Old Testament
Jeremiah 43:3
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, the speaker accuses Baruch, who is Jeremiah's scribe, of turning the people against them.
- Author
- Jeremiah the prophet, with Baruch
- Written
- Around 600 BC
- Genre
- Prophecy
- Original Audience
- Judah before and during the Babylonian exile
Baruch the son of Neriah has turned you against us to deliver us into the hands of the Chaldeans, so they can put us to death or carry us away as captives to Babylon.
But Baruch the son of Neriah setteth thee on against us, for to deliver us into the hand of the Chaldeans, that they might put us to death, and carry us away captives into Babylon.
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, the speaker accuses Baruch, who is Jeremiah's scribe, of turning the people against them. The implication is that Baruch is influencing them to distrust Jeremiah's messages from God. The fear expressed is that this betrayal will lead to their capture by the Chaldeans, who are the Babylonians, resulting in death or exile. This reflects the tension and conflict within the community, where fear and mistrust can lead to dire consequences. The mention of Baruch suggests that even those close to the prophet can be seen as threats when people are desperate and afraid. This highlights the struggle between faith in God's plan and the fear of human actions that seem to threaten their safety and future. The verse serves as a reminder of how easily people can be swayed by fear and misinformation, leading to division and despair.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Jeremiah 43:3 to your life
This verse teaches us to be cautious about whom we trust and listen to, especially in times of fear. It encourages us to seek truth and guidance from reliable sources, particularly in spiritual matters, rather than succumbing to panic or misinformation that can lead to harmful decisions.
Curated for this public verse page. Jeremiah Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Jeremiah 43:3 mean?
Jeremiah 43:3 expresses the accusation that Baruch, Jeremiah's scribe, is influencing the people to turn against Jeremiah. This fear stems from the belief that such betrayal could lead to their capture by the Chaldeans, resulting in death or exile.
What is the significance of Baruch in Jeremiah 43:3?
Baruch is significant in Jeremiah 43:3 as he is portrayed as a figure who turns the people against Jeremiah, highlighting the internal conflict and mistrust within the community. His role emphasizes how close associates can be perceived as threats during times of fear.
What themes are present in Jeremiah 43:3?
Jeremiah 43:3 includes themes of betrayal, fear, influence, and conflict. It illustrates how fear can lead to distrust among people and the potential consequences of such divisions.
What does the term 'Chaldeans' refer to in Jeremiah 43:3?
In Jeremiah 43:3, 'Chaldeans' refers to the Babylonians, who were a dominant power at the time. The verse warns of the threat they posed to the people, including death and captivity.

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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