Jeremiah 22:11

KJV

For thus saith the LORD touching Shallum the son of Josiah king of Judah, which reigned instead of Josiah his father, which went forth out of this place; He shall not return thither any more:

KJV (with Strong's)

For thus saith {H559} the LORD {H3068} touching {H413} Shallum {H7967} the son {H1121} of Josiah {H2977} king {H4428} of Judah {H3063}, which reigned {H4427} instead of Josiah {H2977} his father {H1}, which went forth {H3318} out of this place {H4725}; He shall not return {H7725} thither any more:

Complete Jewish Bible

For this is what ADONAI says about Shalum the son of Yoshiyahu, king of Y'hudah, who succeeded Yoshiyahu his father as king: "He has left this place, never to return;

Berean Standard Bible

For this is what the LORD says concerning Shallum son of Josiah, king of Judah, who succeeded his father Josiah but has gone forth from this place: “He will never return,

American Standard Version

For thus saith Jehovah touching Shallum the son of Josiah, king of Judah, who reigned instead of Josiah his father, and who went forth out of this place: He shall not return thither any more;

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Jeremiah 22:11 delivers a solemn divine pronouncement concerning Shallum, also known as Jehoahaz, the son of King Josiah of Judah. This verse, part of a broader prophetic indictment against Judah's unrighteous kings, declares with absolute finality that Shallum, who briefly reigned after his father and was subsequently exiled by Pharaoh Necho II, would never return to his homeland. It underscores the certainty of God's judgment and the transient nature of earthly power when it stands in defiance of divine will and covenant faithfulness.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Jeremiah 22:11 is strategically placed within a series of prophetic oracles (Jeremiah 21-23) primarily directed against the corrupt and unfaithful kings of Judah. Following the condemnation of Zedekiah in chapter 21, chapter 22 shifts its focus, first addressing the "house of the king of Judah" generally (vv. 1-9), then specifically targeting Jehoiakim (vv. 13-19), and, in verses 10-12, Shallum (Jehoahaz). This section contrasts Shallum's tragic fate with the righteous reign and mournful death of his father, Josiah, highlighting the rapid moral and political decline of the Davidic monarchy. The pronouncements serve as a stark warning to the remaining kings and the people, emphasizing the severe consequences of covenant disobedience and the inevitability of divine judgment, which ultimately culminates in the promise of a future, righteous Davidic Branch in [Jeremiah 23:5-6](/jeremiah/23-5-6 "Jeremiah 23:5-6 - The Righteous Branch").
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The historical backdrop for Jeremiah 22:11 is the tumultuous late 7th century BCE, a period of severe geopolitical instability for Judah. Following the death of the reforming King Josiah at Megiddo in 609 BCE at the hands of Pharaoh Necho II, Judah's fragile independence was severely compromised. Josiah's son, Shallum (Jehoahaz), was anointed by the people, likely reflecting a desire for continuity with Josiah's policies, but he reigned for a mere three months. Pharaoh Necho II, now asserting Egyptian dominance, swiftly deposed Shallum and exiled him to Egypt, installing Shallum's elder brother, Eliakim (renamed Jehoiakim), as a puppet king. This event marked a significant shift in Judah's status, placing it firmly under Egyptian vassalage and demonstrating the diminished sovereignty of the Davidic throne, as well as the vulnerability of its leadership to external imperial forces.
* **Key Themes:** This verse powerfully contributes to several overarching themes prevalent in the book of Jeremiah and broader prophetic literature. It profoundly emphasizes **Divine Sovereignty and Judgment**, illustrating that God's ultimate control extends even over the destinies of kings and nations, and that His righteous judgment is certain and unalterable, echoing the covenant warnings found throughout [Deuteronomy 28](/deuteronomy/28 "Deuteronomy 28 - Blessings and Curses"). The **Transience of Earthly Power** is another prominent theme, as Shallum's exceedingly brief reign and permanent exile serve as a stark reminder that human authority, when not aligned with God's will, is fleeting and subject to divine intervention. Furthermore, the verse highlights the **Consequences of Disobedience**, not merely for individuals but for the entire nation. The unrighteousness and spiritual apostasy of Judah's kings directly contribute to the nation's impending exile and destruction, a concept woven throughout Jeremiah's prophecies, particularly concerning the covenant relationship between God and Israel, as seen in the warnings of [Jeremiah 7:1-15](/jeremiah/7-1-15 "Jeremiah 7:1-15 - The Temple Sermon") and the broader call to repentance.