Old Testament
Jeremiah 37:21
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So King Zedekiah gave orders to have Jeremiah transferred to the courtyard of the guard. He also commanded that Jeremiah be given a loaf of bread each day from the bakers' street, until all the bread in the city ran out. And so Jeremiah remained in the courtyard of the guard.
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Then Zedekiah the king commanded that they should commit Jeremiah into the court of the prison, and that they should give him daily a piece of bread out of the bakers’ street, until all the bread in the city were spent. Thus Jeremiah remained in the court of the prison.
What Jeremiah 37:21 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, King Zedekiah makes a decision regarding the prophet Jeremiah, who had been imprisoned. Instead of keeping him in a dark dungeon, Zedekiah orders that Jeremiah be moved to the courtyard of the guard, which is a slightly better situation. He also ensures that Jeremiah receives a daily supply of bread from the bakers' street, indicating that the king still cares for him despite the political tensions. This arrangement continues until the city faces a severe famine, leading to a shortage of food. Jeremiah's situation reflects the struggles of a prophet who speaks God's truth in a time of crisis, and it highlights the complexities of leadership and compassion in difficult circumstances. Zedekiah's actions show a mix of concern for Jeremiah's well-being and the reality of the dire situation in Jerusalem, where resources are dwindling. This verse illustrates the tension between authority and the prophetic voice, as well as the challenges faced by those who stand for truth in times of adversity.
How to apply Jeremiah 37:21 to your life
This verse encourages us to show compassion even in difficult situations. Like Zedekiah, we can find ways to support those who are struggling, even if we disagree with them. It reminds us that kindness can exist alongside tough decisions, and we should strive to help others whenever possible.
Curated for this public verse page. Jeremiah Summary
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Illustrated scene from Jeremiah's story: Arrested at the Gate (Jeremiah 37:11–21)
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Jeremiah
Photo: Photochrom print, Library of Congress Prints and Photographs Division (LCCN 2002724987). License: Public domain in the United States; Library of Congress states no known restrictions on publication. Source. Location: Hebron, West Bank; print preserved by the Library of Congress. Resized for the web.
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Where Abraham lived and buried Sarah, and where David was first made king.
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Keep studying Jeremiah 37:21
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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 37:21 mean?
Jeremiah 37:21 describes King Zedekiah's decision to move the prophet Jeremiah to a more humane setting within the courtyard of the guard and to provide him with daily bread. This reflects Zedekiah's concern for Jeremiah's well-being amidst the political turmoil and famine in Jerusalem.
What is the significance of the bread in Jeremiah 37:21?
The bread in Jeremiah 37:21 symbolizes the king's attempt to care for Jeremiah during a time of crisis. It highlights the limited resources available in the city as a famine looms, showing both compassion and the harsh realities of the situation.
What does the courtyard of the guard represent in this verse?
In Jeremiah 37:21, the courtyard of the guard represents a slightly better living condition for Jeremiah compared to a dark dungeon. It indicates a level of protection and respect for the prophet, even while he remains imprisoned.
How does Jeremiah 37:21 reflect on leadership?
Jeremiah 37:21 illustrates the complexities of leadership, as King Zedekiah balances his authority with compassion for Jeremiah. It shows that leaders can make difficult decisions while still caring for individuals affected by those decisions.
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