Jeremiah 37:16

KJV

When Jeremiah was entered into the dungeon, and into the cabins, and Jeremiah had remained there many days;

KJV (with Strong's)

When Jeremiah {H3414} was entered {H935} into the dungeon {H1004}{H953}, and into the cabins {H2588}, and Jeremiah {H3414} had remained {H3427} there many {H7227} days {H3117};

Complete Jewish Bible

The cistern had been made into a dungeon, and Yirmeyahu was put in one of its cells; there he remained for a long time.

Berean Standard Bible

So Jeremiah went into a cell in the dungeon and remained there a long time.

American Standard Version

When Jeremiah was come into the dungeon-house, and into the cells, and Jeremiah had remained there many days;

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Jeremiah 37:16 marks a dire turning point in the prophet Jeremiah's life, chronicling his entry into a severe prison environment—specifically a dungeon and its associated cells—where he was held for an extended period. This verse powerfully illustrates the profound personal cost and intense persecution Jeremiah endured for his unwavering faithfulness in delivering God's unpopular message of impending judgment and the call to surrender to the Babylonians, underscoring the steadfast commitment demanded of a true prophet amidst profound adversity.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is situated within a critical and tumultuous phase of Judah's history, specifically during the final Babylonian siege of Jerusalem under King Nebuchadnezzar. Immediately preceding this event, the Chaldean army had temporarily withdrawn from Jerusalem due to the approach of an Egyptian relief force, as detailed in [Jeremiah 37:5](/jeremiah/37-5 "Jeremiah 37:5 - Chaldeans Withdraw from Jerusalem"). This brief respite led many within the besieged city to mistakenly believe the threat was over. Jeremiah, attempting to leave Jerusalem to go to his hometown of Anathoth, was apprehended at the Benjamin Gate by a captain named Irijah, who falsely accused him of deserting to the Chaldeans, an incident recounted in [Jeremiah 37:11-13](/jeremiah/37-11-13 "Jeremiah 37:11-13 - Jeremiah's Arrest and False Accusation"). Despite Jeremiah's vehement denial, he was beaten and imprisoned in the house of Jonathan the scribe, which had been converted into a makeshift prison, as described in [Jeremiah 37:14-15](/jeremiah/37-14-15 "Jeremiah 37:14-15 - Imprisonment in Jonathan's House"). Jeremiah 37:16 then describes his subsequent transfer into a more severe and long-term confinement within that improvised prison structure, highlighting a deepening of his suffering.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The period described is the final, agonizing twilight of the Kingdom of Judah, a time marked by profound political instability, widespread spiritual apostasy, and the overwhelming threat of Babylonian conquest. King Zedekiah, a weak and vacillating monarch installed by Babylon, found himself caught between the pro-Egyptian and pro-Babylonian factions within his own court. Jeremiah's prophetic message, consistently advocating for submission to Babylon as God's instrument of judgment, was universally deemed treasonous by the ruling elite, the false prophets, and the populace. Ancient Near Eastern prisons were not typically purpose-built structures as we understand them today but were often adapted from existing spaces, such as disused cisterns, underground chambers, or even sections of private homes. These "dungeons" were frequently dark, damp, unsanitary, and designed for severe, often torturous, confinement, making them places of extreme suffering, isolation, and despair. Jeremiah's experience vividly reflects the harsh realities and brutal conditions of imprisonment for political or religious dissent in this volatile era.
