Old Testament

Jeremiah 40:6

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

ClearClear Bible Translation

So Jeremiah went to Gedaliah son of Ahikam at Mizpah and settled there among the people who remained in the land.

Compare translations
KJVKing James Version

Then went Jeremiah unto Gedaliah the son of Ahikam to Mizpah; and dwelt with him among the people that were left in the land.

What Jeremiah 40:6 means

Plain-English insight for readers

In this verse, Jeremiah, a prophet of God, goes to meet Gedaliah, who has been appointed as the governor of the people left in Judah after the Babylonian conquest. Gedaliah is the son of Ahikam, and he is in Mizpah, a city that serves as a center for the remaining people. Jeremiah's decision to settle among the people indicates his commitment to support and guide them during a difficult time. The context shows that many had been taken captive, and those who remained were vulnerable and in need of leadership. By living among them, Jeremiah not only provides spiritual guidance but also demonstrates solidarity with the people. This act of dwelling among the survivors highlights the importance of community and support in times of crisis, as well as the role of a leader in caring for those they serve. Jeremiah's presence reassures the people that they are not abandoned, and it emphasizes the hope for restoration and rebuilding in the aftermath of destruction.

How to apply Jeremiah 40:6 to your life

In times of uncertainty, it is vital to seek out community and support. Like Jeremiah, we can choose to be present with those who are struggling, offering guidance and encouragement. Building relationships can foster hope and resilience in challenging situations.

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 Lamech holding his newborn son Noah outside a tent, with a plow and tools lying on the ground nearby

Illustrated scene from Noah's story: Noah Is Born (Genesis 5:28–32)

Meet the people of the Bible

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

Noah

An old color photograph of Nablus in a green valley below Mount Gerizim, with people resting on rocks in front.

Photo: Photochrom print, Library of Congress Prints and Photographs Division (LCCN 2002725043). License: Public domain in the United States; Library of Congress states no known restrictions on publication. Source. Location: Nablus and Mount Gerizim, West Bank; print preserved by the Library of Congress. 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.

Shechem

Where God promised the land to Abram, and where Joshua led Israel to renew the covenant.

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 40:6

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 40:6

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

Who is Gedaliah in Jeremiah 40:6?

Gedaliah is the son of Ahikam and is appointed as the governor over the people who remain in Judah after the Babylonian conquest. He plays a crucial role in providing leadership and stability during a time of uncertainty for the survivors.

What does Jeremiah's decision to settle among the people signify?

Jeremiah's choice to dwell among the people highlights his commitment to support and guide them through their struggles. It signifies the importance of community and leadership, showing that he is there to offer spiritual guidance and reassurance during a difficult period.

What is the significance of Mizpah in this verse?

Mizpah serves as a central location for the remaining people of Judah after the Babylonian exile. It becomes a place of gathering and leadership under Gedaliah, symbolizing hope and the potential for rebuilding the community after destruction.

How can we apply the lessons from Jeremiah 40:6 in our lives?

We can learn the importance of being present for others during tough times, just as Jeremiah was for the people of Judah. By offering support, guidance, and fostering community, we can help those around us find hope and resilience in their struggles.

Daily Verse — straight to your inbox

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