Then all the commanders of the forces
This phrase refers to the military leaders who were left in Judah after the Babylonian conquest. These commanders were responsible for the remnants of the Jewish military forces. Historically, after the fall of Jerusalem in 586 BC, the Babylonians left a small group of people in the land, including some military leaders. This reflects the chaotic and leaderless state of Judah at the time, as the nation had been devastated by war and exile.

along with Johanan son of Kareah
Johanan was a prominent figure among the remnant in Judah. He is often seen as a leader who sought to protect the people from further harm, particularly from the threat of Ishmael, who had assassinated Gedaliah, the Babylonian-appointed governor. Johanan's actions are recorded in the preceding chapters, where he attempts to stabilize the situation in the land.

Jezaniah son of Hoshaiah
Jezaniah, also known as Azariah in some translations, was another leader among the remnant. His presence indicates a coalition of leaders seeking guidance. The mention of his lineage, "son of Hoshaiah," is typical of biblical texts, emphasizing family heritage and legitimacy.

and all the people from the least to the greatest
This phrase underscores the inclusivity of the group seeking guidance. It highlights the desperation and unity among the people, regardless of social status, in the face of national crisis. This reflects a common biblical theme where all people, regardless of rank, are involved in seeking divine direction.

approached
The act of approaching signifies a desire for counsel and direction. In the context of Jeremiah, this approach is towards the prophet, seeking God's guidance. This reflects a recurring biblical motif where leaders and people seek prophetic insight during times of uncertainty. The approach to a prophet for guidance is seen throughout the Old Testament, emphasizing the role of prophets as intermediaries between God and His people.

Jeremiah the prophet and said
Jeremiah, a major prophet in the Old Testament, served during the final years of Judah before the Babylonian exile. His role was to convey God's messages to the people, often warning them of impending judgment due to their disobedience. This phrase highlights the people's recognition of Jeremiah's prophetic authority and their need for divine guidance.

May our petition come before you
The people are making a formal request, acknowledging their dependence on divine intervention. This reflects a common biblical theme where individuals or groups seek God's favor or guidance through prayer, as seen in other scriptures like 1 Samuel 1:17 and Psalm 141:2.

pray to the LORD your God
The request for Jeremiah to pray indicates their belief in his close relationship with God. The phrase "the LORD your God" suggests a recognition of Jeremiah's personal connection to God, which they hope to leverage for their benefit. This reflects a cultural understanding of prophets as intermediaries between God and the people.

on behalf of this entire remnant
The term "remnant" refers to the small group of Israelites who survived the Babylonian conquest. This concept is significant throughout the Bible, symbolizing hope and the continuation of God's covenant with His people, as seen in Isaiah 10:20-22 and Romans 11:5.

For few of us remain of the many
This acknowledges the drastic reduction in their numbers due to war, exile, and other calamities. It underscores the severity of their situation and the fulfillment of prophetic warnings about the consequences of disobedience, as seen in Deuteronomy 28:62.

as you can see with your own eyes
This phrase appeals to the observable reality of their circumstances, emphasizing the urgency and desperation of their situation. It serves as a reminder of the tangible consequences of turning away from God, reinforcing the need for repentance and divine intervention.

Pray that the LORD your God
This phrase highlights the importance of seeking divine guidance through prayer. In the context of Jeremiah 42, the remnant of Judah, after the fall of Jerusalem, seeks Jeremiah's intercession to inquire of God. This reflects a common biblical theme where leaders and prophets intercede on behalf of the people (e.g., Moses in Exodus 32:11-14). The use of "the LORD your God" indicates a recognition of Jeremiah's close relationship with God, emphasizing the need for a mediator in times of uncertainty.

will tell us
The people are seeking a direct revelation from God, which underscores the belief in God's active communication with His people. This request for divine instruction is reminiscent of other instances in the Old Testament where God provides guidance, such as through the Urim and Thummim (Exodus 28:30) or prophetic visions. It reflects a dependence on God's wisdom rather than human understanding, aligning with Proverbs 3:5-6.

the way we should walk
This phrase metaphorically represents the path of life and conduct. In biblical terms, "walking" often symbolizes one's lifestyle and choices (Psalm 1:1, Micah 6:8). The remnant seeks to align their actions with God's will, acknowledging that only God can provide the right path. This is a recurring theme in Scripture, where God's law is described as a light and guide (Psalm 119:105).

and the thing we should do.”
Here, the focus is on specific actions and decisions. The people of Judah are in a precarious situation, facing the threat of Babylonian retribution and considering fleeing to Egypt. They seek God's direction for immediate and practical decisions. This reflects a broader biblical principle of seeking God's will in both major and minor life decisions (James 1:5). The request underscores the belief that God is concerned with the details of His people's lives and is willing to provide guidance.