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **LORD (Hebrew, _Yᵉhôvâh'_):** This is the sacred covenant name of God, often transliterated as "Yahweh" or "Jehovah," signifying the self-existent, eternal, and sovereign God who is faithful to His promises and His covenant. Its use here, in the prophetic formula "thus saith the LORD," emphasizes that the pronouncement concerning Shallum is not a human prediction but a definitive, unalterable decree from the ultimate authority who controls history and destiny. The judgment is not arbitrary but flows from the righteous character of the God who remains faithful to His covenant, even in its punitive aspects.
* **Shallum (Hebrew, _Shallûwm'_):** This name, meaning "recompense," "retribution," or "peace" (derived from the root _shalom_), carries profound irony in this context. While his birth name was Jehoahaz, the prophet's use of "Shallum" might subtly convey that his fate was a divine "recompense" for the sins of his brief reign or a lack of true "peace" in his leadership. He was a king who pursued political peace through alliances rather than covenant faithfulness, and his ultimate end was far from peaceful, marked by exile and death in a foreign land.
* **return (Hebrew, _shûwb'_):** This primitive root means "to turn back," "to go back," "to restore," or "to repent." In this verse, its emphatic negative form ("He shall not return thither any more") signifies a permanent, irreversible exile. It underscores the finality of God's judgment and the complete severance of Shallum from his throne, his people, and his homeland. This is not a temporary setback or a period of repentance leading to restoration, but a definitive removal, highlighting the severity and unalterable nature of the consequences for unrighteous rule.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"For thus saith the LORD touching Shallum the son of Josiah king of Judah,"**: This opening clause unequivocally establishes the divine authority behind the prophecy. The phrase "thus saith the LORD" (כֹּה אָמַר יְהוָה, _koh amar YHWH_) is a classic prophetic formula, signaling that the following words are not human opinion or political speculation but a direct, authoritative revelation from God Himself. The specific identification of "Shallum the son of Josiah king of Judah" grounds the prophecy in a precise historical and genealogical context, ensuring its immediate relevance to the people of Judah who would have known Shallum's lineage and his brief, recent reign.
* **"which reigned instead of Josiah his father,"**: This clause provides crucial biographical detail, clarifying Shallum's identity as the successor to the beloved and righteous King Josiah. The phrase "reigned instead of" (_mâlak taḥat_) highlights the dynastic succession, but also implicitly contrasts Shallum's unrighteous and ill-fated rule with Josiah's godly and covenant-keeping reign. It brings into sharp focus the tragic and rapid decline of the Davidic line after Josiah's death, emphasizing the stark difference in character and outcome between father and son.
* **"which went forth out of this place;"**: This phrase refers to Shallum's forced removal from Jerusalem, the capital city and the sacred seat of the Davidic throne. "This place" (הַמָּקֹום הַזֶּה, _hammāqôm hazzeh_) specifically denotes Jerusalem and the land of Judah. His "going forth" (_yâtsâʼ_) was not voluntary but an act of deportation by Pharaoh Necho II, signifying the immediate and dramatic loss of his royal power, his personal freedom, and his sacred connection to the land promised by God to His people.
* **"He shall not return thither any more:"**: This is the core, definitive pronouncement of judgment. The emphatic negative "shall not return...any more" (לֹא יָשׁוּב שָׁם עוֹד, _lo’ yashuv sham ‘od_) seals Shallum's fate with absolute finality. It means his exile is permanent; he will never again set foot in Jerusalem or the land of Judah. This decree underscores the irreversible nature of God's judgment and serves as a stark, unyielding warning to other unfaithful leaders and to the entire nation about the severe and lasting consequences of straying from God's covenant and His righteous ways.

