This is the word
The phrase "This is the word" signifies a divine message or revelation. In Hebrew, "word" is "dabar," which often implies not just a spoken word but an active, dynamic communication from God. This underscores the authority and power of the message that follows, as it is not merely human opinion but a directive from the Almighty.

that came to Jeremiah
The phrase "that came to Jeremiah" indicates the prophetic nature of the message. Jeremiah, whose name means "Yahweh exalts," was chosen by God as a prophet to deliver His messages to the people of Judah. This highlights the role of prophets as intermediaries between God and His people, tasked with conveying divine will and guidance.

from the LORD
"From the LORD" emphasizes the source of the message. The term "LORD" in Hebrew is "YHWH," the sacred and personal name of God, often rendered as Yahweh. This denotes the covenantal relationship between God and Israel, reminding the audience of God's sovereignty and faithfulness despite their unfaithfulness.

when King Zedekiah sent to him
"King Zedekiah" was the last king of Judah before the Babylonian exile. His reign was marked by political instability and spiritual decline. The act of sending messengers to Jeremiah suggests a recognition of Jeremiah's prophetic authority, even if reluctantly, and indicates a moment of crisis where divine guidance was sought.

Pashhur son of Malchijah
"Pashhur son of Malchijah" was a notable figure, possibly a high-ranking official or priest. The mention of his lineage, "son of Malchijah," provides historical context and authenticity to the narrative, grounding it in real historical figures and events.

and the priest Zephaniah son of Maaseiah
"Zephaniah son of Maaseiah" was a priest, indicating the involvement of religious leaders in seeking Jeremiah's counsel. The inclusion of both a priest and a royal official in this delegation underscores the gravity of the situation and the widespread acknowledgment of Jeremiah's role as a prophet.

Please inquire of the LORD for us
This phrase reflects a moment of desperation and recognition of divine authority. The Hebrew root for "inquire" is "דָּרַשׁ" (darash), which means to seek, require, or consult. This indicates a proactive seeking of God's guidance, showing that the people, despite their rebellion, acknowledge the need for divine intervention. Historically, this request comes during a time of crisis as the Babylonian army threatens Jerusalem. It underscores the belief that God is sovereign over nations and events, and His guidance is crucial in times of distress.

because Nebuchadnezzar king of Babylon is waging war against us
This phrase situates the verse in a specific historical context. Nebuchadnezzar, known from both biblical and extra-biblical sources, was a powerful ruler of Babylon, and his campaigns against Judah are well-documented. The Hebrew term for "waging war" is "נִלְחָם" (nilcham), which conveys the idea of engaging in battle or conflict. This highlights the immediate threat facing Jerusalem and the urgency of the situation. The mention of Nebuchadnezzar serves as a reminder of the geopolitical realities of the time and the fulfillment of prophetic warnings about foreign invasions due to the people's disobedience.

Perhaps the LORD will perform for us
The word "perhaps" (אוּלַי, ulay) suggests uncertainty and hope. It reflects a glimmer of faith that God might still act on their behalf despite their unfaithfulness. The phrase "perform for us" uses the Hebrew "עָשָׂה" (asah), meaning to do or make, indicating a desire for God to intervene miraculously. This reflects a common biblical theme where God's people, even in their waywardness, hope for His mercy and deliverance.

something like all His past wonders
This phrase recalls the mighty acts of God in Israel's history, such as the Exodus and the conquest of Canaan. The Hebrew word for "wonders" is "נִפְלָאוֹת" (niflaot), which refers to extraordinary acts that inspire awe. By invoking God's past deeds, the people express a longing for a return to divine favor and miraculous intervention. This appeal to history serves as a reminder of God's power and faithfulness, encouraging believers to trust in His ability to deliver and save, even when circumstances seem dire.

But Jeremiah
The name "Jeremiah" is derived from the Hebrew "Yirmeyahu," meaning "Yahweh will exalt" or "Yahweh throws." Jeremiah, known as the "weeping prophet," was called by God to deliver messages of judgment and hope to the people of Judah. His role as a prophet was not just to foretell future events but to call the people back to covenant faithfulness. In this context, Jeremiah stands as a faithful servant of God, ready to deliver a difficult message to the king, demonstrating his unwavering commitment to God's truth despite personal risk.

answered them
The act of answering implies a response to a prior inquiry or request. In this historical context, King Zedekiah had sent envoys to Jeremiah seeking divine guidance during a time of crisis, as the Babylonian army threatened Jerusalem. Jeremiah's response is not merely his own opinion but a message from God. This highlights the role of prophets as intermediaries between God and His people, tasked with conveying divine will and instruction. The gravity of Jeremiah's response underscores the seriousness of the situation and the importance of heeding God's word.

