Jeremiah 38:4 Meaning and Explanation
“Therefore the princes said unto the king, We beseech thee, let this man be put to death: for thus he weakeneth the hands of the men of war that remain in this city, and the hands of all the people, in speaking such words unto them: for this man seeketh not the welfare of this people, but the hurt.”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →The princes demand Jeremiah's death, saying his words destroy morale and harm the people.
The Context of Jeremiah 38:4
The leaders move to execute Jeremiah for demoralizing speech.
What Does Jeremiah 38:4 Mean?
The princes interpret prophetic speech as military sabotage. They see Jeremiah's message not as truth to be weighed but as a weapon weakening their soldiers' resolve and the populace's will to fight. In crisis, they act to silence the voice they perceive as undermining their defense.
They accuse him of disloyalty—seeking the people's hurt rather than welfare. This reverses the actual narrative: Jeremiah brings a message of life (surrender and survive) while the princes choose a path that will lead to greater suffering. Yet from their vantage, the prophet appears treacherous.
Jeremiah 38:4 in the Original Language
raphah (רָפַף), 'weakeneth'—to cause to sink, fail, or lose strength; reflects both military collapse and emotional despair.
Frequently Asked Questions About Jeremiah 38:4
What does Jeremiah 38:4 mean?
The princes demand Jeremiah's death, saying his words destroy morale and harm the people.
What is the context of Jeremiah 38:4?
The leaders move to execute Jeremiah for demoralizing speech.