Old Testament
Jeremiah 38:4
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So the officials went to the king and said, "This man must be put to death! His words are destroying the morale of the soldiers still defending this city, and of all the people too. He isn't looking out for the welfare of these people — he's trying to destroy them."
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Therefore the princes said unto the king, We beseech thee, let this man be put to death: for thus he weakeneth the hands of the men of war that remain in this city, and the hands of all the people, in speaking such words unto them: for this man seeketh not the welfare of this people, but the hurt.
What Jeremiah 38:4 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In Jeremiah 38:4, the officials approach the king with a serious accusation against the prophet Jeremiah. They argue that Jeremiah's messages of doom are demoralizing the soldiers and the people of Jerusalem, who are already in a desperate situation. They believe that his prophecies are not only discouraging the defenders but are also harmful to the morale of the entire city. The officials claim that Jeremiah is not acting in the best interest of the people; instead, they see him as a threat to their survival. This reflects a common theme in the Bible where true prophets often face opposition from those in power, especially when their messages challenge the status quo or bring uncomfortable truths. The officials' desire to silence Jeremiah highlights the tension between divine truth and human authority, as well as the fear that often accompanies prophetic messages that call for repentance or foretell judgment.
How to apply Jeremiah 38:4 to your life
This verse reminds us that speaking the truth can sometimes lead to conflict, especially when it challenges the comfort of those in power. We should be courageous in sharing difficult messages, while also being mindful of how they affect others' spirits and well-being.
Curated for this public verse page. Jeremiah Summary
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Illustrated scene from Jeremiah's story: In the Dungeon (Jeremiah 38:1–13)
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Jeremiah
Photo: Deror Avi, via Wikimedia Commons. License: CC BY-SA 4.0. Source. Location: Tel Shiloh archaeological site, West Bank. Resized for the web.
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Keep studying Jeremiah 38:4
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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 38:4 mean?
Jeremiah 38:4 describes how officials accuse the prophet Jeremiah of demoralizing the soldiers and people of Jerusalem with his messages of doom. They believe his words are harmful and not in the best interest of the city's survival.
What is the significance of the officials' accusation in Jeremiah 38:4?
The officials' accusation highlights the tension between prophetic truth and human authority. It shows how those in power may resist messages that challenge their position or threaten their comfort.
What does 'weakeneth the hands of the men of war' mean in Jeremiah 38:4?
The phrase 'weakeneth the hands of the men of war' means that Jeremiah's messages are discouraging the soldiers, making them feel hopeless and less willing to fight for the city.
Why do the officials want Jeremiah put to death in Jeremiah 38:4?
The officials want Jeremiah put to death because they believe his prophecies are damaging the morale of the people and soldiers, which they see as a threat to their survival during a time of crisis.
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