Jeremiah 40:10 Meaning and Explanation
“As for me, behold, I will dwell at Mizpah, to serve the Chaldeans, which will come unto us: but ye, gather ye wine, and summer fruits, and oil, and put them in your vessels, and dwell in your cities that ye have taken.”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →Gedaliah commits to staying at Mizpah as administrator, while urging the captains to gather harvests and rebuild communities.
The Context of Jeremiah 40:10
Gedaliah directs the military leaders to return to agricultural work and civilian settlement.
What Does Jeremiah 40:10 Mean?
Gedaliah positions himself as the point of contact with Babylon, remaining at Mizpah to manage relations with the occupying power. This administrative responsibility is his burden; the captains and their men are encouraged to step back from military duties and return to civilian life. He essentially tells them to abandon resistance and focus on agricultural recovery.
His command to gather wine, summer fruits, and oil represents a plea for economic restoration. The land still had resources; harvests could be gathered. The military captains are asked to become farmers and settlers, to reinhabit Judah's cities and work toward rebuilding society. This vision of normal life—farming, commerce, community—offered hope after years of warfare.
Frequently Asked Questions About Jeremiah 40:10
What does Jeremiah 40:10 mean?
Gedaliah commits to staying at Mizpah as administrator, while urging the captains to gather harvests and rebuild communities.
What is the context of Jeremiah 40:10?
Gedaliah directs the military leaders to return to agricultural work and civilian settlement.