"I have heard you," replied Jeremiah the prophet.
Jeremiah, known as the "weeping prophet," is responding to the remnant of Judah who sought his counsel. This phrase indicates his attentiveness and willingness to engage with the people's request. Jeremiah's role as a prophet was to be a mediator between God and the people, often delivering messages that were difficult to hear. His response here shows his commitment to his prophetic duty despite the challenges he faced, including persecution and imprisonment.

"I will surely pray to the LORD your God as you request,"
Jeremiah's promise to pray underscores the importance of intercessory prayer in the life of a prophet. The phrase "the LORD your God" highlights the covenant relationship between God and Israel, reminding the people of their identity and obligations. Jeremiah's assurance to pray reflects his faithfulness and dedication to seeking God's will, even when the people themselves were often unfaithful.

"and I will tell you everything that the LORD answers."
This commitment to relay God's message in its entirety is crucial. Prophets were expected to convey God's words without alteration, emphasizing the integrity and reliability of true prophecy. Jeremiah's promise to communicate "everything" underscores the transparency and accountability required of a prophet. This mirrors the biblical principle that God's word is complete and sufficient, as seen in Deuteronomy 4:2 and Revelation 22:18-19.

"I will not withhold a word from you."
Jeremiah's assurance that he will not withhold any part of God's message highlights the prophet's role as a faithful messenger. This phrase reflects the seriousness with which prophets approached their task, as withholding God's word would be a grave sin. It also points to the nature of divine revelation, which is meant to be fully disclosed for the guidance and correction of God's people. This echoes the New Testament teaching in Acts 20:27, where Paul declares he did not shrink from declaring the whole counsel of God.

Then they said to Jeremiah
This phrase indicates a dialogue between the people and the prophet Jeremiah. Jeremiah was a major prophet in the Old Testament, known for his messages of warning and hope to the people of Judah. The context here is after the fall of Jerusalem, when the remnant of Judah is seeking guidance. Jeremiah, as a prophet, served as a mediator between God and the people, often delivering messages that were difficult to hear.

“May the LORD be a true and faithful witness against us
Invoking the LORD as a witness underscores the seriousness of their commitment. In ancient Israel, oaths and covenants were often made before God, who was seen as the ultimate judge and witness. This reflects the cultural and religious practice of making solemn promises with divine accountability. The terms "true and faithful" emphasize God's nature as reliable and just, aligning with passages like Deuteronomy 32:4, which describes God as a God of truth.

if we do not act upon every word
This phrase highlights the importance of obedience to God's commands. In the biblical narrative, obedience is a central theme, as seen in Deuteronomy 28, where blessings and curses are contingent upon Israel's adherence to God's law. The commitment to act upon "every word" signifies total submission to divine instruction, a recurring expectation in the covenant relationship between God and His people.

that the LORD your God sends you to tell us.
Here, the people acknowledge Jeremiah's role as God's messenger. The phrase "the LORD your God" indicates a recognition of the personal relationship between Jeremiah and God, as well as the authority of the message. This reflects the prophetic tradition where prophets like Moses (Exodus 3:10) and Isaiah (Isaiah 6:8) were sent by God to deliver His words. The people's request for guidance through Jeremiah shows their dependence on divine direction during a time of crisis.

