Jeremiah 42:14 Meaning and Explanation
“Saying, No; but we will go into the land of Egypt, where we shall see no war, nor hear the sound of the trumpet, nor have hunger of bread; and there will we dwell:”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →God describes the false hope that motivates the people—the belief that Egypt offers safety and security.
The Context of Jeremiah 42:14
The people desire to flee to Egypt where they believe safety awaits.
What Does Jeremiah 42:14 Mean?
God articulates the people's unspoken desire. They want to flee to Egypt because it seems to promise what Judah cannot: 'no war,' 'no sound of the trumpet' (military threat), and 'no hunger.' Egypt appears stable, powerful, and safe—a refuge from the chaos of Judah. This is the practical reasoning driving them toward disobedience. They are not rejecting God out of malice but out of fear and self-preservation.
The word 'No' at the beginning is their rejection of God's offer. Instead of accepting restoration in their own land, they choose flight to a foreign land. Their logic is understandable—Egypt is an economic powerhouse with resources and security. But God's offer combines security with belonging; Egypt's promise is merely survival without home.
Frequently Asked Questions About Jeremiah 42:14
What does Jeremiah 42:14 mean?
God describes the false hope that motivates the people—the belief that Egypt offers safety and security.
What is the context of Jeremiah 42:14?
The people desire to flee to Egypt where they believe safety awaits.