#### Literary Devices
Jeremiah 22:11 employs several powerful literary devices to convey its message with striking impact. The most prominent is **Divine Pronouncement**, signaled by the authoritative prophetic formula "thus saith the LORD," which immediately imbues the prophecy with absolute divine authority and certainty, elevating the message beyond human speculation to an unalterable decree. There is also a strong element of **Irony** in the use of "Shallum," a name associated with "peace" or "recompense." Shallum, who might have been expected to bring peace or a just reign, instead faces permanent exile and divine retribution, a direct "recompense" for his unrighteousness. This stark contrast between his name and his tragic fate powerfully highlights the consequences of his unrighteous rule. Furthermore, the verse demonstrates remarkable **Conciseness** in delivering a profound and irreversible judgment. Despite its brevity, it powerfully conveys the finality of Shallum's fate, making the impact all the more stark and memorable. The phrase "went forth out of this place" functions as a subtle **Euphemism** for his forced deportation and imprisonment, softening the bluntness of the act while still clearly conveying its meaning and the loss of his freedom and sovereignty.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Jeremiah 22:11 stands as a powerful testament to God's unwavering sovereignty over human affairs, particularly the rise and fall of kings and nations. It reinforces the biblical principle that all earthly power is ultimately subservient to divine will, and that persistent disobedience to God's covenant commands carries severe and often irreversible consequences. Shallum's permanent exile serves as a vivid illustration of the curses outlined in the covenant, where unfaithfulness leads to removal from the promised land. This judgment is not arbitrary but a righteous response to the moral decay and idolatry that characterized Judah's leadership and society, demonstrating that God holds leaders accountable for their stewardship of His people and His covenant. The verse also implicitly highlights the desperate need for a truly righteous king, one who would not be subject to such judgment, thereby subtly foreshadowing the future Davidic Messiah who would reign in justice and righteousness, unlike the failed kings of Jeremiah's tumultuous era.
* [Deuteronomy 28:36](/deuteronomy/28-36 "Exile as a Covenant Curse")
* [Daniel 2:21](/daniel/2-21 "God's Sovereignty Over Kingdoms")
* [Psalm 33:10-11](/psalms/33-10-11 "The Lord's Counsel Stands")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Jeremiah 22:11 offers profound and enduring lessons for believers today, emphasizing the gravity of leadership and the certainty of divine accountability. For those in positions of influence, whether in the church, family, workplace, or wider society, this verse serves as a powerful reminder that all authority is ultimately delegated by God, and our choices have far-reaching, even eternal, consequences. It compels us to lead with unwavering integrity, justice, and a deep reverence for God's commands, recognizing that true success is measured not by earthly power, longevity of reign, or popular acclaim, but by faithfulness to Him. For every believer, Shallum's tragic fate underscores the seriousness of disobedience and the unalterable nature of God's word. While God's mercy is boundless for the repentant, His justice is equally sure for those who persist in rebellion. This should inspire a deeper commitment to walking in obedience, trusting that God's sovereign hand guides all of history, even through periods of turmoil and judgment. In a world often characterized by political instability, moral compromise, and the fleeting nature of human power, Jeremiah 22:11 calls us to place our ultimate hope not in transient human leaders, but in the unchanging character and eternal reign of the Lord.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does Shallum's brief and tragic reign challenge modern notions of power, success, and leadership?**
* **In what ways might we, as individuals or communities, be tempted to choose or follow leaders based on worldly appeal, charisma, or political expediency rather than godly character and faithfulness?**
* **What specific actions can we take to ensure that our own leadership, in any sphere of influence, consistently reflects God's justice, righteousness, and covenant faithfulness?**
* **How does the finality of God's judgment on Shallum inform our understanding of the consequences of persistent disobedience and unrepentance in our own lives?**

