41:2 41:2

Jeremiah 41:3

41:4 41:4

Bible Versions

Ishmael also slew all the Jews that were with him, [even] with Gedaliah, at Mizpah, and the Chaldeans that were found there, [and] the men of war.
Ishmael {H3458} also slew {H5221} all the Jews {H3064} that were with him, even with Gedaliah {H1436}, at Mizpah {H4709}, and the Chaldeans {H3778} that were found {H4672} there, and the men {H582} of war {H4421}.
Yishma'el also murdered all the Judeans who were with G'dalyahu at Mitzpah, as well as the Kasdim soldiers they found there.
Ishmael also killed all the Jews who were with Gedaliah at Mizpah, as well as the Chaldean soldiers who were there.
Ishmael also slew all the Jews that were with him, to wit, with Gedaliah, at Mizpah, and the Chaldeans that were found there, the men of war.

Context of Jeremiah 41:3

Jeremiah 41:3 falls within a tragic and turbulent period in Judah's history, immediately following the devastating fall of Jerusalem to the Babylonians in 586 BC. While many Jews were deported to Babylon, a remnant was left in the land, and Nebuzaradan, the captain of the Babylonian guard, appointed Gedaliah, a trustworthy man, as governor over them (Jeremiah 40:5). Mizpah became the administrative center for this remnant. The prophet Jeremiah himself was released and chose to stay with Gedaliah. However, this fragile peace was shattered by Ishmael, a man of royal descent, who conspired with Baalis, king of the Ammonites, out of jealousy and perhaps a misguided sense of nationalistic zeal (Jeremiah 40:14).

This verse details the extent of Ishmael's murderous rampage. Having already assassinated Gedaliah in the previous verse (Jeremiah 41:2), Ishmael's treachery continues, eliminating anyone who might oppose him or represent the new order.

Key Themes and Messages

  • The Destructive Nature of Betrayal: Ishmael's actions are a stark example of internal strife and unchecked ambition leading to horrific violence. His betrayal of Gedaliah, who sought peace and stability for the remnant, plunges the community into further chaos.
  • Consequences of Unbelief and Disunity: Even after the severe judgment of the Babylonian conquest, the people of Judah continued to struggle with internal divisions and a lack of trust in God's guidance, often through Jeremiah. This act of violence underscores the spiritual and political disarray.
  • The Extent of Human Depravity: The verse highlights the brutal reality of human sinfulness, where personal gain or misguided ideology can lead to the indiscriminate slaughter of innocent people, including fellow Jews, Babylonian representatives, and soldiers.

Linguistic Insights

The KJV phrase "slew all" comes from the Hebrew verb nakah (נָכָה), which means "to strike, to smite, to beat, to kill." Its usage here emphasizes the violent and decisive nature of Ishmael's actions, indicating a complete and ruthless elimination of those present. The term "Chaldeans" refers to the Babylonians, who were the ruling power and had appointed Gedaliah. Their presence at Mizpah signifies the new political reality under Babylonian control, which Ishmael violently rejected.

Practical Application

Jeremiah 41:3 serves as a sobering reminder of the dangers of internal conflict, envy, and unchecked ambition, especially within a community or nation.

  • Beware of Internal Strife: This passage vividly illustrates how internal divisions and betrayals can be as destructive, if not more so, than external threats. It reminds us of the importance of unity and trust within any group, be it a family, a church, or a nation.
  • The Cost of Disobedience: The persistent cycle of violence and lack of peace in Judah, even after God's judgments, highlights the ongoing consequences of rejecting divine wisdom and leadership.
  • Discernment of Character: The narrative underscores the need for discernment in leadership and relationships, as not all who appear to be allies have pure motives.

This tragic event ultimately led to further fear among the remnant, causing them to flee to Egypt against Jeremiah's explicit warnings, leading to further judgment (Jeremiah 42:1 onwards).

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.

  • 2 Kings 25:25

    But it came to pass in the seventh month, that Ishmael the son of Nethaniah, the son of Elishama, of the seed royal, came, and ten men with him, and smote Gedaliah, that he died, and the Jews and the Chaldees that were with him at Mizpah.

  • Ecclesiastes 9:18

    Wisdom [is] better than weapons of war: but one sinner destroyeth much good.

  • Jeremiah 41:11

    ¶ But when Johanan the son of Kareah, and all the captains of the forces that [were] with him, heard of all the evil that Ishmael the son of Nethaniah had done,

  • Jeremiah 41:12

    Then they took all the men, and went to fight with Ishmael the son of Nethaniah, and found him by the great waters that [are] in Gibeon.

  • Lamentations 1:2

    She weepeth sore in the night, and her tears [are] on her cheeks: among all her lovers she hath none to comfort [her]: all her friends have dealt treacherously with her, they are become her enemies.
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