Tell Zedekiah
Zedekiah, the last king of Judah, reigned during a tumultuous period marked by political instability and impending destruction. His name, meaning "Yahweh is righteousness," stands in stark contrast to his actions, as he often wavered in his allegiance to God. The instruction to "tell Zedekiah" signifies a direct communication from God to the king, emphasizing the personal nature of God's message. It serves as a reminder that leaders are accountable to God and that divine guidance is available even in dire circumstances. The historical context of Zedekiah's reign, marked by rebellion against Babylon and reliance on foreign alliances, sets the stage for the prophetic message that follows, urging repentance and trust in God alone.

This is what the LORD, the God of Israel, says
This phrase establishes the authority and divine origin of the message. The Hebrew term for "LORD" is "YHWH," the sacred and personal name of God, emphasizing His covenant relationship with Israel. "The God of Israel" reaffirms His unique relationship with His chosen people, reminding them of His past faithfulness and their obligations under the covenant. This introduction underscores the seriousness and divine authority behind the forthcoming message.

I will turn back the weapons of war in your hands
The phrase "turn back" in Hebrew is "haphak," which can mean to overturn or transform. Here, it signifies God's intervention to render the weapons ineffective. The "weapons of war" symbolize human efforts and reliance on military might. This highlights a key biblical theme: the futility of trusting in human strength over divine power. God is demonstrating that without His blessing, even the mightiest weapons are powerless.

which you are using to fight the king of Babylon and the Babylonians
The historical context is crucial here. The "king of Babylon" refers to Nebuchadnezzar, a powerful ruler whose empire was a tool of God's judgment. The Babylonians, or "Chaldeans," were known for their military prowess. This phrase underscores the dire situation facing Jerusalem, as they were attempting to resist a divinely ordained force. It serves as a reminder of the consequences of disobedience to God’s commands and the futility of opposing His will.

who are besieging you outside the wall
The siege is a literal and symbolic representation of judgment. In ancient warfare, a siege was a prolonged and devastating tactic, often leading to severe hardship. The "wall" represents the last line of defense, both physically and spiritually. This imagery conveys the inescapable nature of God’s judgment when His people persist in rebellion. It also serves as a call to repentance, urging the people to seek God’s mercy.

and I will gather them inside this city
The phrase "I will gather" uses the Hebrew "qabats," indicating an intentional act of bringing together. This is a divine action, showing that God is orchestrating events according to His sovereign plan. The "city" refers to Jerusalem, the heart of Israel’s spiritual and political life. This statement is both a warning and a prophecy of the impending capture and destruction of Jerusalem, emphasizing that God’s presence is not confined to a place but is contingent on the people’s faithfulness.

I Myself
This phrase emphasizes the personal involvement of God in the situation. In the Hebrew text, the use of "I Myself" underscores the direct action of Yahweh, indicating that this is not a delegated task but one that God takes upon Himself. It reflects the seriousness of the situation and the personal nature of the covenant relationship between God and His people. Historically, this is a moment where God is directly addressing the leaders of Judah, showing that their actions have warranted His direct intervention.

will fight against you
The Hebrew root for "fight" is "לחם" (lacham), which means to engage in battle or warfare. This is a stark reversal of the usual role of God as the protector and defender of Israel. Instead of fighting for His people, God is now positioned as their adversary due to their persistent disobedience and idolatry. This phrase serves as a sobering reminder of the consequences of turning away from God's commandments and the covenant.

with an outstretched hand
The imagery of an "outstretched hand" is often used in the Old Testament to depict God's power and intervention, whether in deliverance or judgment. In Exodus, God's outstretched hand brought plagues upon Egypt, demonstrating His power over nations. Here, it signifies God's readiness and determination to execute judgment against Judah. The historical context is crucial, as Judah is facing the threat of Babylonian invasion, and this phrase indicates that God is actively allowing this as a form of judgment.

