Jeremiah 34:1

KJV

¶ The word which came unto Jeremiah from the LORD, when Nebuchadnezzar king of Babylon, and all his army, and all the kingdoms of the earth of his dominion, and all the people, fought against Jerusalem, and against all the cities thereof, saying,

KJV (with Strong's)

The word {H1697} which came unto Jeremiah {H3414} from the LORD {H3068}, when Nebuchadnezzar {H5019} king {H4428} of Babylon {H894}, and all his army {H2428}, and all the kingdoms {H4467} of the earth {H776} of his dominion {H3027}{H4475}, and all the people {H5971}, fought {H3898} against Jerusalem {H3389}, and against all the cities {H5892} thereof, saying {H559},

Complete Jewish Bible

This word came to Yirmeyahu from ADONAI when N'vukhadretzar king of Bavel, his whole army, all his vassal kingdoms and all the peoples fought against Yerushalayim and all its cities:

Berean Standard Bible

This is the word that came to Jeremiah from the LORD when Nebuchadnezzar king of Babylon, all his army, all the earthly kingdoms under his control, and all the other nations were fighting against Jerusalem and all its surrounding cities.

American Standard Version

The word which came unto Jeremiah from Jehovah, when Nebuchadnezzar king of Babylon, and all his army, and all the kingdoms of the earth that were under his dominion, and all the peoples, were fighting against Jerusalem, and against all the cities thereof, saying:

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Jeremiah 34:1 serves as a crucial historical and theological introduction to a significant prophetic oracle from the LORD to Jeremiah. It precisely situates the divine message within the tumultuous period of Judah's final days, specifically during the overwhelming siege of Jerusalem and its surrounding cities by Nebuchadnezzar, king of Babylon, and his formidable coalition of forces. This verse not only establishes the immediate context for the subsequent prophecy but also underscores the dire national crisis facing Judah, framing the impending divine judgment as an unavoidable reality.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Jeremiah 34:1 marks a distinct shift or new section within the book of Jeremiah, introducing a specific prophecy concerning the fate of King Zedekiah and the city of Jerusalem during its final siege. It follows a series of prophecies primarily delivered during the reign of Jehoiakim and Zedekiah, often warning of the impending Babylonian invasion and exile. This verse acts as a precise chronological marker, grounding the subsequent divine word in a concrete historical moment. The oracle that follows (Jeremiah 34:2-7) directly addresses King Zedekiah regarding his capture and the fall of Jerusalem, while later in the chapter (Jeremiah 34:8-22), Jeremiah condemns the people for reneging on their covenant to free their Hebrew slaves, a breach of the Mosaic Law that further illustrates their spiritual decline and justifies the severity of God's judgment. The entire book of Jeremiah is a testament to God's persistent warnings and His ultimate justice against a rebellious people, with this chapter representing a critical juncture in the unfolding of those warnings into reality.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The setting of Jeremiah 34:1 is the final, devastating siege of Jerusalem by Nebuchadnezzar II of Babylon, which commenced around 588 BC and culminated in the city's destruction in 586 BC. Following the first two deportations of Judah's elite (in 605 BC and 597 BC, including King Jehoiachin and the prophet Ezekiel), King Zedekiah, installed as a Babylonian vassal, rebelled against Babylon. This rebellion provoked Nebuchadnezzar's decisive military response. The phrase "all his army, and all the kingdoms of the earth of his dominion, and all the people, fought against Jerusalem" vividly portrays the overwhelming military might of the Babylonian Empire, which had consolidated control over much of the Near East. This was not merely a local skirmish but a comprehensive assault by a global superpower of its time, reflecting the vast resources and widespread influence of Babylon. For Judah, Jerusalem was not just a capital but the spiritual heart, housing the Temple, the dwelling place of God. Its siege and impending fall represented the ultimate national catastrophe and the apparent failure of God's covenant promises from a human perspective, though from God's perspective, it was a just consequence of prolonged disobedience.
* **Key Themes:** This verse powerfully introduces several key themes prevalent throughout Jeremiah and the broader Old Testament. Firstly, it highlights **Divine Sovereignty and Judgment**, demonstrating that even pagan kings like Nebuchadnezzar are instruments in God's hands to execute His righteous judgment against His disobedient people, as seen in passages like [Isaiah 10:5-6](/isaiah/10-5 "Isaiah 10:5-6 - Assyria as God's Rod"). Secondly, it underscores the **Fulfillment of Prophecy**, as the siege and impending destruction of Jerusalem were direct consequences foretold by Jeremiah and earlier prophets for centuries of covenant unfaithfulness, echoing the warnings in [Deuteronomy 28:49-57](/deuteronomy/28-49 "Deuteronomy 28:49-57 - Curses of Invasion and Siege"). Thirdly, the verse emphasizes **The Prophet's Role Amidst Crisis**, portraying Jeremiah as God's faithful mouthpiece, delivering unpopular and dire messages of judgment even as the nation faced its ultimate demise. His consistent proclamation of "the word which came unto Jeremiah from the LORD" (as also seen in [Jeremiah 1:4](/jeremiah/1-4 "Jeremiah 1:4 - Jeremiah's Call")) validates the divine origin and authority of his pronouncements, contrasting sharply with the false prophets who offered optimistic but ultimately deceptive assurances of peace.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Word (Hebrew, _dâbâr'_):** (H1697) This foundational term signifies much more than mere utterance; it denotes a matter, affair, thing, or deed, often implying the active, powerful, and effective nature of God's communication. When "the word" comes from the LORD, it carries divine authority, purpose, and the inherent power to bring about what it declares. In this context, it is not just information but a decree that sets events in motion, confirming the divine origin and unstoppable nature of the subsequent prophecy.
* **Army (Hebrew, _chayil'_):** (H2428) This word conveys a sense of "force," "might," or "valor," encompassing both the military strength of men and the resources that enable such power. When applied to Nebuchadnezzar's forces, it emphasizes the overwhelming and formidable nature of the Babylonian military machine. It highlights the vast scale of the invading power, comprising not just soldiers but the entire logistical and strategic might of the empire, making the resistance of Judah seem utterly futile in human terms.
* **Dominion (Hebrew, _yâd'_):** (H3027) While _yâd_ primarily means "hand," it is used here figuratively to denote "power," "authority," or "dominion." The phrase "kingdoms of the earth of his dominion" signifies the vast extent of Nebuchadnezzar's control, implying that numerous conquered nations contributed their forces to his army. This usage underscores the comprehensive nature of Babylonian suzerainty and the absolute subjugation of these "kingdoms" under Nebuchadnezzar's "hand" or authority, further magnifying the perceived invincibility of the attacking force.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"The word which came unto Jeremiah from the LORD,"**: This opening clause establishes the divine origin and authority of the message that follows. It is not Jeremiah's own political analysis or personal opinion, but a direct, authoritative revelation from Yahweh (H3068, _Yᵉhôvâh_), the covenant God of Israel. This framing is typical of prophetic books, authenticating the prophet's message as God's own.
* **"when Nebuchadnezzar king of Babylon, and all his army, and all the kingdoms of the earth of his dominion, and all the people, fought against Jerusalem,"**: This detailed temporal and situational clause sets the precise historical stage. It identifies the primary antagonist, Nebuchadnezzar (H5019, _Nᵉbûwkadneʼtstsar_), king of Babylon (H894, _Bâbel_), and emphasizes the overwhelming scale of the attack. The inclusion of "all his army" (H2428, _chayil_) and "all the kingdoms of the earth of his dominion" (H4467, _mamlâkâh_ with H3027, _yâd_ and H4475, _memshâlâh_) highlights the vast, international coalition under Babylonian control, underscoring the hopelessness of Judah's military position. The target is explicitly named as Jerusalem (H3389, _Yᵉrûwshâlaim_), the capital and spiritual heart of Judah. The verb "fought" (H3898, _lâcham_) indicates active military engagement, a full-scale siege.
* **"and against all the cities thereof, saying,"**: This final segment clarifies the comprehensive nature of the Babylonian assault, extending beyond Jerusalem to "all the cities" (H5892, _ʻîyr_) of Judah. At this point, Jerusalem was virtually the last stronghold, with other fortified cities having already fallen or being under siege simultaneously. The concluding "saying" (H559, _ʼâmar_) transitions the reader from the historical setting to the divine message itself, indicating that the following verses will contain the specific content of the word that came to Jeremiah.

