Jeremiah 34:5

KJV

[But] thou shalt die in peace: and with the burnings of thy fathers, the former kings which were before thee, so shall they burn [odours] for thee; and they will lament thee, [saying], Ah lord! for I have pronounced the word, saith the LORD.

KJV (with Strong's)

But thou shalt die {H4191} in peace {H7965}: and with the burnings {H4955} of thy fathers {H1}, the former {H7223} kings {H4428} which were before {H6440} thee, so shall they burn {H8313} odours for thee; and they will lament {H5594} thee, saying, Ah {H1945} lord {H113}! for I have pronounced {H1696} the word {H1697}, saith {H5002} the LORD {H3068}.

Complete Jewish Bible

but will die peacefully; and just as they burned spices for your ancestors, the earlier kings who preceded you, so they will burn spices for you and mourn you, "Oh! Master!" For I have spoken the word,' says ADONAI."

Berean Standard Bible

you will die in peace. As spices were burned for your fathers, the former kings who preceded you, so people will burn spices for you and lament, ‘Alas, O master!’ For I Myself have spoken this word, declares the LORD.”

American Standard Version

thou shalt die in peace; and with the burnings of thy fathers, the former kings that were before thee, so shall they make a burning for thee; and they shall lament thee, saying, Ah Lord! for I have spoken the word, saith Jehovah.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Jeremiah 34:5 delivers a highly specific and nuanced prophecy to King Zedekiah amidst the Babylonian siege of Jerusalem, offering a measure of divine mercy within the pronouncements of judgment. Despite the impending fall of the city and Zedekiah's capture, the Lord declares that the king will die in peace, receive the traditional royal funeral rites of his predecessors, and be publicly mourned by his people. This unique promise highlights God's sovereign control over all human affairs, His capacity for grace even in the face of disobedience, and the absolute certainty of His prophetic word.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Jeremiah 34:5 is embedded within a series of prophecies delivered by Jeremiah directly to King Zedekiah concerning the fate of Jerusalem and Judah during the final stages of the Babylonian siege (Jeremiah 34:1-7). The immediate verses (Jeremiah 34:1-4) describe Nebuchadnezzar's advance and the inevitable capture of Jerusalem, along with Zedekiah's personal capture. This specific verse, however, stands out as a unique promise of a relatively dignified end for Zedekiah, contrasting sharply with the general destruction and exile prophesied for the nation. It also stands in stark contrast to the ignominious end predicted for Zedekiah's predecessor, King Jehoiakim, who was prophesied to receive "the burial of a donkey" ([Jeremiah 22:19](/jeremiah/22-19 "Jeremiah 22:19 - Jehoiakim's Dishonorable Burial")), emphasizing the Lord's distinct dealings with each king.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The prophecy in Jeremiah 34:5 is set against the backdrop of the final siege of Jerusalem by Nebuchadnezzar II of Babylon, which culminated in 586 BC. King Zedekiah, installed as a puppet king by Babylon, had rebelled, leading to this devastating siege. In ancient Near Eastern cultures, the manner of one's death and burial was profoundly significant. To die in battle, be left unburied, or suffer a dishonorable burial was considered a great curse and a sign of divine disfavor. Conversely, a peaceful death, a proper burial with traditional rites, and public lamentation were marks of honor and respect, particularly for royalty. The "burnings" mentioned refer not to cremation of the body, but to the burning of spices and aromatic wood in honor of the deceased king, a customary practice signifying reverence and mourning, as seen in other royal funerals (e.g., [2 Chronicles 16:14](/2_chronicles/16-14 "2 Chronicles 16:14 - Asa's Burial with Spices")).
* **Key Themes:** This verse powerfully underscores several key themes woven throughout the book of Jeremiah. Firstly, it highlights **Divine Sovereignty and Foreknowledge**, demonstrating God's absolute control over historical events and the precise details of human destiny, even that of a king. Secondly, it reveals **Mercy Amidst Judgment**, showcasing God's capacity to extend grace and a measure of dignity even to those who have largely disobeyed, contrasting Zedekiah's fate with the harsher judgments meted out to others or to the city itself. While Zedekiah would be captured, his eyes put out, and taken to Babylon ([Jeremiah 39:7](/jeremiah/39-7 "Jeremiah 39:7 - Zedekiah's Capture and Blinding")), the promise of a peaceful death and proper burial was a distinct act of mercy. Thirdly, the verse affirms **The Unfailing Authority of God's Word**. The concluding phrase, "for I have pronounced the word, saith the LORD," serves as an emphatic declaration that what God speaks will inevitably come to pass, regardless of human resistance or the apparent impossibility of the circumstances.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **die (Hebrew, _mûwth'_):** (H4191) This primitive root signifies "to die" literally or figuratively, or causatively, "to kill." In this context, it refers to the cessation of Zedekiah's life. The prophecy's significance lies not in the fact of death itself, which is universal, but in the *manner* of death—"in peace"—which is the core of the divine promise.
* **peace (Hebrew, _shâlôwm'_):** (H7965) Derived from a root meaning "to be complete" or "to be safe," _shalom_ encompasses far more than merely the absence of conflict. It denotes wholeness, well-being, prosperity, health, and completeness. Here, "die in peace" implies a death that is not violent, dishonorable, or premature due to warfare, but rather a death that occurs with a measure of tranquility and dignity, especially in contrast to the surrounding chaos and the common fate of those conquered in battle.
* **burnings (Hebrew, _misrâphâh'_):** (H4955) From the root "to burn," this noun refers to combustion or burning. In the context of royal funerals, it specifically denotes the burning of aromatic spices and perfumes, not the cremation of the body itself. This practice was a high honor, a final act of reverence and homage, ensuring the air was filled with pleasant scents during the mourning period, signifying the king's elevated status and the respect accorded to him even in death.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"But thou shalt die in peace:"** This opening clause delivers a surprising and merciful promise to Zedekiah. Despite the impending fall of Jerusalem and his capture, the king is assured that his death will not be violent or dishonorable, a stark contrast to the fate of many defeated monarchs and a significant act of divine grace amidst severe judgment.
* **"and with the burnings of thy fathers, the former kings which were before thee, so shall they burn [odours] for thee;"** This part of the prophecy details the specific royal honors Zedekiah would receive. It refers to the ancient Judean custom of burning aromatic spices and wood during the funeral rites of deceased kings, a sign of profound respect and mourning. The comparison to "thy fathers, the former kings" underscores that Zedekiah would receive the full, traditional honors due to a monarch, rather than a dishonorable or neglected burial.
* **"and they will lament thee, [saying], Ah lord!"** This clause further specifies the dignified mourning Zedekiah would receive. "Lament" (Hebrew: _çâphad_) implies a formal, public expression of grief, often involving wailing and mourning rituals. The cry "Ah lord!" (Hebrew: _hôwy ʼâdôwn!_) is a traditional lamentation for a deceased king or respected leader, signifying the people's recognition of his authority and their sorrow at his passing. This promise guaranteed Zedekiah would not be forgotten or scorned in death, but properly mourned.
* **"for I have pronounced the word, saith the LORD."** This concluding declaration serves as a powerful divine attestation to the absolute certainty and authority of the prophecy. It emphasizes that this promise is not a human speculation but a direct, unchangeable decree from Yahweh, the sovereign God of Israel. This phrase reinforces the theme of God's unfailing word and His ultimate control over all events.