and a mighty arm
The "mighty arm" symbolizes strength and power. In Hebrew, "זרוע" (zeroa) is often associated with God's ability to accomplish His will. This phrase reassures the reader of God's omnipotence, but in this context, it is a fearsome reminder of His capability to bring about justice and judgment. Theologically, it serves as a warning that God's patience has limits, and His power can be directed against those who oppose His will.

with anger and fury and great wrath
These terms collectively describe the intensity of God's emotional response to the sin and rebellion of His people. "Anger" (אף, aph), "fury" (חמה, chemah), and "great wrath" (קצף גדול, qetseph gadol) convey a progression of divine displeasure. This triad of terms is used to emphasize the severity of the situation and the depth of God's righteous indignation. In the scriptural context, it reflects the culmination of Judah's persistent idolatry and injustice, which has provoked God to act decisively. From a conservative Christian perspective, this serves as a powerful reminder of the holiness of God and the seriousness with which He views sin. It calls believers to repentance and a renewed commitment to living in accordance with God's will.

I will strike down
This phrase indicates a direct action from God, emphasizing His sovereignty and power over life and death. The Hebrew root here is "נָכָה" (nakah), which means to smite or strike. This is a reminder of God's authority and the seriousness of sin. In the context of Jeremiah, it reflects God's judgment upon Jerusalem due to their persistent disobedience and idolatry. Historically, this is a period where the people of Judah were facing the consequences of turning away from God, and this phrase underscores the certainty and severity of divine judgment.

the residents of this city
The "residents" refers to the inhabitants of Jerusalem, the capital of Judah. This city was central to Jewish life, both politically and spiritually. The Hebrew word "יֹשֵׁב" (yoshev) implies those who dwell or inhabit, indicating that the judgment is comprehensive, affecting all who live there. Jerusalem, being the city of David and the location of the Temple, held significant religious importance. The mention of its residents highlights the collective responsibility and the widespread nature of the sin that had permeated the society.

both man and beast
This phrase illustrates the totality of the impending judgment. The inclusion of "beast" alongside "man" signifies that the consequences of sin affect all of creation, not just humanity. The Hebrew words "אָדָם" (adam) for man and "בְּהֵמָה" (behemah) for beast show that the natural order is also subject to the repercussions of human sin. This reflects the interconnectedness of creation, as seen in Genesis, where the fall of man brought a curse upon the earth. It serves as a sobering reminder of the far-reaching impact of sin.

They will die
The inevitability of death here is a direct result of divine judgment. The Hebrew verb "מוּת" (muth) means to die or perish, indicating the finality of the judgment. This is not just a physical death but also symbolizes spiritual death and separation from God. In the broader biblical narrative, death is the ultimate consequence of sin, as stated in Romans 6:23, "For the wages of sin is death." This phrase calls believers to reflect on the seriousness of sin and the need for repentance and redemption through Christ.

in a terrible plague
The "terrible plague" is a specific form of judgment, often used in the Old Testament as a means of divine retribution. The Hebrew word "דֶּבֶר" (deber) refers to pestilence or plague, which historically were seen as acts of God to bring about repentance or to punish. In the context of Jeremiah, this plague is part of the larger narrative of the Babylonian siege and the suffering that would come upon Jerusalem. It serves as a warning of the consequences of turning away from God and a call to return to Him in faithfulness. This phrase encourages believers to trust in God's mercy and seek His protection, knowing that He is just and righteous in all His ways.

After that, declares the LORD
This phrase sets the stage for a divine pronouncement, emphasizing the authority and certainty of God's word. The Hebrew root for "declares" (נְאֻם, ne'um) is often used in prophetic literature to signify a solemn and authoritative statement from God. It underscores the seriousness of the message and the inevitability of its fulfillment. In the context of Jeremiah, it serves as a reminder of God's sovereignty and the fulfillment of His prophetic word.

