Jeremiah 39:3

KJV

And all the princes of the king of Babylon came in, and sat in the middle gate, [even] Nergalsharezer, Samgarnebo, Sarsechim, Rabsaris, Nergalsharezer, Rabmag, with all the residue of the princes of the king of Babylon.

KJV (with Strong's)

And all the princes {H8269} of the king {H4428} of Babylon {H894} came in {H935}, and sat {H3427} in the middle {H8432} gate {H8179}, even Nergalsharezer {H5371}, Samgarnebo {H5562}, Sarsechim {H8310}, Rabsaris {H7249}, Nergalsharezer {H5371}, Rabmag {H7248}, with all the residue {H7611} of the princes {H8269} of the king {H4428} of Babylon {H894}.

Complete Jewish Bible

All the officers of the king of Bavel entered and sat at the Middle Gate - Nergal-Sar'etzer, Samgar-N'vo, Sars'khim the Rav-Saris, Nergal-Sar'etzer the Rav-Mag and all the other officers of the king of Bavel.

Berean Standard Bible

Then all the officials of the king of Babylon entered and sat in the Middle Gate: Nergal-sharezer of Samgar, Nebo-sarsekim the Rabsaris, Nergal-sharezer the Rabmag, and all the rest of the officials of the king of Babylon.

American Standard Version

that all the princes of the king of Babylon came in, and sat in the middle gate, to wit, Nergal-sharezer, Samgar-nebo, Sarsechim, Rab-saris, Nergal-sharezer, Rab-mag, with all the rest of the princes of the king of Babylon.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Jeremiah 39:3 records the definitive moment of Jerusalem's conquest by Babylon, detailing the arrival and strategic occupation of the city's "middle gate" by high-ranking Babylonian officials, including specific individuals and those holding significant administrative and military titles. This verse serves as a stark historical marker, confirming the complete subjugation of Judah and the fulfillment of God's long-prophesied judgment against Jerusalem due to its persistent idolatry and disobedience.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is situated at the climax of the book of Jeremiah's prophetic warnings concerning Jerusalem's fall. Chapters 37-38 detail the final stages of the siege and King Zedekiah's desperate attempts to resist Babylon while simultaneously consulting Jeremiah. Immediately preceding this verse, [Jeremiah 39:1-2](/jeremiah/39-1 "Jeremiah 39:1-2 - The Fall of Jerusalem") describes the breaching of Jerusalem's walls and the entry of the Babylonian forces. Following Jeremiah 39:3, the narrative continues with King Zedekiah's flight, capture, and the severe judgment he faces ([Jeremiah 39:4-7](/jeremiah/39-4 "Jeremiah 39:4-7 - Zedekiah's Capture and Punishment")), culminating in the systematic destruction of the city and the deportation of its inhabitants ([Jeremiah 39:8-10](/jeremiah/39-8 "Jeremiah 39:8-10 - Destruction and Deportation")). Thus, Jeremiah 39:3 acts as a pivotal moment, marking the transition from siege to complete occupation and the irreversible end of Judah's independent monarchy.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The events of Jeremiah 39:3 unfold in 586 BC, after an eighteen-month siege of Jerusalem by Nebuchadnezzar II's Neo-Babylonian army. The "middle gate" (or "Middle Gate") was a crucial strategic point within Jerusalem's fortifications, likely located between the outer and inner walls, or perhaps a significant internal gate that controlled access to the city's administrative or religious centers. Its occupation by these high-ranking officials—princes and those holding specific titles like Rab-Saris (chief eunuch), Sarsechim (chief official), and Rab-Mag (chief of the magicians/priests)—symbolized not merely military victory but the complete administrative and political takeover of the city. The presence of such officials, rather than just soldiers, underscored Babylon's intent to establish full control and integrate the conquered territory into its vast empire, reflecting typical ancient Near Eastern practices of imperial conquest and governance.