Whether it is pleasant or unpleasant
This phrase reflects a commitment to obedience regardless of circumstances. It echoes the biblical principle of submitting to God's will, as seen in Deuteronomy 6:5, where love for God is commanded with all one's heart, soul, and strength. The willingness to accept both favorable and unfavorable outcomes is a testament to faith and trust in God's sovereignty, similar to Job's declaration in Job 2:10, "Shall we accept good from God, and not trouble?"

we will obey the voice of the LORD our God
Obedience to God's voice is a central theme throughout Scripture, emphasizing the importance of heeding divine instruction. In the context of Jeremiah, the people are seeking guidance during a time of crisis following the Babylonian conquest. This mirrors the call to obedience found in 1 Samuel 15:22, where Samuel states that obedience is better than sacrifice. The phrase underscores the covenant relationship between God and His people, where obedience is a response to God's faithfulness.

to whom we are sending you
This refers to the delegation of Jeremiah as a prophet to seek God's guidance. Prophets in the Old Testament served as intermediaries between God and the people, delivering messages and instructions. Jeremiah's role is crucial, as he is seen as a trustworthy conduit for God's will. This reflects the broader biblical theme of God using chosen individuals to communicate His purposes, as seen with Moses in Exodus 3:10.

so that it may go well with us
The desire for well-being is a common biblical motif, often linked to obedience and adherence to God's commandments. Deuteronomy 5:33 promises that walking in God's ways will lead to prosperity and longevity. This phrase highlights the belief that aligning with God's will results in blessings and protection, a recurring promise throughout the Old Testament.

when we obey the voice of the LORD our God!
Reiterating the commitment to obedience, this phrase emphasizes the conditional nature of God's blessings based on the people's response. The repetition underscores the seriousness of their pledge and the understanding that their future well-being is contingent upon their faithfulness. This is consistent with the covenantal framework found in passages like Leviticus 26 and Deuteronomy 28, where blessings and curses are outlined based on obedience or disobedience to God's commands.

After ten days
The ten-day period signifies a time of waiting and testing for the people seeking God's guidance. Biblically, the number ten often represents completeness or a period of testing, as seen in the Ten Commandments or the ten plagues of Egypt. This waiting period may have been a test of the people's patience and faith, reflecting their willingness to trust in God's timing rather than their own.

the word of the LORD
This phrase emphasizes the divine origin of the message Jeremiah is about to deliver. In the Old Testament, "the word of the LORD" is a common expression indicating a direct communication from God, often through His prophets. It underscores the authority and reliability of the message, distinguishing it from human opinion or advice. The word of the LORD is living and active, as seen in Hebrews 4:12, and is central to the prophetic ministry.

came to Jeremiah
Jeremiah, known as the "weeping prophet," was chosen by God to deliver His messages to the people of Judah. His role as a prophet was to be a mouthpiece for God, often delivering messages of warning, judgment, and hope. The phrase indicates that Jeremiah was receptive to God's communication, highlighting his faithfulness and obedience. Jeremiah's prophetic ministry is marked by his deep personal struggles and his unwavering commitment to God's call, as seen throughout the book of Jeremiah.

and he summoned Johanan son of Kareah
Jeremiah, the prophet, is the one doing the summoning. Johanan son of Kareah was a military leader during the time of the Babylonian conquest of Judah. His role is significant as he represents the remnant of Judah that had not been exiled. Johanan had previously opposed Ishmael, who had assassinated Gedaliah, the Babylonian-appointed governor. This context highlights the political instability and the struggle for leadership among the remaining Jews in Judah.

all the commanders of the forces who were with him
The commanders of the forces refer to the military leaders who were aligned with Johanan. These men were responsible for the safety and decisions of the remnant community. Their presence indicates the importance of the message Jeremiah was about to deliver, as it concerned the future of the entire group. This gathering underscores the gravity of seeking divine guidance in times of national crisis.

and all the people from the least to the greatest
This phrase emphasizes the inclusivity of the assembly, indicating that Jeremiah's message was intended for everyone, regardless of social status. It reflects the biblical principle that God's word is accessible to all people. The mention of "from the least to the greatest" echoes other scriptural instances where God addresses entire communities, such as in Joel 2:16, where a similar call to gather is made. This inclusivity also foreshadows the New Testament teaching that in Christ, there is no distinction between Jew and Greek, slave and free, male and female (Galatians 3:28).

