability to prevent it.
This anxiety shows Zedekiah's understanding that the princes, not he, hold real power in Jerusalem. His swearing to Jeremiah's safety is hollow if he cannot actually protect the prophet from his own officials. The king is caught between his oath to Jeremiah and his fear of those who oppose him.
Frequently Asked Questions About Jeremiah 38:25
What does Jeremiah 38:25 mean?
Zedekiah anticipates that the princes will interrogate Jeremiah about their conversation and threaten him.
What is the context of Jeremiah 38:25?
Zedekiah prepares Jeremiah for likely interrogation.