Old Testament
Jeremiah 37:14
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, Jeremiah is falsely accused of trying to defect to the Chaldeans, who were enemies of Israel.
- Author
- Jeremiah the prophet, with Baruch
- Written
- Around 600 BC
- Genre
- Prophecy
- Original Audience
- Judah before and during the Babylonian exile
Jeremiah protested, "That's a lie! I'm not deserting to the Chaldeans!" But Irijah refused to listen. He arrested Jeremiah and brought him to the officials.
Then said Jeremiah, It is false; I fall not away to the Chaldeans. But he hearkened not to him: so Irijah took Jeremiah, and brought him to the princes.
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, Jeremiah is falsely accused of trying to defect to the Chaldeans, who were enemies of Israel. He vehemently denies the accusation, asserting that it is a lie. Despite his protest, Irijah, the officer who apprehends him, does not believe Jeremiah and takes him to the officials. This moment highlights the challenges Jeremiah faced as a prophet, including misunderstanding and persecution. It illustrates the difficulty of standing firm in truth when others are quick to judge or act on false information. Jeremiah's commitment to his message and his integrity are evident, even in the face of wrongful accusations. This situation serves as a reminder of the importance of truth and the potential consequences of being misunderstood or misrepresented. Jeremiah's experience reflects the broader theme of suffering for righteousness and the struggle to maintain one's integrity in a hostile environment.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Jeremiah 37:14 to your life
When faced with false accusations or misunderstandings, it is crucial to remain steadfast in the truth. Like Jeremiah, we should not be afraid to speak up for ourselves and clarify our intentions. Trusting in God during these trials can provide strength and guidance.
Curated for this public verse page. Jeremiah Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Jeremiah 37:14 mean?
Jeremiah 37:14 describes a moment where the prophet Jeremiah is falsely accused of trying to defect to the Chaldeans. He denies the accusation, but the officer Irijah does not believe him and takes him to the officials, highlighting the challenges Jeremiah faced as a prophet.
What is the significance of Irijah in Jeremiah 37:14?
Irijah is the officer who arrests Jeremiah in this verse. His refusal to listen to Jeremiah's protest underscores the theme of misunderstanding and the consequences of false accusations against those who stand for truth.
What themes are present in Jeremiah 37:14?
Jeremiah 37:14 touches on themes such as false accusation, integrity, persecution, and the struggle for truth. It illustrates the difficulties faced by prophets and the importance of standing firm in one's convictions despite opposition.
How does Jeremiah respond to the accusation in Jeremiah 37:14?
In Jeremiah 37:14, Jeremiah vehemently denies the accusation of deserting to the Chaldeans, stating, 'That's a lie!' His response reflects his commitment to the truth and his integrity as a prophet.

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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