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Jeremiah 36:12

Then he went down into the king's house, into the scribe's chamber: and, lo, all the princes sat there, even Elishama the scribe, and Delaiah the son of Shemaiah, and Elnathan the son of Achbor, and Gemariah the son of Shaphan, and Zedekiah the son of Hananiah, and all the princes.

Jeremiah 36:12 · King James Version

Meaning

When the verse describes someone going down into the king's house and entering the scribe's chamber, it is depicting a scene where important figures are gathered. The mention of princes sitting there like Elishama the scribe, Delaiah, Elnathan, Gemariah, and Zedekiah provides insight into the political and administrative structure of the time. These individuals were likely part of the royal court or council, playing significant roles in decision-making and governance. By naming each prince, the verse adds detail to the setting, giving readers a sense of the hierarchy and power dynamics within the king's house. This verse offers a glimpse into the inner workings of the royal court, showcasing the presence of key officials and advisers surrounding the king, highlighting the structure and organization of the kingdom.

Theological Overview

Interpreting the verse about King Zedekiah's visit to the scribe's chamber reveals an underlying theological theme of the importance of leadership and accountability. As King Zedekiah enters the king's house where the princes gather, it highlights the significance of leaders being present and engaged in matters of governance. The mention of specific princes like Elishama, Delaiah, Elnathan, Gemariah, and Zedekiah emphasizes the role of each individual in the functioning of the kingdom. Through word studies, we can also glean insights into the qualities attributed to these princes. For example, Elishama means "God hears," indicating a sense of divine guidance in his leadership. Delaiah can be translated as "the Lord has delivered," suggesting a trust in God's protection. By understanding the names and context of these princes, we can delve deeper into the spiritual lessons and principles set forth in this verse.

Jeremiah 36:12 in other translations

American Standard Version

he went down into the king's house, into the scribe's chamber: and, lo, all the princes were sitting there, [to wit], Elishama the scribe, and Delaiah the son of Shemaiah, and Elnathan the son of Achbor, and Gemariah the son of Shaphan, and Zedekiah the son of Hananiah, and all the princes.

World English Bible

he went down into the king’s house, into the scribe’s room: and behold, all the princes were sitting there, Elishama the scribe, and Delaiah the son of Shemaiah, and Elnathan the son of Achbor, and Gemariah the son of Shaphan, and Zedekiah the son of Hananiah, and all the princes.

Douay-Rheims

He went down into the king's house to the secretary's chamber: and behold all the princes sat there, Elisama the scribe, and Dalaias the son of Semeias, and Elnathan the son of Achobor, and Gamarias the son of Saphan, and Sedecias the son of Hananias, and all the princes.

Geneva Bible (1599)

Then hee went downe to the Kings house into the Chancellours chamber, and loe, all the princes sate there, euen Elishama the Chancellour, and Delaiah the sonne of Shemaiah, and Elnathan the sonne of Achbor, and Gemariah the sonne of Shaphan, and Zedekiah the sonne of Hananiah, and all the princes.