* **Key Themes:** Jeremiah 37:16 powerfully contributes to several overarching themes within the Book of Jeremiah and biblical prophecy as a whole. It vividly illustrates the theme of **prophetic suffering** that often accompanies the faithful proclamation of God's word, particularly when that word is unpopular or challenges the prevailing societal narrative. Jeremiah, frequently referred to as the "weeping prophet," embodies this theme, enduring not only physical hardship but also profound social ostracization and emotional anguish for his divine commission. The verse also highlights the theme of **persecution for truth**, demonstrating the intense opposition and hostility faced by those who deliver God's uncompromising message, especially when it confronts national pride, political expediency, or religious hypocrisy. Furthermore, Jeremiah's confinement underscores the theme of **divine sovereignty** at play; even in the deepest recesses of a prison, God's overarching plan for Judah's judgment and eventual restoration continues to unfold, and Jeremiah remains God's indispensable mouthpiece, even from within the "dungeon" (as seen in [Jeremiah 37:17-21](/jeremiah/37-17-21 "Jeremiah 37:17-21 - Zedekiah's Secret Interview with Jeremiah")). Finally, it exemplifies **faithfulness amidst adversity**, as Jeremiah's steadfastness in delivering God's word persists despite his dire and unjust circumstances, showcasing remarkable obedience and resilience in the face of profound personal cost.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **dungeon (Hebrew, _bayith'_):** H1004, derived from a root meaning "to build," typically refers to a "house" in its broadest sense, encompassing dwellings, households, or even temples. However, as the Strong's data indicates, it can also denote a "dungeon" or "prison." In this context, "dungeon" signifies a specific, severe type of confinement within the house of Jonathan, likely an underground cell or a particularly secure and harsh chamber, emphasizing the oppressive and dark nature of Jeremiah's incarceration. The use here highlights the versatility of the Hebrew term, adapting its meaning to the specific, grim function of the space.
* **cabins (Hebrew, _chânûwth'_):** H2588, from the root "to encamp," primarily means "a vault or cell (with an arch)." By implication, it refers to a "prison" or "cabin." This term suggests individual, perhaps arched or vaulted, cells or compartments within the larger prison complex. The use of the plural ("cabins") implies multiple such confined spaces, indicating a structured, albeit oppressive, detention facility rather than a single, undifferentiated pit. It underscores the deliberate and organized nature of Jeremiah's severe isolation.
* **remained (Hebrew, _yâshab'_):** H3427 is a primitive root meaning "to sit down," and by implication, "to dwell" or "to remain." It also carries causative meanings like "to settle" or "to marry." Here, its use emphasizes the duration and permanence of Jeremiah's stay. It was not a fleeting visit or a brief interrogation but a prolonged period of "dwelling" in this harsh environment, highlighting the severity and length of his confinement and the sustained nature of his suffering.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"When Jeremiah was entered into the dungeon,"**: This clause marks the initial and forceful act of Jeremiah's severe confinement. The verb "entered" (H935, _bôwʼ_) implies he was brought in or compelled to go, not that he willingly went. The "dungeon" (H1004, _bayith_, used in the sense of a prison, often associated with H953, _bôwr_ for a pit or cistern) points to a particularly grim, possibly underground or pit-like, section of the prison, signifying a profound loss of freedom and the immediate commencement of a period of intense suffering and isolation.
* **"and into the cabins,"**: This phrase clarifies and intensifies the nature of the prison environment. The "cabins" (H2588, _chânûwth_) suggest individual cells or vaulted chambers within the larger prison structure. This indicates a more organized, yet equally oppressive, form of detention, where Jeremiah might have been isolated in a specific, confined space, further emphasizing the harshness, desolation, and deliberate nature of his incarceration.
* **"and Jeremiah had remained there many days;"**: This final clause highlights the significant duration of his imprisonment. The verb "remained" (H3427, _yâshab_) signifies an extended stay, not a brief detention. Coupled with "many days" (H7227, _rab_ for "abundant" or "much" + H3117, _yôwm_ for "day" or "time"), it underscores the prolonged nature of his suffering and the relentless persecution he faced, emphasizing the physical, emotional, and psychological toll of his unwavering faithfulness.

