Old Testament
Jeremiah 41:3
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
In this verse, we see a tragic event where Ishmael, a member of the royal family, commits a brutal act by killing all the Jews who were with Gedaliah at Mizpah.
- Author
- Jeremiah the prophet, with Baruch
- Written
- Around 600 BC
- Genre
- Prophecy
- Original Audience
- Judah before and during the Babylonian exile
Ishmael also killed all the Jews who were with Gedaliah at Mizpah, along with the Chaldeans found there, and the men of war.
Ishmael also slew all the Jews that were with him, even with Gedaliah, at Mizpah, and the Chaldeans that were found there, and the men of war.
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, we see a tragic event where Ishmael, a member of the royal family, commits a brutal act by killing all the Jews who were with Gedaliah at Mizpah. Gedaliah had been appointed governor by the Babylonians after the fall of Jerusalem, and his leadership was meant to provide stability. However, Ishmael's actions not only resulted in the death of Gedaliah but also the Chaldeans and soldiers present. This act of violence highlights the chaos and instability in the region following the Babylonian conquest. It reflects the deep divisions and conflicts among the people, as well as the consequences of betrayal and power struggles. The verse serves as a reminder of the fragility of peace and the devastating impact of violence on communities.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Jeremiah 41:3 to your life
This verse encourages us to reflect on the importance of unity and the dangers of division within our communities. It serves as a warning against betrayal and the destructive nature of violence. We should strive for peace and reconciliation in our relationships.
Curated for this public verse page. Jeremiah Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Jeremiah 41:3 mean?
Jeremiah 41:3 describes a violent act where Ishmael kills Gedaliah and those with him at Mizpah, highlighting the chaos and instability in Judah after the Babylonian conquest.
What is the significance of Gedaliah in Jeremiah 41:3?
Gedaliah was appointed governor by the Babylonians to maintain order after Jerusalem's fall, making his assassination by Ishmael a pivotal moment that deepens the turmoil in the region.
Who was Ishmael in Jeremiah 41:3?
Ishmael was a member of the royal family who committed the brutal act of killing Gedaliah and others, representing the internal conflicts and betrayals that plagued the Jewish people during this period.
What does this verse reveal about leadership?
Jeremiah 41:3 illustrates the vulnerability of leadership in times of crisis, as Gedaliah's assassination leads to further chaos and highlights the consequences of betrayal.

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.
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 • Save over 90%
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.