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Jeremiah 38:18

But if thou wilt not go forth to the king of Babylon's princes, then shall this city be given into the hand of the Chaldeans, and they shall burn it with fire, and thou shalt not escape out of their hand.

Jeremiah 38:18 · King James Version

Meaning

The verse you mentioned comes from the book of Jeremiah in the Bible, specifically chapter 38, verse 18. In this passage, the prophet Jeremiah is speaking to King Zedekiah of Judah, advising him on the consequences of his actions. Essentially, Jeremiah is warning the king that if he refuses to go forth to the king of Babylon's princes, his city will be given into the hands of the Chaldeans, who will then proceed to burn it with fire. This ultimatum serves as a reminder to King Zedekiah that his defiance against the king of Babylon will have dire consequences for both himself and his people. The verse highlights the importance of obedience and the potential consequences of disobedience in the eyes of God.

Theological Overview

The verse you have just read from the book of Jeremiah contains a strong warning from God to the people of Jerusalem. The theological interpretation of this verse emphasizes the consequences of disobedience to God's commands. In this case, the people are warned that if they do not submit to the Babylonian rulers, their city will be destroyed by fire and they will not be able to escape the Chaldeans' grasp. This verse highlights the importance of obedience to God's will and the consequences that can result from disobedience.

A word study of this verse reveals the significance of phrases such as "go forth to the king of Babylon's princes" and "given into the hand of the Chaldeans." These phrases emphasize the idea of submission and the consequences of refusing to submit. The word "Chaldeans" refers to the Babylonian people, who were known for their military prowess and cruelty. The mention of burning the city with fire adds a sense of finality and destruction to the warning. The use of language in this verse serves to emphasize the severity of the situation and the urgency of the people's decision to either obey or face destruction.

Jeremiah 38:18 in other translations

American Standard Version

But if thou wilt not go forth to the king of Babylon's princes, then shall this city be given into the hand of the Chaldeans, and they shall burn it with fire, and thou shalt not escape out of their hand.

World English Bible

But if you will not go out to the king of Babylon’s princes, then shall this city be given into the hand of the Chaldeans, and they shall burn it with fire, and you shall not escape out of their hand.

Douay-Rheims

But if thou wilt not go out to the princes of the king of Babylon, this city shall be delivered into the hands of the Chaldeans, and they shall burn it with fire: and thou shalt not escape out of their hand.

Geneva Bible (1599)

But if thou wilt not go forth to the King of Babels princes, then shall this citie be giuen into the hand of ye Caldeans, and they shall burne it with fire, and thou shalt not escape out of their hands.