* **Key Themes:** Jeremiah 39:3 powerfully illustrates several key themes prevalent throughout the book of Jeremiah and the broader prophetic literature. Foremost is the **fulfillment of divine judgment**, as God's warnings against Judah's persistent idolatry and covenant unfaithfulness, delivered through Jeremiah for decades, finally come to pass. This event underscores God's **sovereignty over nations**, demonstrating His use of foreign powers, even pagan ones like Babylon, as instruments of His righteous purposes, a theme also seen in [Isaiah 10:5-6](/isaiah/10-5 "Isaiah 10:5-6 - Assyria as God's Instrument") and [Habakkuk 1:5-6](/habakkuk/1-5 "Habakkuk 1:5-6 - God Raising Up the Chaldeans"). The presence of these officials at a strategic gate also symbolizes the **irreversible conquest** and the **end of an era** for Judah, marking the transition from independent kingdom to exiled people, a profound consequence of their disobedience to the covenant stipulations found in [Deuteronomy 28](/deuteronomy/28 "Deuteronomy 28 - Blessings and Curses").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **princes (Hebrew, _sar'_):** From the root שָׂרַר (sarar), meaning to rule or be a chief. This term denotes a head person of any rank or class, encompassing captains, chiefs, generals, governors, lords, masters, and rulers. In this context, it emphasizes the high authority and leadership of the Babylonian officials who entered Jerusalem, signifying the complete transfer of power.
* **sat (Hebrew, _yâshab'_):** A primitive root meaning to sit down, often with implications of settling, dwelling, or remaining. When used in the context of officials or judges, it can signify establishing authority, taking possession, or deliberating. Their "sitting" in the middle gate is not casual but a deliberate act of establishing administrative and judicial control over the conquered city, symbolizing their permanent presence and dominion.
* **gate (Hebrew, _shaʻar'_):** From an unused root meaning to sever or open. It refers to an opening, specifically a door or gate, often associated with a city. In ancient Near Eastern cities, gates were not merely points of entry but vital centers for commerce, justice, public assembly, and defense. The occupation of the "middle gate" by Babylonian officials signifies the complete breach of Jerusalem's defenses and the seizure of its vital administrative and strategic heart.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And all the princes of the king of Babylon came in":** This clause immediately establishes the identity of the conquerors—the high-ranking officials of the Babylonian king, Nebuchadnezzar. Their "coming in" signifies the successful breach of Jerusalem's formidable defenses, marking the end of the siege and the beginning of the occupation. It underscores the overwhelming power and authority of the invading force.
* **"and sat in the middle gate":** This action is highly symbolic. The "middle gate" was a critical strategic and possibly administrative point within Jerusalem. Their act of "sitting" there is not one of rest but of establishing authority, taking possession, and asserting control. It implies a formal and deliberate act of occupation, signaling the complete subjugation of the city and the establishment of a new administrative order.
* **"even Nergalsharezer, Samgarnebo, Sarsechim, Rabsaris, Nergalsharezer, Rabmag":** This specific enumeration of names and titles provides historical verisimilitude and highlights the importance of these individuals. Nergalsharezer appears twice, indicating either two distinct individuals of that name or perhaps a personal name followed by a title (Rab-Mag). Samgar-Nebo, Sarsechim, and Rab-Saris are identified as powerful Babylonian court and military officials, underscoring the comprehensive nature of the Babylonian takeover, involving not just military might but also administrative and religious authority.
* **"with all the residue of the princes of the king of Babylon":** This final phrase emphasizes that the named officials were not isolated figures but part of a larger, organized delegation representing the full might and authority of the Babylonian empire. "Residue" here implies the remaining or accompanying body of high-ranking officials, reinforcing the completeness of the conquest and the overwhelming presence of Babylonian power within Jerusalem.

