Jeremiah 38:9

"My lord the king, these men have acted wickedly in all that they have done to Jeremiah the prophet. They have dropped him into the cistern, where he will starve to death, for there is no more bread in the city."

Study Bible

My lord the king
This phrase is a respectful address to King Zedekiah, the last king of Judah. The use of "lord" signifies a recognition of authority and submission to the king's rule. In the Hebrew context, the word "lord" (אֲדֹנִי, adoni) is often used to denote respect and honor. Historically, Zedekiah was a weak king, often swayed by his officials, which is evident in the events surrounding Jeremiah's imprisonment.

these men have acted wickedly
The phrase highlights the moral and ethical judgment against the officials who plotted against Jeremiah. The Hebrew word for "wickedly" (רָעַע, ra'a) implies not just evil actions but a deep-seated moral corruption. This accusation underscores the gravity of their actions against God's prophet, reflecting a broader theme in Jeremiah of the struggle between true prophecy and political expediency.

in all they have done to Jeremiah the prophet
Jeremiah, known as the "weeping prophet," faced severe persecution for his messages of impending judgment. The phrase emphasizes the totality of the mistreatment he endured. The title "the prophet" (הַנָּבִיא, hanavi) affirms his divine calling and authority, reminding readers of the sacred role he played in delivering God's messages, despite the personal cost.

They have thrown him into a cistern
A cistern was a large pit or reservoir used to collect rainwater, often lined with plaster to prevent leakage. Archaeological findings in ancient Israel confirm the use of cisterns for water storage, especially in times of siege. The act of throwing Jeremiah into a cistern was not only a physical threat but also a symbolic act of silencing God's word, as cisterns were dark, isolated, and often muddy at the bottom.

where he will starve to death
This phrase conveys the dire consequences of Jeremiah's imprisonment. The Hebrew word for "starve" (רָעֵב, ra'ev) indicates extreme hunger and deprivation. The threat of starvation highlights the severity of the punishment and the officials' intent to eliminate Jeremiah without directly shedding his blood, reflecting the harsh realities of ancient Near Eastern justice.

when there is no more bread in the city
The mention of "no more bread" points to the historical context of Jerusalem under siege by the Babylonians. Bread, a staple food, symbolizes sustenance and life. The siege led to severe shortages, as recorded in other parts of Jeremiah and Lamentations. This phrase underscores the desperation and suffering of the people, as well as the urgency of Jeremiah's plight, serving as a poignant reminder of the consequences of disobedience to God.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Jeremiah
A major prophet in the Old Testament, known for his prophecies of judgment and hope. In this context, he is imprisoned in a cistern.

2. Ebed-Melech
An Ethiopian eunuch serving in the king's palace, who advocates for Jeremiah's release, demonstrating courage and righteousness.

3. King Zedekiah
The last king of Judah, who is indecisive and weak in his leadership, allowing Jeremiah to be mistreated.

4. The Cistern
A pit or well used for storing water, which in this case becomes a place of imprisonment for Jeremiah.

5. The City of Jerusalem
Under siege by the Babylonians, leading to a severe famine and desperation among its inhabitants.

Teaching Points

Courage in Advocacy
Ebed-Melech's actions remind us of the importance of standing up for righteousness, even when it is unpopular or risky.

God's Faithfulness
Despite dire circumstances, God remains faithful to His servants, as seen in Jeremiah's eventual rescue.

The Cost of Disobedience
King Zedekiah's failure to heed God's word through Jeremiah leads to personal and national disaster.

The Power of Intercession
Ebed-Melech's plea to the king demonstrates the impact one person can have when they intercede on behalf of others.

Trust in God's Plan
Jeremiah's life exemplifies trusting God's plan, even when it leads through suffering and uncertainty.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Ebed-Melech's intervention for Jeremiah challenge us to advocate for justice in our own communities?

2. In what ways does Jeremiah's experience in the cistern reflect the trials we may face when standing firm in our faith?

3. How can King Zedekiah's indecision and fear of man serve as a warning for us in our leadership roles?

4. What parallels can we draw between Ebed-Melech's faithfulness and the Ethiopian eunuch's encounter with Philip in Acts 8?

5. How does the account of Jeremiah's rescue encourage us to trust in God's deliverance, even when our circumstances seem hopeless?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Jeremiah 37-39
These chapters provide the broader context of Jeremiah's imprisonment and the political turmoil in Jerusalem.

2 Kings 25
Describes the fall of Jerusalem, providing historical context to the events surrounding Jeremiah's life.

Acts 8
The account of the Ethiopian eunuch who encounters Philip, drawing a parallel to Ebed-Melech's faith and righteousness.

Psalm 40:2
Speaks of being lifted out of a pit, metaphorically connecting to Jeremiah's physical and spiritual deliverance.

Hebrews 11
Highlights the faith of the prophets, including those who suffered for their obedience to God.