#### Literary Devices
Jeremiah 34:1 employs several significant literary devices. The most prominent is **Authorial Frame**, a common prophetic convention where the divine origin of the message is explicitly stated at the outset ("The word which came unto Jeremiah from the LORD"). This device immediately establishes the authority and truthfulness of the subsequent prophecy, distinguishing it from human speculation. There is also an element of **Foreshadowing**, as the description of the overwhelming siege directly anticipates the fall of Jerusalem and the fulfillment of God's judgment, setting a somber tone for the chapter. The phrase "all the kingdoms of the earth of his dominion" could be seen as **Hyperbole**, emphasizing the vast and seemingly insurmountable power of Nebuchadnezzar's empire, even if not every single kingdom on earth was literally present. This serves to amplify the sense of dread and the inevitability of Judah's defeat. Finally, the verse presents a stark **Contrast** between the immense, tangible power of a human empire and the invisible, yet ultimately supreme, authority of the "word which came unto Jeremiah from the LORD," subtly hinting at the divine sovereignty that orchestrates even the actions of earthly kings.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Jeremiah 34:1 profoundly illustrates the theological truth that God is sovereign over all nations and history, using even pagan empires as instruments of His divine will. The overwhelming force of Nebuchadnezzar's army, described as encompassing "all the kingdoms of the earth of his dominion," was not merely a geopolitical event but the culmination of God's long-standing warnings and judgments against Judah for its persistent idolatry and covenant unfaithfulness. This verse underscores the seriousness of God's covenant with Israel, demonstrating that blessings for obedience and curses for disobedience (as outlined in Deuteronomy) are not idle threats but divinely ordained realities. It highlights God's justice, even when it manifests through devastating national catastrophe, affirming that His word is always fulfilled, whether in promise or in judgment.

* [Deuteronomy 28:49-50](/deuteronomy/28-49 "Deuteronomy 28:49-50 - Prophecy of Foreign Invasion")
* [Isaiah 10:5-6](/isaiah/10-5 "Isaiah 10:5-6 - God's Use of Assyria as a Rod")
* [Habakkuk 1:5-6](/habakkuk/1-5 "Habakkuk 1:5-6 - God Raising Up the Babylonians")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Jeremiah 34:1 serves as a powerful reminder of the gravity of God's word and the inevitability of its fulfillment, whether in blessing or in judgment. For us today, it calls for a sober assessment of our own lives and societies in light of God's unchanging character and commands. Just as Judah faced the consequences of centuries of disobedience, we too must recognize that persistent rebellion against divine truth carries significant repercussions. This verse challenges us to consider whether we are truly listening to and obeying the "word which came unto... from the LORD" in our own contexts, or if we are dismissing His warnings in favor of fleeting comforts or deceptive assurances. It also provides comfort in its portrayal of divine sovereignty: even amidst overwhelming chaos and seemingly insurmountable human power, God remains firmly in control, working out His purposes. Our response should be one of humble submission, repentance where necessary, and unwavering trust in the God who governs all things for His ultimate glory and the good of His people.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what areas of my life or our society might we be ignoring God's warnings, similar to ancient Judah?**
* **How does the overwhelming power of Nebuchadnezzar's army in this verse speak to situations in my life where I feel overwhelmed or powerless?**
* **What does "the word which came unto Jeremiah from the LORD" teach me about the authority and reliability of God's Word in my own life today?**
* **How can I cultivate a greater sense of urgency and faithfulness in responding to God's revealed will?**

### FAQ
**What was the significance of Nebuchadnezzar's siege of Jerusalem?**

Answer: Nebuchadnezzar's siege of Jerusalem, described in [Jeremiah 34:1](/jeremiah/34-1 "Jeremiah 34:1 - The Siege of Jerusalem"), was the climactic event in the downfall of the Kingdom of Judah. It represented the fulfillment of centuries of prophetic warnings regarding God's judgment for Israel's persistent idolatry and unfaithfulness to His covenant. The siege, which began in 588 BC and culminated in the city's destruction and the burning of the Temple in 586 BC, led to the Babylonian Exile, a pivotal moment in Israelite history. It was a profound theological statement, demonstrating God's sovereignty over nations and His commitment to His justice, even when it meant using a pagan king as His instrument. This event is also detailed in [2 Kings 25](/2_kings/25 "2 Kings 25 - The Fall of Jerusalem").