I will deliver Zedekiah king of Judah
Zedekiah was the last king of Judah, and his reign was marked by political instability and spiritual decline. The Hebrew word for "deliver" (נָתַן, natan) can also mean "to give" or "to hand over," indicating a transfer of power and control. This phrase highlights the consequences of Zedekiah's disobedience and the fulfillment of God's judgment. Historically, Zedekiah's reign ended with the Babylonian conquest, fulfilling Jeremiah's prophecy.

his officials, and the people in this city who survive the plague, the sword, and the famine
This phrase paints a grim picture of the calamities that have befallen Jerusalem. The mention of "plague, the sword, and the famine" reflects the triad of judgments often seen in the Old Testament as instruments of divine wrath. The Hebrew context suggests a comprehensive devastation, leaving only a remnant. This serves as a sobering reminder of the consequences of turning away from God and the reality of divine justice.

into the hand of Nebuchadnezzar king of Babylon
Nebuchadnezzar was the powerful ruler of Babylon, and his name is synonymous with the Babylonian exile. The phrase "into the hand" (בְּיַד, b'yad) signifies control and domination. Historically, Nebuchadnezzar's conquest of Jerusalem in 586 BC was a pivotal event, leading to the destruction of the temple and the exile of the Jewish people. This phrase underscores the fulfillment of God's judgment through historical events.

into the hands of their enemies who seek their lives
This phrase emphasizes the dire situation facing the people of Judah. The repetition of "hands" (יָד, yad) highlights the complete control and power their enemies have over them. The phrase "who seek their lives" indicates a relentless pursuit and intent to destroy. This serves as a stark warning of the consequences of forsaking God's protection and the reality of living under the threat of hostile forces.

He will put them to the sword
The imagery of the sword is a common biblical metaphor for judgment and destruction. The Hebrew word for "sword" (חֶרֶב, cherev) often symbolizes divine retribution. This phrase conveys the severity of the judgment that awaits those who have turned away from God. It serves as a reminder of the seriousness of sin and the ultimate justice of God.

he will not spare them or show pity or compassion
This final phrase underscores the totality of the judgment. The Hebrew words for "spare" (חָמַל, chamal), "pity" (חָס, chas), and "compassion" (רַחֵם, rachem) all convey a sense of mercy and leniency, which are notably absent in this context. This serves as a sobering reminder of the consequences of persistent disobedience and the reality of divine justice. It highlights the importance of repentance and turning back to God to avoid such severe judgment.

Furthermore, you are to tell this people
This phrase indicates a direct command from God to the prophet Jeremiah. The Hebrew word for "tell" is "אָמַר" (amar), which means to speak or declare. This emphasizes the role of the prophet as a mouthpiece for God, tasked with delivering His message to the people. The phrase "this people" refers to the Israelites, specifically the inhabitants of Jerusalem, who were facing imminent judgment due to their persistent disobedience. This highlights the personal and communal nature of God's communication, as He addresses them directly through His prophet.

that this is what the LORD says
The phrase underscores the authority and divine origin of the message. "LORD" is translated from the Hebrew "יהוה" (YHWH), the sacred and covenantal name of God, emphasizing His eternal and unchanging nature. This assures the audience that the message is not Jeremiah's own, but a direct revelation from God Himself. It serves as a reminder of God's sovereignty and His right to judge and guide His people.

Behold
The Hebrew word "הִנֵּה" (hinneh) is used here, which can be translated as "look" or "see." It is an attention-grabbing word, meant to alert the listeners to the importance and urgency of the message. It calls the people to focus and consider carefully what is about to be presented to them, indicating that the following message is of critical importance.

I set before you
This phrase indicates a deliberate action by God, presenting a choice to the people. The Hebrew root "שׂוּם" (sum) means to place or set, suggesting that God is actively placing options before the Israelites. This reflects God's respect for human free will, allowing them to choose their path, while also holding them accountable for their decisions.

the way of life and the way of death
The "way" in Hebrew is "דֶּרֶךְ" (derekh), which means a path or road. This metaphorical language presents two distinct paths or lifestyles with corresponding outcomes. "Life" (חַיִּים, chayyim) and "death" (מָוֶת, mavet) are not just physical states but represent spiritual realities and consequences. Historically, this choice was literal, as the people faced destruction from the Babylonian siege. Scripturally, it echoes the choices presented in Deuteronomy 30:19, where God sets before the Israelites life and death, blessings and curses. This duality underscores the consistent biblical theme of covenantal faithfulness leading to life, while rebellion leads to death. It serves as a timeless reminder of the importance of choosing obedience to God, which leads to spiritual and often physical life, over the path of disobedience, which leads to spiritual and often physical death.

