Old Testament
Jeremiah 36:9
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
In this verse, we learn about a significant event during the reign of King Jehoiakim of Judah.
- Author
- Jeremiah the prophet, with Baruch
- Written
- Around 600 BC
- Genre
- Prophecy
- Original Audience
- Judah before and during the Babylonian exile
In the 9th month of the 5th year of King Jehoiakim son of Josiah's reign over Judah, a fast was proclaimed before the LORD for all the people in Jerusalem and everyone who had come from the towns of Judah.
And it came to pass in the fifth year of Jehoiakim the son of Josiah king of Judah, in the ninth month, that they proclaimed a fast before the LORD to all the people in Jerusalem, and to all the people that came from the cities of Judah unto Jerusalem.
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, we learn about a significant event during the reign of King Jehoiakim of Judah. It was the fifth year of his rule, and in the ninth month, a fast was declared. This fast was a time for the people of Jerusalem and those who had traveled from surrounding towns to come together in humility and seek the Lord. Fasting in the biblical context often signifies repentance, mourning, or a plea for divine intervention. The act of proclaiming a fast indicates a collective recognition of the need for God's guidance and mercy. It reflects the people's desire to turn their hearts back to God amidst the challenges they faced. This moment serves as a reminder of the importance of communal worship and seeking God, especially in times of distress or uncertainty. It highlights the role of leadership in guiding the people spiritually and the significance of coming together as a community to seek God's favor and direction.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Jeremiah 36:9 to your life
In our lives, we can take time to fast and pray, seeking God's guidance in our personal and communal challenges. This practice can help us refocus our hearts on God, encouraging unity and spiritual growth within our communities. It reminds us to rely on God in difficult times.
Curated for this public verse page. Jeremiah Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Jeremiah 36:9 mean?
Jeremiah 36:9 describes a time during King Jehoiakim's reign when a fast was proclaimed for the people of Jerusalem and those from surrounding towns. This fast was a collective act of humility and a plea for God's guidance.
What is the significance of fasting in Jeremiah 36:9?
In Jeremiah 36:9, fasting signifies a communal recognition of the need for God's mercy and intervention. It reflects the people's desire to turn back to God during challenging times.
Why did they proclaim a fast in Jeremiah 36:9?
The fast was proclaimed to encourage the people to seek God's favor and guidance amid difficulties. It was a time for repentance and spiritual renewal.
Who was King Jehoiakim in Jeremiah 36:9?
King Jehoiakim, mentioned in Jeremiah 36:9, was the son of Josiah and ruled over Judah during a time of political and spiritual challenges, making the call for a fast particularly significant.

The Book of Jeremiah
Jeremiah 1: The Call of Jeremiah
The words of Jeremiah, son of Hilkiah, a priest from Anathoth in the land of Benjamin, are recorded. The word of the LORD comes to him in the thirteenth year of King Josiah's reign over Judah. It continues to come to him through the reign of King Jehoiakim and until the eleventh year of King Zedekiah, when Jerusalem is carried into captivity. The LORD states that before He formed Jeremiah in the womb, He knew him and ordained him as a prophet to the nations. Jeremiah responds that he cannot speak because he is a child. The LORD commands him not to say he is a child, for he will go where the LORD sends him and speak what the LORD commands.
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