#### Literary Devices
Jeremiah 34:5 employs several potent **literary devices**. The most prominent is **Prophecy**, as Jeremiah delivers a direct, divinely inspired foretelling of Zedekiah's future. There is a clear **Contrast** established, both implicitly and explicitly. Implicitly, Zedekiah's promised peaceful death and honorable burial stand in stark contrast to the general devastation and ignominious deaths that would befall many in Jerusalem during the siege. Explicitly, the prophecy contrasts with the fate of King Jehoiakim, who was denied a proper burial, highlighting God's nuanced judgment. **Symbolism** is evident in the "burnings of thy fathers" and the lamentation, which are not merely literal actions but symbolic representations of dignity, honor, and proper royal mourning. The phrase "Ah lord!" is an **Exclamation** of lament, a traditional expression of grief. Finally, the concluding "saith the LORD" functions as a **Divine Oracle Formula**, authenticating the message as directly from God and underscoring its absolute authority and certainty.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
This verse profoundly illustrates the intricate balance of God's justice and mercy, even in the context of severe judgment. While Zedekiah's disobedience led to the catastrophic fall of Jerusalem and his personal capture, God, in His sovereign prerogative, extended a unique and specific mercy regarding the king's death and burial. This demonstrates that divine judgment is not always absolute destruction but can be tempered with grace, reflecting God's complex character as both righteous judge and compassionate Father. It also reinforces the unwavering reliability of God's prophetic word; what He declares, He will bring to pass, regardless of human circumstances or expectations. This truth provides a foundation for trust in God's ultimate plan, even when His ways are mysterious or difficult to comprehend.

* [Jeremiah 22:19](/jeremiah/22-19 "Jeremiah 22:19 - Jehoiakim's Dishonorable Burial")
* [Jeremiah 39:7](/jeremiah/39-7 "Jeremiah 39:7 - Zedekiah's Capture and Blinding")
* [Isaiah 55:11](/isaiah/55-11 "Isaiah 55:11 - God's Word Accomplishes Its Purpose")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Jeremiah 34:5 offers profound insights for contemporary believers, reminding us that even in the midst of life's most challenging and chaotic seasons, God remains sovereign and His word stands true. We often face circumstances that seem overwhelming or unjust, much like Zedekiah faced the relentless Babylonian siege. This verse encourages us to trust in God's specific, often surprising, mercies that can be extended even when we are experiencing the consequences of our own choices or living in a fallen world. It challenges us to examine our own lives: are we heeding the warnings and wisdom God provides through His Word and His messengers, or are we, like Zedekiah in his broader context, resisting divine counsel to our own detriment? Ultimately, this passage calls us to a deeper faith in the God who is both just and merciful, whose promises are unfailing, and who can bring peace even in the shadow of death.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does God's promise of a "peaceful" death to Zedekiah, despite his ultimate capture and blinding, challenge your understanding of divine justice and mercy?**
* **In what areas of your life are you struggling to trust God's word, especially when circumstances seem to contradict His promises?**
* **What "burnings" or honors do you seek in life, and how does this verse reframe the importance of an honorable end versus a life lived in obedience?**
* **How can the certainty of God's "pronounced word" (Jeremiah 34:5) strengthen your resolve to obey Him, even when the path is difficult?**