Whoever stays in this city
This phrase refers to the inhabitants of Jerusalem during the time of the Babylonian siege. The Hebrew word for "stays" (יָשַׁב, yashab) implies dwelling or remaining. Historically, Jerusalem was under threat due to its disobedience to God, and the call to leave signifies a divine warning. The city, once a symbol of God's presence, had become a place of impending judgment due to the people's unfaithfulness.

will die by the sword, famine, and plague
These three calamities—sword, famine, and plague—are often mentioned together in the Old Testament as instruments of divine judgment (e.g., Ezekiel 5:12). The "sword" represents warfare and violence, "famine" indicates a severe lack of food, and "plague" suggests disease. Each of these is a consequence of the people's rebellion against God, highlighting the severity of their situation and the certainty of judgment for those who remain in defiance.

but whoever goes out and surrenders
The act of "going out" and "surrendering" (יָצָא, yatsa and נָפַל, naphal) is a call to humility and obedience. In the historical context, surrendering to the Chaldeans (Babylonians) was counterintuitive, as it meant submitting to a foreign power. However, this was God's directive through Jeremiah, symbolizing a path to life through submission to His will, even when it seems contrary to human wisdom.

to the Chaldeans who besiege you
The "Chaldeans" were the Babylonians, a dominant empire used by God as an instrument of judgment against Judah. The siege was a physical manifestation of God's discipline. Understanding the Chaldeans' role in biblical history is crucial, as they were not just political adversaries but also part of God's sovereign plan to bring His people back to repentance.

will live and retain his life like a spoil of war
The promise of life "like a spoil of war" (שָׁלָל, shalal) is a powerful metaphor. In ancient times, spoils of war were the rewards taken by victors. Here, life itself is depicted as a prize, emphasizing the grace and mercy available to those who heed God's warning. This phrase underscores the theme of redemption and the possibility of restoration even amidst judgment, pointing to God's ultimate desire for His people's repentance and survival.

For I have set My face
The phrase "set My face" is a Hebrew idiom that signifies a determined and resolute decision. In the context of the Old Testament, when God "sets His face" against something, it indicates His unwavering intention to act in judgment. This expression underscores the seriousness of God's resolve. Historically, this reflects the divine judgment that was to come upon Jerusalem due to its persistent disobedience and idolatry. The imagery of God setting His face against the city conveys a sense of divine focus and determination, emphasizing that the impending judgment is both deliberate and unavoidable.

against this city
The "city" referred to here is Jerusalem, the heart of Judah and the center of Jewish worship and identity. Jerusalem held a special place in the hearts of the Israelites as the location of the Temple, the dwelling place of God's presence. However, despite its sacred status, the city's inhabitants had turned away from God, leading to this pronouncement of judgment. The historical context reveals a city that had repeatedly ignored prophetic warnings, choosing instead to follow false gods and corrupt practices. This phrase highlights the gravity of the situation, as even the holy city is not exempt from God's righteous judgment.

to bring disaster and not good
The contrast between "disaster" and "good" is stark and intentional. The Hebrew word for "disaster" (רָעָה, ra'ah) often denotes calamity or evil, while "good" (טוֹב, tov) signifies prosperity and blessing. This juxtaposition serves to emphasize the severity of the consequences that Jerusalem will face due to its rebellion. In a broader theological context, this reflects the principle that God's blessings are contingent upon obedience, and His judgments are a response to persistent sin. The phrase serves as a sobering reminder of the seriousness of turning away from God's commands.

declares the LORD
This phrase is a common prophetic formula that underscores the authority and certainty of the message. When the prophets use "declares the LORD," it signifies that the words spoken are not their own but are directly from God. This divine declaration assures the audience that the prophecy is not merely a human prediction but a guaranteed outcome ordained by God. It reinforces the idea that the impending judgment is not arbitrary but is a fulfillment of God's righteous standards.

