Jeremiah 41:5 Meaning and Explanation
“That there came certain from Shechem, from Shiloh, and from Samaria, even fourscore men, having their beards shaven, and their clothes rent, and having cut themselves, with offerings and incense in their hand, to bring them to the house of the LORD.”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →Eighty pilgrims from northern cities arrive at Mizpah carrying offerings and incense for the ruins of the Temple in Jerusalem.
The Context of Jeremiah 41:5
A group of mourning pilgrims arrives at Mizpah bound for the ruins of the Temple.
What Does Jeremiah 41:5 Mean?
These pilgrims came from the northern tribal territories, traveling southward with religious devotion despite the destruction of the Temple. Their shaven beards, torn clothes, and self-inflicted wounds were signs of deep mourning and penitence—they came seeking to honor God amid national catastrophe.
Their offerings and incense show hope that worship could continue even at the ruins. Though the Temple was destroyed, they believed God's presence might still be found in that sacred place, or they sought to bring their grief and prayers to what remained.
Jeremiah 41:5 in the Original Language
rent (קָרַע, qara) — to tear, rend. Tearing garments was the standard expression of deep mourning and distress in ancient Israel.
Frequently Asked Questions About Jeremiah 41:5
What does Jeremiah 41:5 mean?
Eighty pilgrims from northern cities arrive at Mizpah carrying offerings and incense for the ruins of the Temple in Jerusalem.
What is the context of Jeremiah 41:5?
A group of mourning pilgrims arrives at Mizpah bound for the ruins of the Temple.