Jeremiah 43:8
Then the word of the LORD came to Jeremiah at Tahpanhes:
Then the word of the LORD
This phrase signifies the divine communication that Jeremiah, as a prophet, receives directly from God. In Hebrew, "word" is "dabar," which implies not just a spoken word but an active, dynamic force that accomplishes God's will. This underscores the authority and power of God's message, reminding us that Scripture is not merely historical text but a living, active revelation. The phrase emphasizes the continuity of God's communication with His people, even in times of rebellion and exile.

came to Jeremiah
Jeremiah, known as the "weeping prophet," is a central figure in the Old Testament, chosen by God to deliver His messages to the people of Judah. The Hebrew root for "came" is "hayah," which can mean "to happen" or "to come to pass," indicating that this is a divinely orchestrated event. Jeremiah's role as a prophet is not self-appointed; it is a calling from God, highlighting the importance of divine election and obedience in the life of a believer.

at Tahpanhes
Tahpanhes was an ancient city in Egypt, known today as Tell Defenneh. Its mention here is significant because it represents a place of refuge for the remnant of Judah who fled there after the fall of Jerusalem. Archaeological evidence supports its existence as a bustling city during Jeremiah's time. The location underscores the theme of disobedience, as the people of Judah were instructed by God to remain in their land, yet they sought safety in Egypt. This serves as a reminder of the consequences of not trusting in God's promises and plans, and it highlights the historical reality of the biblical narrative.

Persons / Places / Events
1. Jeremiah
A major prophet in the Old Testament, known for his prophecies concerning the destruction of Jerusalem and the subsequent exile of the Jewish people. He is often called the "weeping prophet" due to his deep sorrow over the sins of his people and their consequences.

2. The LORD
The covenant name of God, Yahweh, who communicates His will and guidance through His prophets. In this context, God is delivering a message to His people through Jeremiah.

3. Tahpanhes
An ancient city in Egypt where the remnant of Judah fled after the fall of Jerusalem. It was a significant location for the Jewish exiles and served as a backdrop for Jeremiah's prophecies.

4. The Word of the LORD
Refers to the divine message or revelation given to Jeremiah. This phrase emphasizes the authority and divine origin of the message being delivered.

5. The Remnant of Judah
The group of Israelites who survived the Babylonian conquest and chose to flee to Egypt, against God's command to remain in the land of Judah.
Teaching Points
Obedience to God's Word
God's instructions are clear and purposeful. The remnant's decision to flee to Egypt, despite God's command to stay, serves as a cautionary tale about the consequences of disobedience.

Trust in God's Plan
Even in times of uncertainty and fear, believers are called to trust in God's sovereignty and His plans for their lives, rather than seeking security in worldly solutions.

The Role of Prophets
Prophets like Jeremiah serve as God's mouthpiece, delivering messages that may challenge or convict. It is crucial to heed their words as they are divinely inspired.

The Danger of Rebellion
The remnant's rebellion against God's command illustrates the human tendency to rely on self-will rather than divine guidance, leading to spiritual and physical peril.

Historical Lessons
Reflecting on past events, such as the Israelites' bondage in Egypt, can provide valuable lessons for current spiritual journeys, reminding believers of God's faithfulness and deliverance.
Bible Study Questions
1. What can we learn from the remnant of Judah's decision to flee to Egypt, and how does it apply to our own decision-making processes today?

2. How does Jeremiah's role as a prophet challenge us to listen to and discern God's voice in our lives?

3. In what ways do we seek security in "Egypt" (worldly solutions) rather than trusting in God's provision and protection?

4. How can the historical context of Israel's past experiences in Egypt inform our understanding of God's faithfulness and deliverance?

5. What steps can we take to ensure that we are obedient to God's Word, even when it contradicts our own desires or plans?
Connections to Other Scriptures
Jeremiah 42
This chapter provides context for Jeremiah 43:8, where the remnant of Judah seeks guidance from God through Jeremiah, promising to obey whatever God commands. However, they ultimately disobey by fleeing to Egypt.

Exodus 14
The Israelites' previous experience in Egypt during the time of Moses serves as a historical backdrop, highlighting the irony of returning to a place of former bondage.

Isaiah 30:1-3
This passage warns against seeking refuge in Egypt, emphasizing reliance on God rather than foreign powers for security and deliverance.
Hearts Set to Do EvilS. Conway Jeremiah 43:1-13
Building on the SandS. Conway Jeremiah 43:8-13
Jeremiah Hides the Stones in the Brick KilnA London MinisterJeremiah 43:8-13
The Stones of TahpanhesA.F. Muir Jeremiah 43:8-13
The Visitation Upon EgyptD. Young Jeremiah 43:8-13
People
Ahikam, Azariah, Babylonians, Baruch, Egyptians, Gedaliah, Hoshaiah, Jeremiah, Johanan, Kareah, Nebuchadnezzar, Nebuchadrezzar, Nebuzaradan, Neriah, Pharaoh, Shaphan
Places
Babylon, Egypt, Heliopolis, Tahpanhes
Topics
Jeremiah, Saying, Tahpanhes, Tah'panhes
Dictionary of Bible Themes
Jeremiah 43:8-9

     7505   Jews, the

Jeremiah 43:8-13

     1431   prophecy, OT methods

Library
Jeremiah
The interest of the book of Jeremiah is unique. On the one hand, it is our most reliable and elaborate source for the long period of history which it covers; on the other, it presents us with prophecy in its most intensely human phase, manifesting itself through a strangely attractive personality that was subject to like doubts and passions with ourselves. At his call, in 626 B.C., he was young and inexperienced, i. 6, so that he cannot have been born earlier than 650. The political and religious
John Edgar McFadyen—Introduction to the Old Testament

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