Jeremiah 41:17

KJV

And they departed, and dwelt in the habitation of Chimham, which is by Bethlehem, to go to enter into Egypt,

KJV (with Strong's)

And they departed {H3212}, and dwelt in {H3427} the habitation {H1628} of Chimham {H3643}, which is by {H681} Bethlehem {H1035}, to go {H3212} to enter {H935} into Egypt {H4714},

Complete Jewish Bible

and they left there to stay at Kimham's Lodge, near Beit-Lechem, intending to go on to Egypt

Berean Standard Bible

And they went and stayed in Geruth Chimham, near Bethlehem, in order to proceed into Egypt

American Standard Version

And they departed, and dwelt in Geruth Chimham, which is by Beth-lehem, to go to enter into Egypt,

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Jeremiah 41:17 chronicles a pivotal moment in the post-Babylonian exile narrative, detailing the flight of the Jewish remnant under Johanan son of Kareah. Driven by profound fear of Babylonian reprisal following Gedaliah's assassination, they temporarily settled at the habitation of Chimham near Bethlehem, with the explicit and fateful intention of seeking refuge in Egypt. This verse encapsulates their spiritual disorientation and reliance on human strategy, setting the stage for their impending disobedience to God's explicit command against returning to Egypt, a decision that would ultimately lead to further divine judgment.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse immediately follows the dramatic and tragic events of [Jeremiah 41](/jeremiah/41 "Jeremiah 41 - Gedaliah's Assassination and the Flight of the Remnant"). After Ishmael's treacherous assassination of Gedaliah, the Babylonian-appointed governor, Ishmael took many captives, including the king's daughters. Johanan son of Kareah and his forces pursued Ishmael, successfully rescuing the captives near Gibeon, as detailed in [Jeremiah 41:11-16](/jeremiah/41-11-16 "Jeremiah 41:11-16 - Johanan Rescues the Captives"). With the captives freed from Ishmael but still deeply fearful of Babylonian retaliation for Gedaliah's murder, the people gather. Jeremiah 41:17 describes their next strategic move: their departure from the Gibeon area and their temporary encampment as they prepare for a larger, fateful journey. This verse serves as a direct and crucial prelude to the intense confrontation between Johanan and Jeremiah in [Jeremiah 42](/jeremiah/42 "Jeremiah 42 - The Remnant Seeks Counsel from Jeremiah"), where the remnant seeks divine counsel but ultimately rejects it, determined to flee to Egypt.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The setting is the chaotic aftermath of Jerusalem's destruction and the Temple's fall in 586 BC by Nebuchadnezzar's Babylonian forces. Judah was a desolate ruin, its leadership exiled, and only a vulnerable remnant remained under Gedaliah's brief governorship. Ishmael's assassination of Gedaliah, a Babylonian appointee, plunged the remaining population into terror, as they rightly anticipated severe and swift Babylonian retribution. In the geopolitics of the ancient Near East, Egypt, despite its past role as an oppressor and its current diminished state, was still perceived by some as a potential haven or a powerful counterweight to dominant empires like Babylon. However, throughout Israel's history, God had consistently warned His people against relying on Egypt for security or returning there, as explicitly stated in [Deuteronomy 17:16](/deuteronomy/17-16 "Deuteronomy 17:16 - Warning Against Returning to Egypt"). Their intent to go to Egypt, therefore, represented a profound lack of trust in Yahweh's ability to protect them in the land He had promised, marking a return to a destructive pattern of disobedience.
* **Key Themes:** This verse powerfully contributes to several overarching themes within the book of Jeremiah and broader prophetic literature. Firstly, it underscores the pervasive theme of **Flight and Fear**, illustrating how human terror, even when seemingly justified by circumstances, can override divine guidance and lead to disastrous decisions. The people's palpable fear of Babylonian reprisal is the primary driver of their immediate actions. Secondly, it highlights the theme of **Disobedience Foreshadowed**, as their stated intention to "go to enter into Egypt" directly sets the stage for the explicit divine prohibition against this very act, delivered through Jeremiah in [Jeremiah 42:19](/jeremiah/42-19 "Jeremiah 42:19 - Jeremiah's Warning Against Going to Egypt") and subsequent verses. This foreshadows their ultimate rejection of God's word and the subsequent judgment detailed in [Jeremiah 44](/jeremiah/44 "Jeremiah 44 - Judgment on the Jews in Egypt"). Finally, the verse exemplifies the stark contrast between **Human Strategy vs. Divine Will**. The people's decision to flee to Egypt is a pragmatic, human-devised solution to their perceived danger, standing in direct opposition to God's command for them to remain in the land, trust His protection, and rebuild. Their choice reveals a deep-seated spiritual failure to rely on the Lord in a time of profound crisis.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **departed (Hebrew, _yâlak'_):** From H3212, a primitive root meaning "to walk (literally or figuratively); causatively, to carry." It denotes a wide range of motion, including "go," "come," "bear," "bring," and "depart." In this context, it signifies a decisive movement away from their previous location, indicating a deliberate act of leaving. The repetition of this root (implied in "to go to enter") emphasizes the strong intent and purpose behind their journey towards Egypt.
* **dwelt (Hebrew, _yâshab'_):** From H3427, a primitive root meaning "to sit down; by implication, to dwell, to remain; causatively, to settle, to marry." While it can imply permanent dwelling, here, especially when combined with "habitation" (gêrûwth, a temporary residence), it signifies a temporary settling or encampment. They paused their journey, taking up residence for a period, but with the clear intention of moving on.
* **Bethlehem (Hebrew, _Bêyth Lechem'_):** From H1035, meaning "house of bread." This is the renowned town in Palestine, historically significant as the birthplace of King David and, prophetically, of the Messiah. Its mention here anchors the narrative geographically to a place of profound historical and theological significance within Israel's covenant history, adding a layer of poignant irony to the people's fear-driven flight from the promised land.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And they departed, and dwelt in the habitation of Chimham,"**: Following their rescue from Ishmael's captivity, the remnant, now under Johanan's leadership, initiates a deliberate movement. They do not immediately flee but establish a temporary dwelling place. The "habitation of Chimham" (gêrûwth Kimhâm) suggests a known, perhaps established, temporary residence, caravanserai, or a family estate. Chimham is likely the son of Barzillai the Gileadite, a loyal supporter of King David, who was granted a place near Jerusalem by David (cf. [2 Samuel 19:37-38](/2_samuel/19-37-38 "2 Samuel 19:37-38 - Barzillai and Chimham")). This location would have served as a recognizable landmark, providing a brief respite or staging ground for their larger, intended journey.
* **"which is by Bethlehem,"**: This phrase precisely locates Chimham's habitation in relation to Bethlehem, a town approximately six miles south of Jerusalem. The proximity to Bethlehem is deeply significant, as it is a foundational place in Israel's history, the ancestral home of King David, and a site of immense prophetic importance. Their temporary stop here, on the very cusp of abandoning the promised land for Egypt, creates a poignant contrast between their current fear-driven flight and the rich covenantal history tied to this sacred location.
* **"to go to enter into Egypt,"**: This final clause unequivocally reveals the ultimate destination and purpose of their journey. It is not merely a temporary relocation but a determined intent to flee to Egypt. The repetition of verbs of motion ("to go to enter") emphasizes the firm resolve and settled purpose of the people. This decision, driven by their overwhelming fear of Babylonian reprisal, directly contravenes God's repeated warnings to His people against seeking refuge or strength in Egypt, foreshadowing their subsequent disobedience and the severe judgments that would inevitably follow.