#### Literary Devices
The verse effectively employs several literary devices to convey its stark and poignant message. **Symbolism** is prominent, with the "dungeon" and "cabins" serving as powerful symbols of the profound rejection, isolation, and suffering that often accompany prophetic obedience, particularly when God's message is unwelcome or challenges the prevailing societal narrative. These confined spaces represent not only physical imprisonment but also the spiritual and emotional isolation experienced by Jeremiah. There is also a strong element of **Pathos**, as the terse and factual description of Jeremiah's entry and prolonged stay in such a dreadful environment evokes deep sympathy and empathy for the prophet, highlighting the injustice and severe hardship he endures. Furthermore, the verse contributes to the overarching theme of **Foreshadowing** within the book of Jeremiah, as this imprisonment is not his last, and it prefigures even more severe trials and confinements (e.g., [Jeremiah 38:6](/jeremiah/38-6 "Jeremiah 38:6 - Jeremiah in the Cistern")). More broadly, Jeremiah's experience serves as a **Type** of the suffering of God's faithful servants throughout history, ultimately pointing to the ultimate suffering of Christ.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Jeremiah's unjust imprisonment in Jeremiah 37:16 is a profound theological statement on the nature of prophetic ministry and divine faithfulness in the face of human opposition. It underscores that obedience to God's call does not guarantee an easy path; rather, it often leads to rejection, suffering, and persecution, especially when the message challenges the status quo, national pride, or deeply entrenched human sin. Yet, even in such dire circumstances, God's presence and sovereign purpose remain. Jeremiah's confinement does not silence him but rather becomes another stage for God's word to be delivered, demonstrating God's ultimate sovereignty over human attempts to thwart His will. This episode powerfully illustrates the cost of discipleship and the unwavering commitment required to speak truth to power, reminding believers that true faithfulness may involve enduring hardship for the sake of the Gospel and God's kingdom.

* [Jeremiah 20:2](/jeremiah/20-2 "Jeremiah in the Stocks")
* [Jeremiah 38:6](/jeremiah/38-6 "Jeremiah in the Miry Cistern")
* [Acts 5:40-42](/acts/5-40-42 "Apostles Rejoice in Suffering")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Jeremiah's experience in the dungeon offers profound and enduring lessons for believers navigating a world often hostile to divine truth. His unwavering commitment, even when facing severe confinement, physical suffering, and false accusation, serves as a powerful testament to the call for perseverance in faith. We are reminded that faithfully proclaiming God's message, living out biblical values, or standing for righteousness may not always be met with approval or comfort but can lead to opposition, isolation, or even profound hardship. Yet, Jeremiah's story assures us that God's presence is not confined by prison walls; He is intimately with His servants even in the darkest "dungeons" of life, empowering them to endure and continuing to work through their circumstances for His greater purposes. This verse challenges us to examine our own willingness to embrace the cost of discipleship, to remain steadfast in our convictions, and to trust in God's sovereign plan even when our circumstances seem bleak, unjust, or beyond our control. It calls us to find spiritual freedom and purpose even in physical or emotional confinement, knowing that our ultimate hope and true liberation are found in God alone.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does Jeremiah's experience challenge my understanding of what it means to be faithful to God, especially when facing opposition or discomfort?**
* **In what "dungeons" or confined spaces (physical, emotional, spiritual) might God be calling me to remain faithful today, even when it is difficult?**
* **What personal costs am I willing to bear for the sake of speaking God's truth or living according to His righteous will in a world that often resists it?**
* **How can Jeremiah's perseverance inspire me to trust in God's unfailing presence and sovereign purpose, even when my circumstances seem bleak, unjust, or utterly without hope?**

### FAQ
**Why was Jeremiah imprisoned in the first place?**

Answer: Jeremiah was imprisoned primarily because he was falsely accused of deserting to the Babylonians (Chaldeans) while attempting to leave Jerusalem to go to his hometown of Anathoth, as detailed in [Jeremiah 37:11-13](/jeremiah/37-11-13 "Jeremiah 37:11-13 - Jeremiah's Arrest and False Accusation"). His consistent prophetic message that Jerusalem would inevitably fall to Babylon and his urging of surrender were seen as deeply treasonous by the officials and King Zedekiah, making him a convenient target for such a politically motivated accusation.

