Old Testament
Jeremiah 39:2
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In the eleventh year of Zedekiah, on the ninth day of the fourth month, the city was breached.
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And in the eleventh year of Zedekiah, in the fourth month, the ninth day of the month, the city was broken up.
What Jeremiah 39:2 means
Plain-English insight for readers
This verse marks a significant moment in the history of Jerusalem, indicating the fall of the city during the reign of King Zedekiah. The eleventh year of Zedekiah's rule corresponds to a time of great turmoil and siege for Jerusalem. The specific mention of the ninth day of the fourth month highlights the exact timing of this event, which is crucial for understanding the historical context. The phrase 'the city was breached' signifies that the walls of Jerusalem were broken through, allowing the Babylonian forces to enter and conquer the city. This event fulfilled the prophecies of destruction that Jeremiah had warned about, illustrating the consequences of the people's disobedience to God. The fall of Jerusalem was not just a military defeat but also a spiritual and cultural catastrophe for the Israelites, leading to exile and loss of their homeland. This moment serves as a reminder of the importance of faithfulness to God and the dire consequences of turning away from His commands.
How to apply Jeremiah 39:2 to your life
This verse encourages us to reflect on the importance of obedience to God. Just as Jerusalem faced consequences for its disobedience, we too must consider how our actions align with our faith. Staying faithful can help us avoid spiritual pitfalls and maintain a strong relationship with God.
Curated for this public verse page. Jeremiah Summary
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Illustrated scene from Jeremiah's story: Jerusalem Falls (Jeremiah 39:1–14)
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Jeremiah
Photo: Zeev Stein / PikiWiki Israel, via Wikimedia Commons. License: CC BY 2.5. Source. Location: Tel Beer Sheva National Park, Israel. Resized for the web.
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Where Abraham and Isaac dug wells and worshiped the LORD, at the southern edge of the land.
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Keep studying Jeremiah 39:2
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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 39:2 mean?
Jeremiah 39:2 describes the fall of Jerusalem during King Zedekiah's reign, marking a pivotal moment when the city was breached by Babylonian forces. This event signifies the fulfillment of Jeremiah's prophecies regarding the consequences of the people's disobedience to God.
What is the significance of the ninth day of the fourth month in Jeremiah 39:2?
The ninth day of the fourth month is significant as it provides a specific date for the fall of Jerusalem, emphasizing the historical context of the siege and the urgency of the situation. This precise timing highlights the seriousness of the events unfolding and their prophetic implications.
What does 'the city was breached' mean in Jeremiah 39:2?
In Jeremiah 39:2, 'the city was breached' means that the walls of Jerusalem were broken through, allowing the Babylonian army to enter the city. This breach represents not only a military defeat but also the culmination of God's judgment on Jerusalem for its disobedience.
What historical event does Jeremiah 39:2 refer to?
Jeremiah 39:2 refers to the historical event of Jerusalem's fall to the Babylonian forces in 586 BC, marking the end of the city's resistance and the beginning of the Babylonian exile for the Israelites.
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