### FAQ
**Who was Shallum, and why is his fate so significant in Jeremiah's prophecy?**

Answer: Shallum is another name for Jehoahaz, the son of King Josiah. He was anointed king by the people of Judah after his father's death but reigned for only three months before being deposed and exiled to Egypt by Pharaoh Necho II. His fate is profoundly significant because it represents a direct, irreversible divine judgment delivered through the prophet Jeremiah. The prophecy in [Jeremiah 22:11](/jeremiah/22-11 "Jeremiah 22:11 - Prophecy of Shallum's Exile") declares with absolute finality that he would never return to his homeland, symbolizing the end of his immediate claim to the throne and highlighting God's sovereign control over the destiny of kings and nations, even when foreign powers are the instruments of His will. His brief, unrighteous reign and permanent exile served as a stark warning to the remaining kings of Judah and the entire nation about the severe consequences of covenant unfaithfulness and rebellion against God.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Jeremiah 22:11, with its pronouncement of irreversible exile for an unrighteous king, powerfully foreshadows the ultimate need for a righteous and eternal King, Jesus Christ. Shallum, a failed Davidic monarch, represents the tragic trajectory of Judah's kings who consistently fell short of God's ideal, leading their nation further into sin and judgment. Unlike Shallum, who "went forth out of this place" (Jerusalem) into permanent, hopeless exile, Jesus, the true Son of David, "went forth" from heaven to earth, not into exile but into a redemptive mission. His journey culminated in His death and descent, a temporary "exile" from the presence of the Father on the cross, which He willingly undertook to secure our return to God. The definitive judgment pronounced on Shallum—"He shall not return thither any more"—stands in stark contrast to Christ's triumphant return. Jesus did not remain in the grave; He rose again, ascended to heaven, and will one day "return" in glory, establishing an eternal kingdom that will never be overthrown ([Revelation 11:15](/revelation/11-15 "Revelation 11:15 - The Kingdom of the World Has Become the Kingdom of Our Lord")). Shallum's name, meaning "peace" or "recompense," finds its true and perfect fulfillment in Christ, the "Prince of Peace" ([Isaiah 9:6](/isaiah/9-6 "Isaiah 9:6 - Prince of Peace")) who offers the ultimate recompense for sin through His atoning sacrifice, bringing true and lasting peace between God and humanity ([Colossians 1:19-20](/colossians/1-19-20 "Colossians 1:19-20 - Reconciliation Through Christ")). Thus, Shallum's tragic end underscores the desperate need for the perfect, eternal King whose reign brings not judgment and exile, but salvation, reconciliation, and everlasting life to all who trust in Him ([John 3:16](/john/3-16 "John 3:16 - God So Loved the World")).

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

1 Chronicles 3:15

And the sons of Josiah [were], the firstborn Johanan, the second Jehoiakim, the third Zedekiah, the fourth Shallum.

2 Kings 23:34

And Pharaohnechoh made Eliakim the son of Josiah king in the room of Josiah his father, and turned his name to Jehoiakim, and took Jehoahaz away: and he came to Egypt, and died there.

2 Chronicles 36:1

¶ Then the people of the land took Jehoahaz the son of Josiah, and made him king in his father's stead in Jerusalem.

2 Chronicles 36:4

And the king of Egypt made Eliakim his brother king over Judah and Jerusalem, and turned his name to Jehoiakim. And Necho took Jehoahaz his brother, and carried him to Egypt.

2 Kings 23:31

¶ Jehoahaz [was] twenty and three years old when he began to reign; and he reigned three months in Jerusalem. And his mother's name [was] Hamutal, the daughter of Jeremiah of Libnah.

2 Chronicles 34:22

And Hilkiah, and [they] that the king [had appointed], went to Huldah the prophetess, the wife of Shallum the son of Tikvath, the son of Hasrah, keeper of the wardrobe; (now she dwelt in Jerusalem in the college:) and they spake to her to that [effect].

2 Chronicles 28:12

Then certain of the heads of the children of Ephraim, Azariah the son of Johanan, Berechiah the son of Meshillemoth, and Jehizkiah the son of Shallum, and Amasa the son of Hadlai, stood up against them that came from the war,