#### Literary Devices
Jeremiah 39:3 employs several literary devices to convey its profound message. The most prominent is **Enumeration** or **Listing**, as the verse meticulously names specific Babylonian officials and titles. This detailed listing serves to lend historical credibility and authenticity to the biblical account, demonstrating the meticulous record-keeping or eyewitness nature of the narrative. The repetition of "Nergalsharezer" and "princes of the king of Babylon" also functions as **Repetition**, emphasizing the overwhelming presence and unified authority of the Babylonian conquerors. Furthermore, the act of "sitting in the middle gate" is rich in **Symbolism**. The "gate" itself symbolizes the city's strength, its judicial and commercial hub, and its point of vulnerability. The Babylonians "sitting" there symbolizes their complete conquest, the establishment of their dominion, and the irreversible transfer of power from Judah to Babylon. This scene also serves as a powerful **Fulfillment** of Jeremiah's long-standing prophecies of judgment against Jerusalem, visually depicting the consequences of Judah's unfaithfulness.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Jeremiah 39:3 stands as a stark testament to the fulfillment of God's righteous judgment against His covenant people, Judah, for their persistent rebellion and idolatry. It underscores the theological principle that God is sovereign over all nations, using even pagan empires as instruments of His divine will to bring about His purposes, whether in judgment or restoration. The fall of Jerusalem and the occupation by Babylonian officials were not random historical events but the culmination of centuries of prophetic warnings, demonstrating that God's word, whether of blessing or curse, will ultimately be fulfilled. This event served as a severe, yet ultimately redemptive, discipline, intended to purify a remnant and lead them back to faithful worship and obedience. It highlights the serious consequences of covenant unfaithfulness and the unwavering nature of God's justice.

* [Deuteronomy 28:49-52](/deuteronomy/28-49 "Deuteronomy 28:49-52 - Prophecy of Foreign Invasion")
* [Isaiah 10:5-6](/isaiah/10-5 "Isaiah 10:5-6 - Assyria as God's Rod")
* [Habakkuk 1:5-6](/habakkuk/1-5 "Habakkuk 1:5-6 - God Raises Up the Chaldeans")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
The scene depicted in Jeremiah 39:3, though set in a distant historical context of conquest and judgment, carries profound and enduring lessons for believers today. It serves as a powerful reminder that God is utterly faithful to His word, whether in blessing or in warning. Just as Judah faced the consequences of its persistent disobedience, so too are there spiritual consequences for neglecting God's commands and pursuing self-serving paths. This verse challenges us to examine our own lives and communities for areas of spiritual compromise or rebellion, urging us towards genuine repentance and sincere obedience. Moreover, it highlights God's absolute sovereignty, demonstrating that even in the midst of chaos, destruction, and the rise of seemingly unstoppable human powers, God remains firmly in control, orchestrating events to fulfill His ultimate purposes. This should instill in us a deep trust in His providence, even when circumstances seem bleak or incomprehensible, reminding us that His plans are always perfect, even when they involve painful discipline.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does the fulfillment of prophecy in Jeremiah 39:3 strengthen your faith in the reliability of God's Word today?**
* **In what areas of your life might you be resisting God's will, similar to ancient Judah, and what steps can you take toward greater obedience?**
* **How does understanding God's sovereignty, even in moments of judgment and conquest, impact your perspective on current global or personal challenges?**

### FAQ
**Why are so many specific names and titles listed in this verse?**

Answer: The detailed listing of names like Nergalsharezer, Samgarnebo, and titles such as Sarsechim, Rabsaris, and Rabmag serves several crucial purposes. First, it lends strong historical credibility to the biblical account, aligning with known Neo-Babylonian administrative and military structures of the period. These were not generic invaders but specific, high-ranking officials of King Nebuchadnezzar's court and military. Second, it emphasizes the comprehensive nature of the Babylonian takeover; it was not just a military victory but a full administrative and political occupation. The presence of these officials at a strategic point like the "middle gate" underscored the complete and irreversible subjugation of Jerusalem and Judah, signifying that Babylon had firmly established its authority.

