Old Testament
Jeremiah 36:20
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They stored the scroll in the room of Elishama the scribe, then went to the king in the courtyard and reported everything to him.
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And they went in to the king into the court, but they laid up the roll in the chamber of Elishama the scribe, and told all the words in the ears of the king.
What Jeremiah 36:20 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, the messengers take the scroll containing God's message to the king. They first store it safely in the chamber of Elishama, who is a scribe, indicating the importance of preserving the written word. After securing the scroll, they approach the king in the courtyard to deliver the contents of the scroll. This act shows the seriousness of the message they are about to convey. The scroll likely contains warnings and instructions from God, and the act of reporting it to the king emphasizes the need for the king to hear and respond to God's word. The careful handling of the scroll and the formal approach to the king highlight the respect for divine communication and the authority of the king in receiving such messages. This moment is crucial as it sets the stage for the king's response to God's call and the potential consequences of that response.
How to apply Jeremiah 36:20 to your life
This verse reminds us of the importance of sharing God's messages with those in authority. It encourages us to respect and preserve the teachings of scripture while also being bold in communicating them to others. Leaders should be receptive to divine guidance.
Curated for this public verse page. Jeremiah Summary
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Illustrated scene from Jeremiah's story: The Burned Scroll (Jeremiah 36:1–32)
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Jeremiah
Photo: Diego Delso, via Wikimedia Commons. License: CC BY-SA 3.0. Source. Location: Tell es-Sultan, Jericho, West Bank. Resized for the web.
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The city of palm trees, whose walls fell in Joshua's day.
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Keep studying Jeremiah 36:20
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Key themes
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 36:20 mean?
Jeremiah 36:20 describes how messengers stored a scroll containing God's message in the chamber of Elishama the scribe before reporting its contents to the king. This highlights the importance of preserving God's word and the seriousness of delivering it to those in authority.
What is the significance of the scroll in Jeremiah 36:20?
The scroll in Jeremiah 36:20 represents God's message to the king, emphasizing the need for careful preservation and respectful delivery of divine communication. It underscores the responsibility of leaders to heed God's guidance.
Who is Elishama in Jeremiah 36:20?
Elishama is identified as a scribe in Jeremiah 36:20, indicating his role in preserving and recording important documents, including God's messages. His chamber serves as a safe place for the scroll before it is presented to the king.
What does this verse teach about authority?
Jeremiah 36:20 illustrates the importance of communicating God's messages to those in authority, showing that leaders have a responsibility to listen and respond to divine guidance. It emphasizes the connection between spiritual leadership and accountability.
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