**What were "dungeons" and "cabins" like in ancient Israel?**

Answer: In ancient Israel, "dungeons" (Hebrew: _bor_ or _bayith_ in the sense of a prison) were often improvised from disused cisterns, pits, or underground chambers. These were typically dark, damp, unsanitary, and extremely harsh places of confinement, offering little to no comfort or light. "Cabins" (Hebrew: _chanuwth_) likely referred to individual vaulted cells or compartments within a larger improvised prison structure, such as a converted house like Jonathan the scribe's. These were not modern, purpose-built prisons but rather ad-hoc, severe places designed for isolation and prolonged detention, as implied by Jeremiah's "many days" of remaining there, highlighting the deliberate and cruel nature of his incarceration.

**Did Jeremiah's imprisonment stop his prophetic ministry?**

Answer: No, Jeremiah's imprisonment did not stop his prophetic ministry; rather, it became another context for its continuation. Even from the dungeon, King Zedekiah secretly sought Jeremiah's counsel and received divine messages from him, as recorded in [Jeremiah 37:17-21](/jeremiah/37-17-21 "Jeremiah 37:17-21 - Zedekiah's Secret Interview with Jeremiah"). Later, even after being thrown into a miry cistern, he was rescued and continued to prophesy (see [Jeremiah 38:6-13](/jeremiah/38-6-13 "Jeremiah 38:6-13 - Jeremiah Rescued from the Cistern")). His confinement ultimately demonstrated that divine truth cannot be fully contained or silenced by human opposition or physical barriers.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Jeremiah's unjust imprisonment in the dungeon serves as a poignant Old Testament prefigurement of the profound suffering, rejection, and ultimate triumph experienced by Jesus Christ, the quintessential Prophet and Son of God. Like Jeremiah, who faithfully delivered God's unpopular message of impending judgment and a call to surrender, Jesus came speaking the unvarnished truth of God's kingdom, a message that consistently challenged the religious and political authorities of His day, as He Himself declared, "I speak the truth" ([John 8:45](/john/8-45 "John 8:45 - Jesus Speaks Truth")). Jeremiah was falsely accused of treason and confined for a perceived threat to the state, mirroring how Jesus, though innocent of any wrongdoing, was maliciously accused, unjustly condemned, and ultimately executed as a supposed enemy of Rome and a blasphemer by the Jewish leadership, as recounted in [Matthew 26:59-66](/matthew/26-59-66 "Matthew 26:59-66 - Jesus Before the Sanhedrin")). The prophet's experience of being rejected by his own people and confined to a dark, oppressive space profoundly foreshadows Christ's profound rejection by "His own" ([John 1:11](/john/1-11 "John 1:11 - He Came to His Own")) and His ultimate descent into the "dungeon" of death—the tomb—only to emerge victoriously through His resurrection. Jeremiah's suffering for truth and his emergence from confinement find their perfect and glorious fulfillment in the Lamb of God, who endured the ultimate suffering and confinement of the grave, not for His own sin, but to take away the sin of the world ([John 1:29](/john/1-29 "John 1:29 - Jesus, the Lamb of God")), thereby securing true and eternal freedom for all who believe in Him.

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 38:6

Then took they Jeremiah, and cast him into the dungeon of Malchiah the son of Hammelech, that [was] in the court of the prison: and they let down Jeremiah with cords. And in the dungeon [there was] no water, but mire: so Jeremiah sunk in the mire.

Jeremiah 38:10

Then the king commanded Ebedmelech the Ethiopian, saying, Take from hence thirty men with thee, and take up Jeremiah the prophet out of the dungeon, before he die.

Jeremiah 38:13

So they drew up Jeremiah with cords, and took him up out of the dungeon: and Jeremiah remained in the court of the prison.

Lamentations 3:55

¶ I called upon thy name, O LORD, out of the low dungeon.

Genesis 40:15

For indeed I was stolen away out of the land of the Hebrews: and here also have I done nothing that they should put me into the dungeon.

Lamentations 3:53

They have cut off my life in the dungeon, and cast a stone upon me.