Jeremiah 40:15

Then Johanan son of Kareah spoke privately to Gedaliah at Mizpah. "Let me go and kill Ishmael son of Nethaniah," he said. "No one will know it. Why should he take your life and scatter all the people of Judah who have gathered to you, so that the remnant of Judah would perish?"

Study Bible

Then Johanan son of Kareah
Johanan, whose name means "Yahweh is gracious," is a significant figure in this narrative. As the son of Kareah, he represents a remnant of leadership among the Jews left in Judah after the Babylonian conquest. His role is pivotal as he seeks to protect the fragile community that remains. Historically, Johanan's actions reflect the turbulent times and the desperate measures considered to preserve the remnant of Judah.

said privately to Gedaliah
The private nature of this conversation underscores the gravity and sensitivity of the situation. Gedaliah, appointed by the Babylonians as governor over the land, is a symbol of hope and stability for the Jews. The secrecy of Johanan's approach indicates the potential for internal conflict and the delicate balance of power. In a broader scriptural context, this reflects the recurring theme of God's people navigating leadership and governance under foreign rule.

in Mizpah
Mizpah, a significant location in biblical history, serves as a center of governance and refuge. It is here that Gedaliah establishes his administration. Archaeologically, Mizpah is identified with Tell en-Nasbeh, providing a tangible connection to the biblical narrative. The choice of Mizpah as a setting highlights its strategic and symbolic importance as a place of gathering and decision-making.

Let me go and kill Ishmael son of Nethaniah
Johanan's proposal to assassinate Ishmael reveals the intense political intrigue and the threat Ishmael poses. Ishmael, of royal descent, represents a faction opposed to Gedaliah's leadership. The Hebrew root for "kill" (הָרַג, harag) conveys the severity of Johanan's intent. This phrase illustrates the moral and ethical dilemmas faced by the remnant community, as they weigh the cost of violence against the need for survival.

No one will know it
This phrase reflects the clandestine nature of Johanan's plan, emphasizing the desperation and secrecy involved. It suggests a willingness to take extreme measures to protect the community, even if it means acting in the shadows. Theologically, it raises questions about the righteousness of actions taken in secret and the trust in God's providence versus human intervention.

Why should he be allowed to take your life
Johanan's concern for Gedaliah's life highlights the value placed on leadership and the potential chaos that could ensue from his death. The phrase underscores the vulnerability of the remnant community and the precariousness of their situation. It also reflects a broader biblical theme of the protection of God's appointed leaders and the consequences of their loss.

and scatter all the Jews who are gathered to you
The gathering of the Jews to Gedaliah signifies a moment of unity and hope for the future. Johanan's fear of scattering reflects the historical reality of the Jewish diaspora and the constant threat of dispersion. This phrase resonates with the biblical narrative of exile and return, emphasizing the importance of community and the challenges of maintaining cohesion in the face of external threats.

and the remnant of Judah?
The concept of a "remnant" is a recurring theme in the Bible, symbolizing those who survive judgment and are preserved by God's grace. The remnant of Judah represents the hope for renewal and restoration. This phrase encapsulates the tension between despair and hope, as the community seeks to rebuild amidst adversity. It serves as a reminder of God's faithfulness to His people, even in the darkest times.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Johanan son of Kareah
A military leader who was loyal to Gedaliah and concerned for his safety. He proposed a preemptive strike against Ishmael to protect the remnant of Judah.

2. Gedaliah
Appointed governor over the cities of Judah by the Babylonians after the fall of Jerusalem. He was a key figure in maintaining order and peace among the remaining Jews.

3. Ishmael son of Nethaniah
A member of the royal family who harbored ambitions against Gedaliah, leading to a conspiracy to assassinate him.

4. Mizpah
A city in Benjamin where Gedaliah set up his administration. It became a center for the remnant of Jews left in the land after the Babylonian conquest.

5. The Remnant of Judah
The Jews who remained in the land after the Babylonian exile, representing the hope for the continuation of the Jewish community in their homeland.

Teaching Points

Discernment and Leadership
Leaders must exercise discernment and wisdom, especially when faced with potential threats. Gedaliah's failure to heed Johanan's warning serves as a cautionary tale.

The Importance of Counsel
Seeking and considering wise counsel is crucial. Johanan's advice, though not heeded, was intended to protect and preserve the community.

Trust in God's Sovereignty
Even in the face of human schemes and conspiracies, believers are reminded to trust in God's overarching plan and justice.

Community and Responsibility
The remnant of Judah depended on Gedaliah's leadership. This highlights the responsibility leaders have towards their communities.

The Consequences of Inaction
Gedaliah's inaction led to devastating consequences, reminding us of the importance of timely and decisive action in the face of evil.

Bible Study Questions

1. What can we learn from Johanan's approach to Gedaliah about addressing potential threats within a community?

2. How does Gedaliah's response to Johanan's warning reflect on his leadership qualities, and what can we learn from this for our own leadership roles?

3. In what ways does the account of Gedaliah and Ishmael illustrate the importance of seeking and heeding wise counsel, and how can we apply this in our daily lives?

4. How does the concept of a "remnant" in Jeremiah 40:15 connect to other biblical themes of preservation and hope, and what does this mean for us today?

5. Reflect on a time when inaction led to negative consequences in your life. How might the lessons from Jeremiah 40:15 guide you in future decision-making?

Connections to Other Scriptures

2 Kings 25:22-26
Provides a historical account of Gedaliah's appointment and the subsequent events, including Ishmael's conspiracy.

Jeremiah 41
Details the outcome of Johanan's warning and the tragic events that followed, highlighting the consequences of Gedaliah's decision.

Proverbs 27:12
Offers wisdom on the prudence of foreseeing danger and taking refuge, which relates to Johanan's warning to Gedaliah.

Psalm 37:12-15
Speaks to the schemes of the wicked and God's ultimate justice, relevant to Ishmael's plot against Gedaliah.