**What was the significance of the "middle gate" where the Babylonian princes sat?**

Answer: In ancient cities, gates were far more than mere entrances; they were vital centers of civic life, commerce, justice, and defense. The "middle gate" likely refers to a significant internal gate within Jerusalem's complex defensive system, possibly separating an outer and inner city, or controlling access to the royal or temple precincts. The act of the Babylonian princes "sitting" there was a deliberate and symbolic gesture. It was not a casual rest but a formal act of establishing their authority and dominion over the conquered city. It visually represented the complete breach of Jerusalem's defenses and the total transfer of power and control from the Judean monarchy to the Babylonian empire, signifying the end of Judah's independence. This act of taking the gate was a powerful declaration of their victory and ownership, similar to how a conquering army might occupy a capital's parliament or palace today.

**Why is "Nergalsharezer" mentioned twice in the list of officials?**

Answer: The repetition of "Nergalsharezer" in Jeremiah 39:3 has led to various scholarly interpretations. One common explanation is that it refers to two distinct individuals who shared the same name, both holding significant positions among the Babylonian officials. Another strong possibility, supported by ancient Near Eastern inscriptions, is that the first "Nergalsharezer" is a personal name, while the second "Nergalsharezer, Rabmag" identifies the same individual by his personal name and then by his prominent title, "Rabmag" (chief of the magicians or chief official). Historically, a Neriglissar (the Akkadian form of Nergalsharezer) did indeed become king of Babylon after Nebuchadnezzar, suggesting he was a highly influential figure at this time. This repetition, whether of two individuals or one with a title, further emphasizes the high caliber and authority of the Babylonian delegation that took control of Jerusalem.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Jeremiah 39:3, depicting the complete conquest of Jerusalem by the Babylonian princes, serves as a powerful historical type foreshadowing the ultimate spiritual conquest and establishment of a new kingdom by Jesus Christ. The fall of Jerusalem, a city meant to be God's dwelling place, due to its sin, points to the universal human condition of being enslaved by sin and separated from God's presence. Just as the Babylonian officials "sat in the middle gate" to establish their dominion, so too did sin and death establish their reign over humanity, creating a barrier between God and man ([Romans 5:12](/romans/5-12 "Romans 5:12 - Sin and Death Through Adam")). However, Christ, the true King, entered the "gate" of death itself, not as a conqueror of a physical city, but as the one who conquered sin and death through His sacrificial death and glorious resurrection ([Colossians 2:15](/colossians/2-15 "Colossians 2:15 - Christ's Victory Over Powers")). He established His spiritual kingdom, not by force of arms, but by grace and truth, offering freedom from the tyranny of sin to all who believe ([John 8:36](/john/8-36 "John 8:36 - Freedom Through the Son")). The "middle gate" that once marked Jerusalem's downfall now gives way to Christ, who declares Himself the "gate" through whom all may enter into eternal life and true pasture ([John 10:9](/john/10-9 "John 10:9 - Jesus, the Gate")). His reign is not temporary like that of earthly kings, but eternal, as He sits at the right hand of God, establishing a new covenant and leading His people into the heavenly Jerusalem, where there is no more judgment but only the presence of God ([Hebrews 12:22-24](/hebrews/12-22 "Hebrews 12:22-24 - The Heavenly Jerusalem"); [Revelation 21:2-4](/revelation/21-2 "Revelation 21:2-4 - The New Jerusalem")).

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 21:4

Thus saith the LORD God of Israel; Behold, I will turn back the weapons of war that [are] in your hands, wherewith ye fight against the king of Babylon, and [against] the Chaldeans, which besiege you without the walls, and I will assemble them into the midst of this city.

Jeremiah 38:17

Then said Jeremiah unto Zedekiah, Thus saith the LORD, the God of hosts, the God of Israel; If thou wilt assuredly go forth unto the king of Babylon's princes, then thy soul shall live, and this city shall not be burned with fire; and thou shalt live, and thine house:

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.

Jeremiah 39:13

So Nebuzaradan the captain of the guard sent, and Nebushasban, Rabsaris, and Nergalsharezer, Rabmag, and all the king of Babylon's princes;

2 Kings 17:30

And the men of Babylon made Succothbenoth, and the men of Cuth made Nergal, and the men of Hamath made Ashima,