Jeremiah told them
Jeremiah, a major prophet in the Old Testament, is known for his role as a messenger of God during a tumultuous period in Judah's history. His prophetic ministry spanned the reigns of several kings, and he often faced opposition and persecution. In this context, Jeremiah is acting as an intermediary between the people and God, highlighting his role as a faithful servant despite the challenges he faced.

“Thus says the LORD,
This phrase is a common introduction to prophetic messages, indicating that the words following are not Jeremiah's own but are directly from God. It underscores the authority and divine origin of the message. The use of "LORD" in all capitals signifies the translation of the Tetragrammaton, YHWH, the personal name of God revealed to Moses, emphasizing His covenant relationship with Israel.

the God of Israel,
This title reaffirms God's special relationship with Israel, His chosen people. It serves as a reminder of the covenant established with the patriarchs—Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob—and the promises made to them. Despite Israel's repeated disobedience, God remains their God, faithful to His covenant.

to whom you sent me
The people had approached Jeremiah to seek God's guidance, indicating a recognition of his prophetic authority and their need for divine direction. This act of sending Jeremiah to God reflects a moment of humility and dependence on divine wisdom, though it is often accompanied by a lack of genuine commitment to follow through on God's instructions.

to present your petition:
The petition likely involved seeking guidance or deliverance from the dire circumstances facing the remnant in Judah after the Babylonian conquest. This reflects a common biblical theme where people turn to God in times of crisis. However, the sincerity of their request is questionable, as subsequent events reveal their reluctance to obey God's counsel. This phrase also highlights the role of prayer and intercession in the believer's life, where petitions are brought before God through His appointed servants.

If you will indeed stay in this land
This phrase is a direct command from God to the remnant of Judah through the prophet Jeremiah. The context is post-Babylonian exile, where the people are contemplating fleeing to Egypt for safety. Staying in the land signifies trust in God's promise and His sovereignty. Historically, the land of Judah was the covenant land given to the Israelites, and remaining there was an act of faithfulness to God's covenant.

then I will build you up and not tear you down;
This promise echoes the language of restoration and hope. The imagery of building up suggests stability, growth, and prosperity. It contrasts with the earlier prophecies of destruction due to disobedience (Jeremiah 1:10). The assurance of not being torn down reflects God's mercy and willingness to restore His people if they obey.

I will plant you and not uproot you,
The metaphor of planting signifies establishing roots and permanence. It is reminiscent of the promises in Jeremiah 24:6, where God speaks of watching over the people for their good. The idea of not being uprooted contrasts with the exile, where the people were forcibly removed from their land. This promise indicates a reversal of their previous judgment.

for I will relent of the disaster I have brought upon you.
This phrase highlights God's compassion and readiness to forgive. The disaster refers to the Babylonian conquest and exile, seen as divine judgment for the people's sins. The concept of God relenting is seen in other scriptures, such as Jonah 3:10, where God spares Nineveh. It underscores the conditional nature of prophecy, where repentance can lead to divine mercy.

Do not be afraid of the king of Babylon, whom you now fear;
This phrase addresses the fear that the remnant of Judah had towards Nebuchadnezzar, the king of Babylon. Historically, Babylon was a dominant empire, and its king was known for his military prowess and harsh treatment of conquered peoples. The Israelites had witnessed the destruction of Jerusalem and the temple, leading to their fear. This command not to fear echoes God's frequent assurances to His people throughout Scripture, such as in Isaiah 41:10, where God tells Israel not to fear because He is with them. The fear of earthly powers is contrasted with the fear of the Lord, which is the beginning of wisdom (Proverbs 9:10).

do not be afraid of him, declares the LORD,
The repetition of the command not to fear emphasizes its importance. The declaration "declares the LORD" underscores the authority and reliability of the message. In the biblical context, when God speaks, His words are trustworthy and powerful. This assurance is meant to shift the focus from human threats to divine sovereignty. The phrase also reflects the covenant relationship between God and His people, where God promises protection and guidance.

for I am with you to save you and deliver you from him.
This promise of God's presence is a recurring theme in the Bible, providing comfort and assurance to His people. The phrase "I am with you" is reminiscent of God's promise to Moses in Exodus 3:12 and to Joshua in Joshua 1:9, where God's presence is linked to His people's success and security. The terms "save" and "deliver" indicate not just physical rescue but also spiritual salvation, pointing to God's ultimate deliverance through Jesus Christ. In the New Testament, Jesus is often seen as the fulfillment of God's promises of salvation and deliverance, as seen in Matthew 1:21, where He is named Jesus because He will save His people from their sins. This phrase reassures the Israelites that despite their current fears, God's power and presence are sufficient to protect and redeem them.