### FAQ
**Did Zedekiah truly "die in peace" given his ultimate fate of capture, blinding, and exile?**

Answer: Yes, in the specific context and cultural understanding of the prophecy, Zedekiah did "die in peace." While his capture and blinding were horrific ([Jeremiah 39:7](/jeremiah/39-7 "Jeremiah 39:7 - Zedekiah's Capture and Blinding")), the prophecy in Jeremiah 34:5 did not promise he would avoid these consequences. Instead, "dying in peace" (Hebrew: _shalom_) meant he would not be killed violently in battle, left unburied, or suffer a dishonorable death. He would die a natural death (albeit in exile) and receive the traditional royal funeral rites, including the burning of spices and public lamentation, unlike other kings who faced ignominious ends (e.g., [Jeremiah 22:19](/jeremiah/22-19 "Jeremiah 22:19 - Jehoiakim's Dishonorable Burial")). This was a significant act of divine mercy, ensuring a measure of dignity in his death despite his overall disobedience.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Jeremiah 34:5, with its unique promise of a "peaceful" death and honorable burial for a disobedient king, finds its profound Christ-centered fulfillment in the person and work of Jesus. While Zedekiah received a measure of mercy amidst judgment, Jesus, the true King, willingly embraced the ultimate judgment on the cross, dying not in peace but in agonizing sacrifice for the sins of humanity ([Isaiah 53:5](/isaiah/53-5 "Isaiah 53:5 - Christ's Suffering for Our Sins")). Yet, paradoxically, His death brought the truest peace—peace with God for all who believe ([Romans 5:1](/romans/5-1 "Romans 5:1 - Justification by Faith")). Unlike Zedekiah, whose dignity was restored in death through human rites, Christ's death, though outwardly shameful, was an act of perfect obedience that secured His ultimate exaltation and true honor ([Philippians 2:8-9](/philippians/2-8 "Philippians 2:8-9 - Christ's Humiliation and Exaltation")). The "burnings" and lamentations for Zedekiah point to the human desire to honor a departed leader; in Christ, we see the ultimate "odour" of a pleasing sacrifice to God ([Ephesians 5:2](/ephesians/5-2 "Ephesians 5:2 - Christ's Sacrificial Love")), and His lamentation was not merely by His people, but by creation itself ([Matthew 27:45](/matthew/27-45 "Matthew 27:45 - Darkness at the Crucifixion")). Most significantly, the declaration "for I have pronounced the word, saith the LORD" in Jeremiah 34:5 foreshadows Jesus as the very Word of God made flesh ([John 1:1, 14](/john/1-1 "John 1:1,14 - The Word Became Flesh")), whose every pronouncement and act perfectly fulfills the divine will, culminating in His victory over death and the establishment of an eternal kingdom of peace.

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

2 Chronicles 16:14

And they buried him in his own sepulchres, which he had made for himself in the city of David, and laid him in the bed which was filled with sweet odours and divers kinds [of spices] prepared by the apothecaries' art: and they made a very great burning for him.

Jeremiah 22:18

Therefore thus saith the LORD concerning Jehoiakim the son of Josiah king of Judah; They shall not lament for him, [saying], Ah my brother! or, Ah sister! they shall not lament for him, [saying], Ah lord! or, Ah his glory!

2 Chronicles 21:19

And it came to pass, that in process of time, after the end of two years, his bowels fell out by reason of his sickness: so he died of sore diseases. And his people made no burning for him, like the burning of his fathers.

2 Chronicles 21:20

Thirty and two years old was he when he began to reign, and he reigned in Jerusalem eight years, and departed without being desired. Howbeit they buried him in the city of David, but not in the sepulchres of the kings.

Lamentations 4:20

The breath of our nostrils, the anointed of the LORD, was taken in their pits, of whom we said, Under his shadow we shall live among the heathen.

2 Kings 22:20

Behold therefore, I will gather thee unto thy fathers, and thou shalt be gathered into thy grave in peace; and thine eyes shall not see all the evil which I will bring upon this place. And they brought the king word again.

Ezekiel 17:16

[As] I live, saith the Lord GOD, surely in the place [where] the king [dwelleth] that made him king, whose oath he despised, and whose covenant he brake, [even] with him in the midst of Babylon he shall die.