Jeremiah 41:17 Meaning and Explanation
“And they departed, and dwelt in the habitation of Chimham, which is by Bethlehem, to go to enter into Egypt,”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →Johanan's group travels to Chimham, an area near Bethlehem, with the intention of seeking refuge in Egypt.
The Context of Jeremiah 41:17
The refugees gather near Bethlehem, preparing to flee to Egypt.
What Does Jeremiah 41:17 Mean?
Chimham may have been an estate or settlement that offered temporary refuge. Located near Bethlehem, it provided a staging ground south of Jerusalem where the refugees could rest and prepare. Their stated intention was to continue south and southwest into Egypt.
The decision to flee to Egypt shows the depth of the crisis. Rather than trust that the Babylonians would eventually establish order, Johanan chose to remove the refugees from Babylonian-controlled territory entirely. Egypt represented the last major power in the Near East that might offer asylum.
Frequently Asked Questions About Jeremiah 41:17
What does Jeremiah 41:17 mean?
Johanan's group travels to Chimham, an area near Bethlehem, with the intention of seeking refuge in Egypt.
What is the context of Jeremiah 41:17?
The refugees gather near Bethlehem, preparing to flee to Egypt.