And I will show you compassion
This phrase reflects God's promise of mercy to the remnant of Judah. In the context of Jeremiah 42, the people sought guidance from God through the prophet Jeremiah after the Babylonian conquest. Compassion here signifies God's willingness to forgive and restore despite the people's previous disobedience. This echoes God's character as described in Exodus 34:6, where He is "compassionate and gracious." It also aligns with the theme of divine mercy found throughout the Old Testament, such as in Lamentations 3:22-23.

and he will have compassion on you
The "he" refers to the king of Babylon, Nebuchadnezzar, who would be moved by God to show mercy to the people. This demonstrates God's sovereignty over nations and rulers, as seen in Proverbs 21:1, where the king's heart is in the hand of the Lord. Historically, this reflects the practice of ancient Near Eastern kings who often allowed displaced peoples to return to their homelands, as seen in the Cyrus Cylinder, which records a similar decree by Cyrus the Great.

and restore you to your own land.
The promise of restoration to their land is significant, as the land was central to the identity and covenant relationship between God and Israel. This restoration is a recurring theme in prophetic literature, symbolizing not just physical return but spiritual renewal. It prefigures the ultimate restoration through Christ, who restores believers to a right relationship with God. The return to the land also fulfills earlier prophecies, such as those in Deuteronomy 30:3-5, where God promises to bring His people back from captivity.

But if you say,
This phrase introduces a conditional statement, indicating a choice or decision that the people of Judah are contemplating. It reflects the human tendency to question or resist divine guidance, a recurring theme throughout the Bible. This choice is set against the backdrop of the Babylonian conquest, where the remnant of Judah is considering their options for survival.

‘We will not stay in this land,’
The land referred to is Judah, which God had given to the Israelites as part of His covenant with Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. The reluctance to stay in the land signifies a lack of trust in God's promises and protection. Historically, the people feared the Babylonians and sought refuge in Egypt, a place of former bondage, which symbolizes a return to old dependencies rather than trusting in God's provision.

and you thus disobey the voice of the LORD your God,
Disobedience to God's voice is a central theme in the prophetic books. The voice of the LORD often came through prophets like Jeremiah, who warned the people of the consequences of their actions. This disobedience is not just a rejection of a command but a rejection of the relationship and covenant with God. It echoes the disobedience of Israel in the wilderness (Numbers 14:1-4) and foreshadows the ultimate need for a Savior who perfectly obeys God's will, fulfilled in Jesus Christ.

and if you say,
This phrase introduces a hypothetical scenario, reflecting the people's potential response to God's guidance. It highlights the human tendency to rely on personal judgment rather than divine direction. This is a common theme throughout the Bible, where God's people often struggle with obedience and trust.

‘No, but we will go to the land of Egypt
Egypt is historically significant as a place of refuge and bondage for the Israelites. It represents a return to a place of former oppression, symbolizing a lack of faith in God's promise of protection and provision. Biblically, Egypt often symbolizes reliance on worldly powers rather than God (Isaiah 31:1).

and live there,
The desire to live in Egypt suggests a longing for stability and security, which the people believe they can find outside of God's plan. This reflects a common biblical theme where God's people are tempted to seek comfort in familiar but spiritually detrimental places.

where we will not see war
The Israelites' fear of war is understandable given their recent experiences. However, this desire for peace through human means rather than divine protection shows a lack of trust in God's sovereignty. Throughout scripture, God promises peace to those who follow Him (Isaiah 26:3).

or hear the sound of the ram’s horn
The ram's horn, or shofar, was used in Israel for various purposes, including calling to battle and religious ceremonies. The avoidance of its sound indicates a desire to escape the responsibilities and challenges associated with being God's chosen people.

or hunger for bread,’
Hunger for bread signifies a fear of physical need and deprivation. In the Bible, God repeatedly demonstrates His ability to provide for His people, such as through manna in the wilderness (Exodus 16). This phrase underscores the people's lack of faith in God's provision.

then hear the word of the LORD, O remnant of Judah!
The phrase "hear the word of the LORD" emphasizes the importance of listening to God's message, a recurring theme throughout the Bible. The "remnant of Judah" refers to the small group of Israelites who survived the Babylonian conquest and exile. This remnant is significant in biblical prophecy, as God often works through a faithful few to fulfill His purposes. The call to hear God's word is a reminder of the covenant relationship between God and His people, where obedience leads to blessing and disobedience to judgment.