It will be given into the hand of the king of Babylon
The "king of Babylon" refers to Nebuchadnezzar, who was the instrument of God's judgment against Jerusalem. Historically, this prophecy was fulfilled when Nebuchadnezzar besieged and captured Jerusalem, leading to the Babylonian exile. The phrase "given into the hand" indicates a transfer of power and control, signifying that God is sovereign over nations and uses them to accomplish His purposes. This highlights the theme of divine sovereignty, where even powerful empires like Babylon are under God's ultimate authority.

and he will destroy it with fire
The destruction "with fire" is a vivid depiction of total devastation. Fire in the ancient world was often used as a means of complete destruction, leaving nothing behind. This prophecy was literally fulfilled when the Babylonians burned Jerusalem, including the Temple, to the ground. The use of fire symbolizes not only physical destruction but also the purifying judgment of God. In a spiritual sense, it serves as a warning of the consequences of sin and the need for repentance and renewal. This phrase encapsulates the finality and thoroughness of God's judgment upon a city that had forsaken Him.

Moreover
This word serves as a continuation or an addition to what has been previously stated. In the context of Jeremiah 21, it indicates that the message is part of a larger discourse. The Hebrew word used here is "וְאֶל" (ve'el), which connects the previous judgments pronounced on Jerusalem with a specific message to the royal house. It underscores the seriousness and continuity of God's message through Jeremiah.

say
The Hebrew word "אָמַר" (amar) is used here, which means to speak or declare. This is a command from God to Jeremiah, emphasizing the prophet's role as a mouthpiece for divine communication. It highlights the authority and responsibility of prophets in delivering God's messages, regardless of the audience's status or power.

to the house of the king of Judah
This phrase identifies the specific audience of the message. The "house of the king" refers to the royal family and the governing authorities of Judah. Historically, this was a time when the kingdom of Judah was under threat from Babylonian forces. The phrase underscores the accountability of leaders before God and their role in guiding the nation according to His will.

Hear
The Hebrew word "שָׁמַע" (shama) means to listen or obey. It is a call not just to hear audibly but to understand and act upon the message. This imperative highlights the importance of receptivity to God's word, especially for those in positions of leadership. It is a reminder that true hearing involves obedience and transformation.

the word of the LORD
This phrase signifies the divine origin and authority of the message. "The word of the LORD" is a common biblical expression denoting a revelation from God. In Hebrew, "דְּבַר־יְהוָה" (devar-YHWH) is used, emphasizing that the message is not Jeremiah's own but is directly from God. It serves as a reminder of the power and truth of God's word, which stands above human wisdom and authority.

O house of David
This phrase refers to the royal lineage of King David, emphasizing the responsibility and authority vested in the Davidic dynasty. Historically, the "house of David" signifies the leadership of Judah, which was expected to uphold God's covenant and lead the people in righteousness. The mention of David's house serves as a reminder of the covenantal promises and the expectations of justice and righteousness that come with it.

this is what the LORD says
This phrase underscores the divine authority behind the message. The Hebrew term for "LORD" is "Yahweh," the covenant name of God, indicating that the message is not merely a human opinion but a divine mandate. It emphasizes the seriousness and urgency of the command, as it comes directly from God.

Administer justice every morning
The call to "administer justice" highlights the daily responsibility of leaders to ensure fairness and righteousness. The phrase "every morning" suggests consistency and diligence, as morning was the time when judicial matters were typically addressed in ancient Israel. This reflects God's desire for continual and proactive justice, not sporadic or delayed actions.

and rescue the victim of robbery from the hand of his oppressor
This command focuses on the protection of the vulnerable and the oppressed. The Hebrew word for "rescue" implies an active intervention to deliver someone from harm. The "victim of robbery" represents those who have been wronged or exploited, and the "oppressor" symbolizes those who misuse power. This reflects God's heart for justice and His call for leaders to defend the defenseless.

or My wrath will break out like fire
The imagery of God's wrath as fire conveys the intensity and consuming nature of divine judgment. Fire in the biblical context often symbolizes purification and destruction. This serves as a warning of the consequences of failing to uphold justice, emphasizing that God's patience has limits when it comes to persistent injustice.

and burn with no one to extinguish it
This phrase indicates the inevitability and inescapability of God's judgment if the call to justice is ignored. The inability to "extinguish" the fire suggests that once God's judgment is set in motion, human efforts cannot avert it. It serves as a sobering reminder of the seriousness of God's commands and the dire consequences of disobedience.

because of your evil deeds
The phrase "evil deeds" points to the root cause of the impending judgment. It highlights the moral and ethical failures of the leaders and the people. The Hebrew term for "evil" encompasses actions that are morally wrong and contrary to God's will. This serves as a call to repentance and a return to righteous living, aligning with God's standards.