#### Literary Devices
Jeremiah 41:17 employs several potent literary devices to convey its profound message. **Irony** is prominent, as the people seek "safety" in Egypt, a land that historically represented both a place of bitter bondage and a symbol of worldly reliance, repeatedly forbidden by God as a source of help or security. Their flight to Egypt, intended to secure their lives, ultimately leads to further divine judgment, creating a tragic paradox where their chosen path to preservation becomes their undoing. **Foreshadowing** is also a key device; this verse explicitly states their intention to go to Egypt, which directly sets up the subsequent narrative where Jeremiah delivers God's explicit prohibition against this very act ([Jeremiah 42](/jeremiah/42 "Jeremiah 42 - The Remnant Seeks Counsel from Jeremiah")) and the dire consequences of their disobedience ([Jeremiah 44](/jeremiah/44 "Jeremiah 44 - Judgment on the Jews in Egypt")). Finally, the mention of **Bethlehem** serves as powerful **Symbolism**. Bethlehem, the "house of bread" and the birthplace of David, represents the heart of God's covenant, His enduring promises, and the future hope for Israel. Their departure from this symbolically rich heartland towards Egypt underscores their spiritual abandonment of God's promises and their reliance on human solutions rather than divine faithfulness.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Jeremiah 41:17 is a profound theological statement on the human tendency to prioritize perceived safety over divine obedience, especially in times of profound crisis. The remnant's decision to flee to Egypt, a land God had explicitly forbidden them to return to for refuge, illustrates a fundamental distrust in God's ability or willingness to protect them in the promised land. This act of self-reliance, born of understandable fear, sets them on a path of direct rebellion against Yahweh's explicit will, revealing a deeper spiritual malaise where human reasoning and pragmatic solutions supplant divine command. It underscores the critical biblical principle that true security and lasting peace are found not in human strategies or worldly alliances, but in faithful adherence to God's word, even when circumstances seem dire or counter-intuitive. Their choice highlights the ongoing struggle between faith and fear, and the tragic consequences of choosing the latter.