This is what the LORD of Hosts, the God of Israel, says:
The title "LORD of Hosts" underscores God's sovereignty and power over all heavenly and earthly armies. It reassures the remnant of Judah that despite their dire circumstances, God remains in control. "The God of Israel" reaffirms the special relationship between God and the nation of Israel, highlighting His faithfulness to His covenant promises. This introduction to God's message serves to remind the people of His authority and their identity as His chosen people.

‘If you are determined to go to Egypt and reside there,
The mention of Egypt is significant both historically and theologically. Egypt was often seen as a place of refuge and temptation for Israel, representing reliance on human strength rather than trust in God. Historically, Egypt was a powerful nation, and fleeing there might have seemed like a logical choice for safety. However, this decision reflects a lack of faith in God's protection and provision. Theologically, Egypt symbolizes bondage and a return to the place from which God had delivered Israel during the Exodus. This phrase warns the remnant against repeating past mistakes and turning away from God's guidance.

then the sword you fear will overtake you there
This phrase addresses the fear of the Israelites who sought refuge in Egypt after the Babylonian conquest. Historically, the sword represents warfare and violence, a common threat during this tumultuous period. The Israelites feared the Babylonian army, yet God warns that the very danger they seek to escape will find them in Egypt. This reflects a recurring biblical theme: disobedience to God's commands leads to the consequences one fears. The Israelites were instructed to remain in Judah, but their lack of trust in God's protection led them to seek safety elsewhere, illustrating a lack of faith similar to that seen in other biblical narratives, such as the Israelites' fear in the wilderness (Numbers 14:3).

and the famine you dread will follow on your heels into Egypt
Famine was a significant concern in the ancient Near East, often seen as a divine judgment. The Israelites' dread of famine echoes the historical context of food scarcity during sieges and wars. Egypt, known for its fertile Nile Delta, was typically a place of refuge during famines, as seen in the story of Joseph (Genesis 41:54-57). However, God's warning here indicates that their reliance on Egypt for sustenance, rather than on Him, would not protect them from famine. This serves as a reminder of the futility of seeking security outside of God's provision and parallels the spiritual famine that results from turning away from God.

and you will die there
The finality of this phrase underscores the seriousness of the warning. Death in a foreign land was considered a tragic fate, as it meant being cut off from one's heritage and burial traditions. This outcome serves as a stark reminder of the consequences of disobedience and lack of faith. Theologically, it highlights the principle that true safety and life are found in obedience to God, not in human plans or alliances. This echoes the broader biblical narrative where life and blessing are tied to covenant faithfulness, as seen in Deuteronomy 30:19-20, where choosing life is equated with loving and obeying God.

So all who resolve to go to Egypt to reside there
This phrase addresses the remnant of Judah after the Babylonian conquest. Historically, Egypt was often seen as a place of refuge due to its relative stability and resources. However, God had warned the Israelites against seeking alliances with Egypt (Isaiah 30:1-3). The decision to go to Egypt reflects a lack of trust in God's promises and a return to old patterns of relying on foreign powers instead of God (Deuteronomy 17:16).

will die by sword and famine and plague.
These three forms of judgment—sword, famine, and plague—are frequently mentioned in the Old Testament as instruments of divine punishment (Ezekiel 5:12). They signify total destruction and are reminiscent of the curses outlined in Deuteronomy 28 for disobedience. This triad of calamities underscores the severity of God's judgment against those who disobey His command to remain in the land He promised to them.

