Jeremiah 40:14 Meaning and Explanation
“And said unto him, Dost thou certainly know that Baalis the king of the Ammonites hath sent Ishmael the son of Nethaniah to slay thee? But Gedaliah the son of Ahikam believed them not.”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →Johanan warns Gedaliah that Baalis of Ammon sent Ishmael to assassinate him, but Gedaliah refuses to believe the warning.
The Context of Jeremiah 40:14
Johanan warns of an assassination plot against Gedaliah that the governor refuses to believe.
What Does Jeremiah 40:14 Mean?
Johanan delivers a stunning accusation: Baalis, king of Ammon, hired Ishmael (one of Gedaliah's own commanders) to kill him. This treachery would serve Baalis by destabilizing Judah and preventing it from becoming a stable vassal state under Babylon. Yet Gedaliah rejects Johanan's warning outright, choosing to trust Ishmael despite the intelligence.
Gedaliah's refusal to believe reflects either extraordinary faith in Ishmael's loyalty or a fatal blindness to political reality. In a conquered land with fragmented loyalties, assassination attempts were realistic threats. The governor's skepticism proves costly; his refusal to take preventive action sets the stage for tragedy.
Jeremiah 40:14 in the Original Language
Baalis (בַעֲלִיס), 'Baalis' — the king of Ammon, likely threatened by Gedaliah's stable administration which would strengthen Judah's position.
Frequently Asked Questions About Jeremiah 40:14
What does Jeremiah 40:14 mean?
Johanan warns Gedaliah that Baalis of Ammon sent Ishmael to assassinate him, but Gedaliah refuses to believe the warning.
What is the context of Jeremiah 40:14?
Johanan warns of an assassination plot against Gedaliah that the governor refuses to believe.