Old Testament

Jeremiah 40:11

The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English

At a Glance

This verse describes a significant moment after the Babylonian conquest of Judah.

Author
Jeremiah the prophet, with Baruch
Written
Around 600 BC
Genre
Prophecy
Original Audience
Judah before and during the Babylonian exile
CBTClear Bible Translation

In the same way, all the Jews who had fled to Moab, Ammon, Edom, and other surrounding countries heard that the king of Babylon had left a remnant in Judah and had appointed Gedaliah son of Ahikam, son of Shaphan, as their governor.

KJVKing James Version

Likewise when all the Jews that were in Moab, and among the Ammonites, and in Edom, and that were in all the countries, heard that the king of Babylon had left a remnant of Judah, and that he had set over them Gedaliah the son of Ahikam the son of Shaphan;

Verse Analysis

Plain-English insight for readers

This verse describes a significant moment after the Babylonian conquest of Judah. Many Jews who had fled to neighboring nations like Moab, Ammon, and Edom learned that the Babylonian king had left some people in Judah. Gedaliah, the son of Ahikam, was appointed as their governor. This indicates a shift in power dynamics, as the remnant of Judah was now under Babylonian oversight, but it also provided a chance for the exiled Jews to return and rebuild their lives. Gedaliah's leadership was crucial for the stability of the region and for the Jewish community that remained. His appointment signified a new beginning, as the Jews could now have a leader who understood their needs and could help them navigate the challenges of living under foreign rule. This moment highlights themes of hope, leadership, and the importance of community in times of uncertainty.

Key themes

Related topics

exile, leadership, community

How to apply Jeremiah 40:11 to your life

In times of uncertainty, we can find hope in new leadership and community support. Just as the Jews looked to Gedaliah for guidance, we should seek wise leaders and foster connections with others to navigate our challenges together. Trusting in God’s plan can lead to restoration.

Curated for this public verse page. Jeremiah Summary

Frequently Asked Questions

Quick, clear answers about this verse

What does Jeremiah 40:11 mean?

Jeremiah 40:11 indicates that after the Babylonian conquest, many Jews who had fled to neighboring nations learned that a remnant was left in Judah under the leadership of Gedaliah. This reflects a shift in power and offers hope for those exiled to return and rebuild their lives.

What is the significance of Gedaliah in Jeremiah 40:11?

Gedaliah, appointed as governor over the remnant in Judah, represents a new beginning for the Jewish community. His leadership was crucial for providing stability and guidance during a challenging time under foreign rule.

What does the term 'remnant' refer to in Jeremiah 40:11?

In Jeremiah 40:11, 'remnant' refers to the small group of Jews who remained in Judah after the Babylonian conquest. This remnant was significant as it held the potential for rebuilding the community and preserving their identity.

How does Jeremiah 40:11 relate to themes of hope and community?

Jeremiah 40:11 highlights themes of hope and community by showing that even in exile, the Jews had the opportunity to return and rebuild under Gedaliah's leadership. It emphasizes the importance of unity and support during uncertain times.

The Book of Jeremiah
Book Summary

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.

Premium

Unlock the full Jeremiah summary

Continue reading every chapter — themes, structure, and turning points.

The complete summary of Jeremiah — a chapter-by-chapter breakdown covering all 52 chapters.

What you get

Every chapter of Jeremiah summarized in clear, modern English

How each section connects — narrative flow, key themes, and turning points

Permanent access — read anytime, on any device

Best Value

Best value • Save over 90%

or

One-time purchase • Access anytime

ClearBible summaries are proprietary content and may not be copied, republished, or resold.

Checkout works as a guest. After payment, you create an account to claim your unlock.