Not one of them will survive or escape
This phrase emphasizes the certainty and totality of the judgment. It reflects the prophetic nature of Jeremiah's message, where God's word is absolute and unchangeable. The idea of no escape is a recurring theme in prophetic literature, highlighting the inescapability of divine judgment (Amos 9:1-4).

the disaster I will bring upon them.
The disaster is a direct consequence of disobedience to God's command. It serves as a fulfillment of prophetic warnings and a demonstration of God's sovereignty and justice. This phrase also connects to the broader biblical theme of God's judgment against sin and rebellion, as seen in the destruction of Sodom and Gomorrah (Genesis 19) and the Babylonian exile itself. The disaster is not merely a natural consequence but a divinely orchestrated event, reinforcing the seriousness of turning away from God's guidance.

For this is what the LORD of Hosts, the God of Israel, says:
This phrase emphasizes the authority and sovereignty of God. The title "LORD of Hosts" signifies God's command over the armies of heaven, underscoring His power and ability to execute judgment. The phrase "God of Israel" reaffirms His covenant relationship with the people of Israel, reminding them of their unique status and responsibilities.

Just as My anger and wrath were poured out on the residents of Jerusalem:
This refers to the recent destruction of Jerusalem by the Babylonians in 586 BC, a historical event that fulfilled earlier prophecies due to the people's persistent disobedience and idolatry. The imagery of God's anger being "poured out" suggests a complete and overwhelming judgment, akin to a consuming fire or flood.

so will My wrath be poured out on you if you go to Egypt:
The warning against going to Egypt is significant, as Egypt often symbolizes reliance on worldly powers instead of trusting in God. Historically, Egypt was a place of refuge but also a place of bondage, as seen in the Exodus narrative. This phrase warns of repeating past mistakes by seeking security outside of God's will.

You will become an object of cursing and horror, of vilification and disgrace:
This phrase indicates the severe consequences of disobedience. Being an "object of cursing" suggests that others will invoke their fate as a warning. The terms "horror," "vilification," and "disgrace" highlight the shame and fear that will accompany their downfall, serving as a public testament to the dangers of defying God.

and you will never see this place again:
This final phrase underscores the permanence of their decision's consequences. "This place" refers to the land of Judah, which holds significant covenantal promises. The warning implies a loss of inheritance and identity, echoing the exile's theme where disobedience leads to separation from God's promises and blessings.

The LORD has told you
This phrase emphasizes the direct communication from God to the people of Judah. In the context of Jeremiah, God often spoke through His prophets to guide and instruct His people. This underscores the authority and divine origin of the message. The phrase reflects the covenant relationship between God and Israel, where God actively communicates His will.

O remnant of Judah
The term "remnant" refers to the small group of Israelites who survived the Babylonian conquest and exile. This remnant is significant in biblical prophecy, often representing hope and the continuation of God's promises. Historically, the remnant faced uncertainty and fear, seeking guidance for survival. Theologically, the remnant is a recurring theme, symbolizing those who remain faithful to God amidst widespread unfaithfulness.

‘Do not go to Egypt.’
Egypt, in biblical history, is often seen as a place of refuge but also a symbol of reliance on human strength rather than God. The Israelites had a history of turning to Egypt in times of trouble, as seen in Isaiah 30:1-2. This command is a test of faith, urging the remnant to trust in God's provision rather than seeking security in a foreign land. It also reflects the historical context where Egypt was a political power, tempting Judah to form alliances.

Know for sure
This phrase serves as an emphatic assurance of the certainty and seriousness of God's warning. It highlights the importance of heeding divine instruction and the consequences of disobedience. The certainty of God's word is a recurring theme in Scripture, emphasizing His unchanging nature and the reliability of His promises.

that I have warned you today!
The warning is immediate and urgent, indicating the critical nature of the decision facing the remnant. It reflects God's mercy in providing guidance and the responsibility of the people to respond appropriately. This warning is consistent with the prophetic tradition, where prophets often served as watchmen, alerting the people to impending danger. The urgency of "today" underscores the need for prompt obedience to God's commands.