**Why did God allow such a devastating event to happen to His chosen people?**

Answer: From a biblical perspective, God allowed the devastating siege and destruction of Jerusalem as a consequence of Judah's prolonged and unrepentant rebellion against Him. Despite repeated warnings through prophets like Jeremiah, the people and their leaders continued in idolatry, social injustice, and covenant breaking. This judgment was not arbitrary but a just response to their persistent sin, designed to purify a remnant and ultimately lead them back to Himself. It underscored the seriousness of God's covenant and His holiness. While painful, it was part of God's larger redemptive plan, ultimately leading to a renewed understanding of their identity and dependence on God during the exile, as seen in books like [Lamentations](/lamentations/1 "Lamentations 1 - Jerusalem's Desolation").

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Jeremiah 34:1, with its depiction of overwhelming judgment and the "word which came unto Jeremiah from the LORD," finds profound Christ-centered fulfillment in several ways. The ultimate "word" of God is not merely a spoken message but a person: [Jesus Christ, the Word made flesh](/john/1-14 "John 1:14 - The Word Became Flesh"). Just as Jeremiah delivered God's authoritative word concerning judgment, Jesus came to deliver the ultimate word of both judgment and salvation. The siege of Jerusalem by Nebuchadnezzar, orchestrated by divine sovereignty, foreshadows a greater spiritual siege: humanity's enslavement to sin and death. Christ, the true King, did not come with an earthly army to conquer nations, but He entered the ultimate spiritual battle, engaging the forces of darkness and sin. His crucifixion, though appearing as a defeat, was in reality the decisive victory over the "dominion" of sin and death, fulfilling the promise of a new covenant where God's law would be written on hearts, not just stone tablets ([Jeremiah 31:31-34](/jeremiah/31-31 "Jeremiah 31:31-34 - The New Covenant")). The judgment experienced by Judah points to the ultimate judgment that Christ bore on the cross for those who believe, allowing them to escape the just wrath of God. He is the one who truly takes away the sin of the world ([John 1:29](/john/1-29 "John 1:29 - Jesus, the Lamb of God")), offering a kingdom that will never be destroyed ([Daniel 2:44](/daniel/2-44 "Daniel 2:44 - God's Eternal Kingdom")), unlike the temporary kingdoms of this world, even that of Nebuchadnezzar.

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

Jeremiah 1:15

For, lo, I will call all the families of the kingdoms of the north, saith the LORD; and they shall come, and they shall set every one his throne at the entering of the gates of Jerusalem, and against all the walls thereof round about, and against all the cities of Judah.

2 Kings 25:1

¶ And it came to pass in the ninth year of his reign, in the tenth month, in the tenth [day] of the month, [that] Nebuchadnezzar king of Babylon came, he, and all his host, against Jerusalem, and pitched against it; and they built forts against it round about.

2 Kings 25:9

And he burnt the house of the LORD, and the king's house, and all the houses of Jerusalem, and every great [man's] house burnt he with fire.

Daniel 2:37

Thou, O king, [art] a king of kings: for the God of heaven hath given thee a kingdom, power, and strength, and glory.

Daniel 2:38

And wheresoever the children of men dwell, the beasts of the field and the fowls of the heaven hath he given into thine hand, and hath made thee ruler over them all. Thou [art] this head of gold.

Jeremiah 32:2

For then the king of Babylon's army besieged Jerusalem: and Jeremiah the prophet was shut up in the court of the prison, which [was] in the king of Judah's house.

2 Chronicles 36:12

And he did [that which was] evil in the sight of the LORD his God, [and] humbled not himself before Jeremiah the prophet [speaking] from the mouth of the LORD.