Behold
The Hebrew word for "behold" is "הִנֵּה" (hinneh), which serves as an attention-grabbing exclamation. It is often used in the Bible to signal the importance of what follows. In this context, it underscores the seriousness of God's message to the people of Jerusalem. It is a divine alert, calling the people to pay attention to the impending judgment.

I am against you
This phrase is a direct declaration from God, indicating His opposition. The Hebrew root "נגד" (nagad) implies a stance of confrontation. Historically, this is a sobering statement, as it reflects God's judgment against the people due to their persistent disobedience and idolatry. It is a reminder of the covenant relationship where blessings and curses were contingent upon Israel's faithfulness.

O valley dweller
The term "valley dweller" refers to the inhabitants of Jerusalem, which is geographically situated in a valley surrounded by hills. The Hebrew word "יֹשֵׁב" (yoshev) means inhabitant or dweller. This phrase highlights the false sense of security the people felt due to their city's natural defenses. Archaeologically, Jerusalem's location was strategic, but God is emphasizing that no physical geography can protect them from divine judgment.

O rocky plain
This phrase further describes the topography of Jerusalem. The Hebrew "צוּר" (tsur) means rock or rocky place, emphasizing the city's perceived impregnability. Historically, Jerusalem's fortifications were considered strong, yet God is declaring that their trust in physical defenses is misplaced. The imagery serves to contrast their reliance on earthly strength with the need for spiritual fidelity.

declares the LORD
The phrase "declares the LORD" is a prophetic formula used throughout the Old Testament. The Hebrew "נְאֻם יְהוָה" (ne'um YHWH) signifies a solemn pronouncement from God. It assures the reader of the divine authority and certainty of the message. In a conservative Christian perspective, this underscores the belief in the inerrancy and authority of Scripture as God's revealed word.

you who say, ‘Who can come against us? Who can enter our dwellings?’
This phrase captures the arrogance and complacency of the people of Jerusalem. The rhetorical questions reflect their misguided confidence in their city's defenses. The Hebrew "יָבוֹא" (yavo) means to come or enter, indicating their belief in invulnerability. Scripturally, this attitude is reminiscent of other biblical instances where human pride precedes a fall, such as in Proverbs 16:18. It serves as a warning against self-reliance and a call to trust in God alone.

I will punish you
The Hebrew root for "punish" is "פָּקַד" (paqad), which can mean to attend to, visit, or reckon. In this context, it signifies God's direct intervention in response to the actions of the people. The concept of divine retribution is central to the prophetic literature, emphasizing that God is just and will hold individuals and nations accountable for their actions. This phrase underscores the certainty of divine justice, reminding believers that God is not indifferent to sin.

according to the fruit of your deeds
The "fruit" metaphor is frequently used in Scripture to denote the outcomes or consequences of one's actions. The Hebrew word for "fruit" is "פְּרִי" (peri), which implies that actions have tangible results. This phrase highlights the biblical principle of sowing and reaping, as seen in Galatians 6:7-8. It serves as a warning that the moral and ethical choices of individuals and nations will yield corresponding consequences, reinforcing the call to live righteously.

declares the LORD
The phrase "declares the LORD" is a prophetic formula used to assert the authority and certainty of the message. The Hebrew word for "declares" is "נְאֻם" (ne'um), which conveys a solemn pronouncement. This phrase assures the audience that the message is not merely the prophet's opinion but a divine revelation. It emphasizes the reliability and unchangeable nature of God's word, encouraging believers to trust in His promises and warnings.

I will kindle a fire in your forest
The imagery of fire is a powerful symbol of judgment and purification in the Bible. The Hebrew word for "kindle" is "יָקַד" (yaqad), meaning to ignite or set ablaze. The "forest" can symbolize the strength and pride of a nation, often representing its resources and defenses. This phrase suggests that God's judgment will penetrate even the most fortified and seemingly secure areas, illustrating the inescapable nature of divine retribution.

that will consume everything around you
The Hebrew root for "consume" is "אָכַל" (akal), which means to eat or devour. This phrase paints a vivid picture of total destruction, indicating that the judgment will be comprehensive and leave nothing untouched. It serves as a sobering reminder of the seriousness of turning away from God and the devastating consequences of sin. For believers, it is a call to repentance and a return to faithful obedience, trusting in God's mercy and grace.