Jeremiah 44:24

Then Jeremiah said to all the people, including all the women, "Hear the word of the LORD, all those of Judah who are in the land of Egypt.

Study Bible

Then Jeremiah said
The phrase indicates a continuation of a discourse, suggesting that Jeremiah is in the midst of delivering a message from God. Jeremiah, a prophet called by God, often served as a mouthpiece for divine communication. His role was not merely to predict future events but to call the people back to covenant faithfulness. The Hebrew root for "said" (אָמַר, 'amar) implies a declaration or proclamation, emphasizing the authoritative nature of Jeremiah's message.

to all the people
This phrase underscores the inclusivity of the message. Jeremiah's audience is not limited to a select group but encompasses the entire community. The Hebrew word for "people" (עַם, 'am) often refers to a collective group bound by common identity and covenant with God. This highlights the communal responsibility and the shared consequences of their actions.

including all the women
The specific mention of women is significant, as it indicates their active participation in the events being addressed. In the historical context, women in Judah had a role in religious practices, sometimes leading to syncretism and idolatry. By addressing them directly, Jeremiah acknowledges their influence and accountability in the spiritual state of the nation.

Hear the word of the LORD
This imperative call to "hear" (שָׁמַע, shama) is more than just listening; it implies obedience and response. The "word of the LORD" signifies divine revelation, carrying the weight of authority and truth. In the biblical narrative, hearing God's word is often linked to covenant obedience and blessing, while ignoring it leads to judgment.

all you people of Judah
The phrase identifies the specific audience as the people of Judah, the southern kingdom. Historically, Judah had witnessed the fall of the northern kingdom (Israel) and was now experiencing its own crisis. The mention of Judah serves as a reminder of their covenant identity and the expectations that come with it.

who are in the land of Egypt
This locational detail is crucial, as it highlights the disobedience of the people who fled to Egypt against God's command. Egypt, historically a place of bondage, symbolizes a return to old ways and a lack of trust in God's deliverance. The presence of Judah in Egypt is a physical and spiritual exile, representing their estrangement from God's promises.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Jeremiah
A major prophet in the Old Testament, known for his messages of warning and judgment to the people of Judah. He is often called the "weeping prophet" due to his deep sorrow over the people's disobedience and the resulting consequences.

2. People of Judah
The inhabitants of the southern kingdom of Judah, who were often warned by prophets like Jeremiah to turn from their idolatrous ways and return to the LORD.

3. Women of Judah
Specifically mentioned in this verse, highlighting their involvement in the idolatrous practices that Jeremiah was addressing.

4. Land of Egypt
The place where the remnant of Judah had fled after the fall of Jerusalem, despite being warned by God through Jeremiah not to go there. Egypt symbolizes a place of disobedience and reliance on human strength rather than God's provision.

5. The Word of the LORD
The divine message delivered by Jeremiah, emphasizing the authority and importance of God's communication to His people.

Teaching Points

The Importance of Obedience
Jeremiah's message underscores the necessity of obeying God's commands, even when circumstances seem dire. Disobedience leads to consequences, as seen in the plight of the people of Judah.

The Role of Women in Spiritual Matters
The specific mention of women in this passage highlights their influence and responsibility in spiritual practices, both positive and negative.

The Danger of Idolatry
The people of Judah's idolatry in Egypt serves as a warning against placing anything above God in our lives, whether it be material possessions, relationships, or personal ambitions.

God's Relentless Pursuit
Despite their disobedience, God continues to reach out to His people through Jeremiah, demonstrating His desire for their repentance and return to Him.

The Consequences of Seeking Security Outside of God
The decision to flee to Egypt represents a lack of trust in God's protection and provision, reminding us to rely on God rather than worldly solutions.

Bible Study Questions

1. What does Jeremiah's role as a prophet teach us about the importance of delivering God's message, even when it is unpopular or unwelcome?

2. How can we identify and address areas of idolatry in our own lives, drawing from the example of the people of Judah?

3. In what ways can we ensure that we are obedient to God's commands, especially when faced with difficult decisions or circumstances?

4. How does the mention of women in this passage challenge or affirm our understanding of their role in spiritual leadership and responsibility?

5. What lessons can we learn from the people of Judah's decision to seek refuge in Egypt, and how can we apply these lessons to our own lives when we are tempted to rely on worldly solutions?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Jeremiah 42-43
These chapters provide context for why the people of Judah were in Egypt, detailing their disobedience to God's command to remain in Judah.

Exodus 20:3-5
The Ten Commandments, where God explicitly commands His people not to worship other gods, which is relevant to the idolatry addressed in Jeremiah 44.

2 Kings 25
Describes the fall of Jerusalem and the subsequent flight of the remnant to Egypt, setting the stage for the events in Jeremiah 44.

Isaiah 30:1-3
Warns against seeking refuge in Egypt, paralleling the disobedience of the people of Judah in Jeremiah's time.