Old Testament

Jeremiah 38:26

Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.

ClearClear Bible Translation

then tell them, 'I was begging the king not to send me back to Jonathan's house, because I would die there.'"

Compare translations
KJVKing James Version

Then thou shalt say unto them, I presented my supplication before the king, that he would not cause me to return to Jonathan’s house, to die there.

What Jeremiah 38:26 means

Plain-English insight for readers

In this verse, the prophet Jeremiah is instructed to explain to his captors that he had pleaded with the king not to send him back to Jonathan's house. This house was a place of imprisonment for him, and he feared for his life there. Jeremiah's plea highlights his desperation and the dire circumstances he faced. He was concerned that returning to Jonathan's house would lead to his death, indicating the severity of his situation. This moment reflects the broader themes of suffering and the struggle for survival that permeate Jeremiah's life as a prophet. His honesty in expressing his fears shows his humanity and the real dangers he faced while delivering God's messages. This verse serves as a reminder of the challenges that come with standing firm in faith, especially in the face of persecution and danger.

How to apply Jeremiah 38:26 to your life

This verse encourages us to be honest about our fears and struggles, especially when facing difficult situations. Just as Jeremiah sought help and expressed his concerns, we too can reach out for support in our times of need. It reminds us that vulnerability is a part of the human experience and that seeking assistance is a strength, not a weakness.

Curated for this public verse page. Jeremiah Summary

Explore more of the Bible

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.

A painting of the king setting the royal crown on the head of Esther as she kneels before his throne, while the court looks on

Illustrated scene from Esther's story: Esther Becomes Queen (Esther 2:1–18)

Meet the people of the Bible

Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.

Esther

Rows of uncovered stone walls on the mound at Tel Shiloh, with no modern buildings in view.

Photo: Deror Avi, via Wikimedia Commons. License: CC BY-SA 4.0. Source. Location: Tel Shiloh archaeological site, West Bank. 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.

Shiloh

Where Israel set up the tabernacle, and where God called the boy Samuel.

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 Plans

Ask AI about Jeremiah 38:26

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 38:26

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 38:26 mean?

Jeremiah 38:26 means that the prophet Jeremiah was pleading with the king not to send him back to Jonathan's house, which he feared would lead to his death. This reflects his desperation and the dangerous situation he was in.

What is the significance of Jonathan's house in Jeremiah 38:26?

Jonathan's house in Jeremiah 38:26 represents a place of imprisonment for Jeremiah, where he felt his life was at risk. It highlights the perilous circumstances he faced as a prophet.

What does Jeremiah's plea reveal in Jeremiah 38:26?

Jeremiah's plea in Jeremiah 38:26 reveals his deep fear and vulnerability. It shows that even a prophet can experience desperation and the struggle for survival when facing persecution.

How does Jeremiah 38:26 relate to themes of faith?

Jeremiah 38:26 relates to themes of faith by illustrating the challenges and dangers that come with standing firm in one's beliefs. It emphasizes the importance of expressing fears and seeking help during difficult times.

Daily Verse — straight to your inbox

A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.