* [Deuteronomy 17:16](/deuteronomy/17-16 "Deuteronomy 17:16 - Warning Against Returning to Egypt")
* [Isaiah 30:1-3](/isaiah/30-1-3 "Isaiah 30:1-3 - Woe to Rebellious Children")
* [Proverbs 3:5-6](/proverbs/3-5-6 "Proverbs 3:5-6 - Trust in the Lord with All Your Heart")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Jeremiah 41:17 provides a timeless and poignant lesson for believers navigating uncertainty and fear in their own lives. The remnant's decision, though entirely understandable from a purely human perspective given the chaos and danger, serves as a powerful cautionary tale against allowing fear to dictate our spiritual direction and override divine guidance. In moments of crisis, the temptation to devise our own "escape plans" or seek refuge in worldly solutions can be overwhelming, promising immediate relief. However, this passage reminds us that true security and wisdom lie in diligently seeking and faithfully obeying God's will, even when it seems counter-intuitive, demands radical trust, or appears to put us in greater peril. Our faith is most profoundly tested not when circumstances are easy, but when they are dire and all human options seem bleak. Just as the people of Judah were called to trust God's provision and protection in the land He had given them, we are called to abide in Christ and His word, believing that His commands are for our ultimate good, protection, and flourishing. This verse challenges us to critically examine where we place our ultimate trust: in our own ingenuity, resources, and perceived safety nets, or in the sovereign, faithful, and all-sufficient care of the Almighty God.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **What "Egypts" do I tend to flee to when faced with fear, uncertainty, or overwhelming circumstances, rather than seeking God's specific guidance?**
* **How can I cultivate a deeper, more unwavering trust in God's provision and protection, even when circumstances seem to demand a "human strategy" or when His path feels dangerous?**
* **In what ways might my own "good intentions," practical reasoning, or perceived needs lead me to disregard, rationalize, or even subtly disobey God's clear commands?**

### FAQ
**Why were the people going to Egypt?**

Answer: The people were going to Egypt primarily out of intense fear of Babylonian reprisal. After Ishmael's assassination of Gedaliah, the Babylonian-appointed governor, the Jewish remnant believed that Nebuchadnezzar would retaliate severely against them for the murder of his appointee. They saw Egypt as a safe haven from this anticipated wrath, a place where they could escape Babylonian control and secure their lives. This decision, however, was made without seeking God's will and directly against His previous commands to His people not to return to Egypt for refuge or strength, as seen in passages like [Deuteronomy 17:16](/deuteronomy/17-16 "Deuteronomy 17:16 - Warning Against Returning to Egypt").

**Who was Chimham, and what was his "habitation"?**

Answer: Chimham (H3643, _Kimhâm_) was likely the son of Barzillai the Gileadite, a wealthy and loyal supporter of King David during Absalom's rebellion (see [2 Samuel 19:37-38](/2_samuel/19-37-38 "2 Samuel 19:37-38 - Barzillai and Chimham")). David had offered to take Barzillai to Jerusalem and provide for him, but Barzillai, being old, sent his son Chimham instead. It is probable that Chimham, or his descendants, were granted land or a dwelling place near Bethlehem as a result of this royal favor. The "habitation of Chimham" (H1628, _gêrûwth_) refers to a temporary residence, possibly a caravanserai, an inn, or a family estate that served as a well-known landmark or stopping point for travelers. It was a strategic location where the remnant could gather and prepare for their onward journey to Egypt.

