Old Testament

Jeremiah 42:14

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, the people are expressing their desire to flee to Egypt to escape the hardships they are facing in their own land.

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

saying, 'No — we're going to Egypt, where we won't see any war, won't hear any battle trumpets, and won't go hungry. That's where we'll settle' —

KJVKing James Version

Saying, No; but we will go into the land of Egypt, where we shall see no war, nor hear the sound of the trumpet, nor have hunger of bread; and there will we dwell:

Verse Analysis

Plain-English insight for readers

In this verse, the people are expressing their desire to flee to Egypt to escape the hardships they are facing in their own land. They believe that in Egypt, they will find safety from war, silence from the sounds of battle, and relief from hunger. This reflects a lack of faith in God's promises and a reliance on their own understanding of what will bring them peace and security. Their decision to go to Egypt symbolizes a rejection of God's guidance and a preference for worldly solutions to their problems. This choice ultimately leads them away from the path God intended for them, highlighting the dangers of seeking refuge in places or things that are not aligned with divine will. Explore related anxiety.

Related topics

anxiety, fear, stress

How to apply Jeremiah 42:14 to your life

This verse serves as a reminder to trust in God's plan, even in difficult times. Instead of seeking comfort in worldly solutions, we should turn to God for guidance and support. Our faith can help us navigate challenges without resorting to fear-driven decisions that lead us away from His will.

Curated for this public verse page. Jeremiah Summary

Frequently Asked Questions

Quick, clear answers about this verse

What does Jeremiah 42:14 mean?

Jeremiah 42:14 shows the people's desire to escape their troubles by fleeing to Egypt, believing they will find safety and relief from war and hunger. This reflects their lack of faith in God's promises and their choice to rely on worldly solutions instead.

What is the significance of Egypt in Jeremiah 42:14?

In Jeremiah 42:14, Egypt symbolizes a place of refuge that the people mistakenly believe will provide safety and security. Their choice to go there represents a rejection of God's guidance and a reliance on human understanding.

What does the phrase 'we shall see no war' mean in Jeremiah 42:14?

The phrase 'we shall see no war' in Jeremiah 42:14 expresses the people's hope to escape conflict and violence by moving to Egypt. It highlights their desire for peace and security in a time of turmoil.

How does Jeremiah 42:14 relate to faith?

Jeremiah 42:14 illustrates a lack of faith as the people choose to flee to Egypt for safety instead of trusting in God's plan. Their decision reflects a common struggle to rely on worldly solutions rather than divine guidance.

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.

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