Jeremiah 51:59 Meaning and Explanation
“The word which Jeremiah the prophet commanded Seraiah the son of Neriah, the son of Maaseiah, when he went with Zedekiah the king of Judah into Babylon in the fourth year of his reign. And this Seraiah was a quiet prince.”
King James Version (KJV)
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Read Full Chapter →Jeremiah gave a command to Seraiah when the king of Judah went into Babylon in the fourth year of the king's reign.
The Context of Jeremiah 51:59
Jeremiah commissions Seraiah to deliver a prophetic word about Babylon.
What Does Jeremiah 51:59 Mean?
The narrative shifts to a historical moment: Seraiah, a court official and brother of Baruch (Jeremiah's scribe), traveled with King Zedekiah to Babylon in the fourth year of the king's reign (around 594 BCE). Jeremiah entrusted Seraiah with a message to deliver regarding Babylon. 'A quiet prince' indicates Seraiah was a person of discretion and authority.
This verse begins a narrative conclusion to the prophecy, framing it as a specific historical commission. Jeremiah does not simply proclaim judgment but arranges for a dramatic enactment of the prophecy through Seraiah. The detail about the fourth year provides historical dating and credibility.
Frequently Asked Questions About Jeremiah 51:59
What does Jeremiah 51:59 mean?
Jeremiah gave a command to Seraiah when the king of Judah went into Babylon in the fourth year of the king's reign.
What is the context of Jeremiah 51:59?
Jeremiah commissions Seraiah to deliver a prophetic word about Babylon.