**What is the significance of Bethlehem being mentioned in this verse?**

Answer: The mention of Bethlehem (H1035, _Bêyth Lechem_, "house of bread") is profoundly significant and adds a layer of poignant irony to the narrative. Bethlehem is famously the birthplace of King David ([1 Samuel 17:12](/1_samuel/17-12 "1 Samuel 17:12 - David's Origins in Bethlehem")) and, prophetically, the birthplace of the Messiah ([Micah 5:2](/micah/5-2 "Micah 5:2 - Prophecy of Messiah's Birth in Bethlehem")). It represents a foundational place in Israel's covenant history, tied to God's enduring promises of a king and a future deliverer. For the remnant to pause at this sacred, hope-filled site, only to then turn their backs on the promised land and flee to Egypt, underscores their spiritual disorientation and their abandonment of God's covenant faithfulness in favor of human fear and self-preservation. It highlights the tragic contrast between God's enduring promises and the people's immediate disobedience and lack of faith.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Jeremiah 41:17, with its depiction of a fearful remnant abandoning the promised land for the perceived safety of Egypt, finds profound Christ-centered fulfillment in several ways. The people's flight represents humanity's futile attempts to find security and salvation apart from God's divine will, a pattern of disobedience that Christ perfectly reverses through His life and ministry. While the remnant fled to Egypt out of fear and ultimately faced judgment, Jesus Himself, as an infant, was taken to Egypt by divine command ([Matthew 2:13-15](/matthew/2-13-15 "Matthew 2:13-15 - Flight to Egypt")) to escape Herod's wrath, fulfilling prophecy and demonstrating His perfect obedience to the Father's sovereign plan. Unlike the people who sought refuge in a worldly power, Christ is the ultimate and true refuge, the [Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world](/john/1-29 "John 1:29 - Jesus, the Lamb of God"), offering spiritual safety that transcends any earthly threat or circumstance. The "fear" that drove the remnant is ultimately overcome by the perfect love found in Christ ([1 John 4:18](/1_john/4-18 "1 John 4:18 - Perfect Love Casts Out Fear")), which casts out all fear. Moreover, the mention of Bethlehem, the "house of bread," where the remnant briefly paused before their fateful journey, is prophetically fulfilled in Christ, who was born there ([Matthew 2:1](/matthew/2-1 "Matthew 2:1 - Jesus Born in Bethlehem")) and declared Himself the [Bread of Life](/john/6-35 "John 6:35 - Jesus, the Bread of Life"), offering true spiritual sustenance and eternal security to all who come to Him. In stark contrast to Israel's repeated failure to trust God and their reliance on human schemes, Christ embodies perfect trust and obedience, becoming the [Way, the Truth, and the Life](/john/14-6 "John 14:6 - Jesus is the Way, Truth, Life") who leads His people not into worldly bondage, but into eternal freedom, abundant life, and reconciliation with God.

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 Samuel 19:37

Let thy servant, I pray thee, turn back again, that I may die in mine own city, [and be buried] by the grave of my father and of my mother. But behold thy servant Chimham; let him go over with my lord the king; and do to him what shall seem good unto thee.

2 Samuel 19:38

And the king answered, Chimham shall go over with me, and I will do to him that which shall seem good unto thee: and whatsoever thou shalt require of me, [that] will I do for thee.

Jeremiah 42:14

Saying, No; but we will go into the land of Egypt, where we shall see no war, nor hear the sound of the trumpet, nor have hunger of bread; and there will we dwell:

Jeremiah 43:7

So they came into the land of Egypt: for they obeyed not the voice of the LORD: thus came they [even] to Tahpanhes.

Isaiah 30:2

That walk to go down into Egypt, and have not asked at my mouth; to strengthen themselves in the strength of Pharaoh, and to trust in the shadow of Egypt!

Isaiah 30:3

Therefore shall the strength of Pharaoh be your shame, and the trust in the shadow of Egypt [your] confusion.

Jeremiah 42:19

The LORD hath said concerning you, O ye remnant of Judah; Go ye not into Egypt: know certainly that I have admonished you this day.