Jeremiah 35:11
But it came to pass, when Nebuchadrezzar king of Babylon came up into the land, that we said, Come, and let us go to Jerusalem for fear of the army of the Chaldeans, and for fear of the army of the Syrians: so we dwell at Jerusalem.
Jeremiah 35:11 · King James Version
Meaning
During this period in history, Nebuchadnezzar, the powerful king of Babylon, was a formidable force in the region. The people mentioned in this verse were feeling fearful of the impending invasion by the Babylonian and Syrian armies. As a result, they made the decision to flee to Jerusalem for safety. This verse highlights the anxiety and uncertainty that often accompany times of war and conflict. The people's response to the threat of invasion shows the instinctual drive towards seeking refuge and protection when faced with danger. Ultimately, their choice to dwell in Jerusalem serves as a testament to the instinct for survival and the desire for safety and security in the face of imminent peril. This verse serves as a poignant reminder of the human experience of fear and the lengths to which people will go in order to protect themselves and their loved ones.
Theological Overview
From a theological perspective, this verse from the book of Jeremiah highlights the theme of fear and the human instinct to seek refuge in times of danger. The mention of Nebuchadnezzar, the king of Babylon, signifies the impending threat and the need for the people to flee to Jerusalem for safety. It shows how fear of powerful enemies can drive people to make decisions based on survival rather than faith. The reference to the Chaldeans and Syrians further emphasizes the intensity of the danger faced by the inhabitants of the land. This verse reminds readers of the vulnerability of humanity and the importance of seeking refuge in God in times of distress.
Jeremiah 35:11 in other translations
American Standard Version
But it came to pass, when Nebuchadrezzar king of Babylon came up into the land, that we said, Come, and let us go to Jerusalem for fear of the army of the Chaldeans, and for fear of the army of the Syrians; so we dwell at Jerusalem.
World English Bible
But when Nebuchadnezzar king of Babylon came up into the land, we said, “Come, and let us go to Jerusalem for fear of the army of the Chaldeans, and for fear of the army of the Syrians; so we will dwell at Jerusalem.”
Douay-Rheims
But when Nabuchodonosor king of Babylon came up to our land, we said: Come, let us go into Jerusalem from the face of the army of the Chaldeans, and from the face of the army of Syria: and we have remained in Jerusalem.
Geneva Bible (1599)
But when Nebuchad-nezzar King of Babel came vp into the land, we said, Come, and let vs go to Ierusalem, from the hoste of the Caldeans, and from the host of Aram: so we dwel at Ierusalem.