Old Testament
Jeremiah 32:1
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
The LORD spoke to Jeremiah during the 10th year of King Zedekiah of Judah's reign, which was the 18th year of Nebuchadrezzar.
Compare translations
The word that came to Jeremiah from the LORD in the tenth year of Zedekiah king of Judah, which was the eighteenth year of Nebuchadrezzar.
What Jeremiah 32:1 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, we learn that God communicated with Jeremiah during a specific historical moment: the tenth year of King Zedekiah's reign in Judah, which coincided with the eighteenth year of Nebuchadnezzar's rule over Babylon. This timing is significant because it highlights the political turmoil and impending doom facing Judah due to Babylon's threat. Jeremiah, as a prophet, is positioned to deliver God's messages during this critical period. The mention of both kings emphasizes the tension between Judah's fate and Babylon's dominance. This context sets the stage for the messages and actions that follow in Jeremiah's ministry, illustrating the challenges faced by the people of Judah and God's ongoing relationship with them, even in times of crisis.
How to apply Jeremiah 32:1 to your life
Understanding the historical context of God's messages can deepen our faith. Just as Jeremiah received guidance during a tumultuous time, we too can seek God's direction in our lives, trusting that He speaks to us even in challenging circumstances. Stay attentive to His word.
Curated for this public verse page. Jeremiah Summary
Learn the Bible through its people and places
Get to know the people in Scripture through illustrated stories, and explore the places where they lived and traveled.

Illustrated scene from Jeremiah's story: Jeremiah Buys a Field (Jeremiah 32:1–15)
Meet the people of the Bible
Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.
Jeremiah

Photo: Zeev Stein / PikiWiki Israel, via Wikimedia Commons. License: CC BY 2.5. Source. Location: Tel Beer Sheva National Park, Israel. Resized for the web.
Explore the places of the Bible
See where biblical events happened, why each place matters, and what archaeology helps us understand.
Beersheba
Where Abraham and Isaac dug wells and worshiped the LORD, at the southern edge of the land.
Get full access with one subscription
Explore the people and places of the Bible. Read summaries of every book, with images and clear explanations covering every chapter. Access all these features and our Bible study tools with one subscription.
See PlansAsk AI about Jeremiah 32:1
Ask a question about this verse and get a clear answer, with Bible references you can read for yourself.
Every Bible book, explained chapter by chapter
Explore summaries of every book of the Bible, with images and easy-to-understand explanations covering every chapter.
Keep studying Jeremiah 32:1
Related Bible verses
Key themes
Related topics
At a Glance — the Book of Jeremiah
- Author
- Jeremiah the prophet, with Baruch
- Written
- Around 600 BC
- Genre
- Prophecy
- Original Audience
- Judah before and during the Babylonian exile
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Jeremiah 32:1 mean?
Jeremiah 32:1 indicates that God spoke to the prophet Jeremiah during a specific time in history, the tenth year of King Zedekiah's reign, which was also the eighteenth year of Nebuchadnezzar's rule. This context highlights the political instability in Judah and sets the stage for the messages Jeremiah would deliver.
What is the significance of King Zedekiah in Jeremiah 32:1?
King Zedekiah is significant in Jeremiah 32:1 as he represents the last king of Judah before the Babylonian conquest. His reign marks a critical period of decline for Judah, emphasizing the urgency of God's messages through Jeremiah.
What does the mention of Nebuchadnezzar in Jeremiah 32:1 indicate?
The mention of Nebuchadnezzar in Jeremiah 32:1 indicates the power and influence of Babylon over Judah at that time. It underscores the threat Judah faced and the impending judgment that was to come as a result of their disobedience.
How does Jeremiah 32:1 relate to the themes of prophecy and judgment?
Jeremiah 32:1 relates to the themes of prophecy and judgment by showing that God communicated with Jeremiah during a time of crisis, preparing him to deliver warnings about the consequences of Judah's actions. This verse sets the tone for the prophetic messages that follow.
Daily Verse — straight to your inbox
A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.