For you have deceived yourselves
This phrase highlights the self-deception of the people of Judah. In the broader context of Jeremiah 42, the remnant of Judah seeks guidance from God through the prophet Jeremiah. However, their hearts are not truly aligned with God's will. This self-deception is a common theme in Scripture, where individuals or groups claim to seek God's guidance but are unwilling to follow it when it contradicts their desires (James 1:22-24).

by sending me to the LORD your God
Jeremiah is acting as an intermediary between the people and God, a common role for prophets in the Old Testament. This reflects the people's recognition of Jeremiah's prophetic authority, yet their actions reveal a lack of genuine faith. The phrase "the LORD your God" indicates a personal relationship that the people are supposed to have with God, yet their actions suggest otherwise.

saying, ‘Pray to the LORD our God on our behalf
The people request intercession, acknowledging their need for divine guidance. This reflects a pattern seen throughout the Old Testament, where leaders and prophets intercede for the people (Exodus 32:11-14). However, their request is insincere, as their subsequent actions reveal a predetermined decision to go to Egypt, contrary to God's will.

and as for all that the LORD our God says, tell it to us
This phrase indicates a willingness to hear God's word, yet it is superficial. The people express a desire to know God's will, but their hearts are not truly open to it. This mirrors the parable of the sower in the New Testament, where some hear the word but do not let it take root (Matthew 13:20-21).

and we will do it
The people make a commitment to obey God's instructions, yet their actions later prove otherwise. This reflects a recurring biblical theme of lip service without true obedience (Isaiah 29:13). It serves as a warning against making vows to God without the intention of fulfilling them, emphasizing the importance of genuine faith and obedience.

For I have told you today
This phrase indicates a specific moment of communication, emphasizing the immediacy and urgency of the message. Jeremiah, as a prophet, often delivered messages that required immediate attention and action. The context here is post-exilic, where the remnant of Judah is seeking guidance after the fall of Jerusalem. Jeremiah's role as a prophet was to convey God's will directly to the people, highlighting the importance of listening to prophetic voices.

but you have not obeyed
Disobedience is a recurring theme in the history of Israel. The Israelites frequently struggled with following God's commands, leading to consequences such as exile. This phrase underscores the people's persistent rebellion and the human tendency to resist divine instruction. It reflects the broader biblical narrative of humanity's struggle with sin and the need for repentance.

the voice of the LORD your God
The "voice of the LORD" signifies divine authority and the personal relationship between God and His people. In the Old Testament, God's voice is often associated with His commandments and guidance. This phrase reminds the audience of the covenant relationship established at Sinai, where God spoke directly to the Israelites, and they agreed to follow His laws.

in all He has sent me to tell you
Jeremiah's role as a messenger is emphasized here. Prophets were chosen by God to deliver His messages, often facing opposition and persecution. This phrase highlights the completeness and sufficiency of God's revelation through His prophets. It also points to the responsibility of the people to heed the entire message, not just parts of it. This can be connected to the New Testament, where Jesus is seen as the ultimate prophet and messenger of God's will, fulfilling and expanding upon the messages of the Old Testament prophets.

Now therefore, know for sure
This phrase serves as a solemn warning and a call to certainty. It emphasizes the inevitability of the consequences that are about to be described. In the biblical context, it reflects the prophetic authority of Jeremiah, who is delivering God's message. The certainty of God's word is a recurring theme in Scripture, as seen in Isaiah 55:11, where God's word is said to accomplish what He desires.

that by sword and famine and plague
These three calamities are often mentioned together in the Bible as instruments of divine judgment (e.g., Ezekiel 5:12, Revelation 6:8). The sword represents warfare and violence, famine indicates a lack of food and sustenance, and plague suggests disease and pestilence. Historically, these were common threats in the ancient Near East, often resulting from or leading to each other. They symbolize comprehensive destruction and are used to convey the severity of God's judgment.

you will die
This phrase underscores the finality and seriousness of the judgment. Death is the ultimate consequence of sin and rebellion against God, as seen in Romans 6:23. The inevitability of death in this context serves as a stark reminder of the consequences of disobedience to God's commands.

in the place where you desire to go to reside
This refers to the people's intention to flee to Egypt for safety, against God's explicit command to remain in Judah (Jeremiah 42:19). Egypt, historically a place of refuge and a symbol of worldly security, is ironically portrayed as a place of death for those who disobey God. This reflects a broader biblical theme where reliance on human strength and foreign alliances, rather than on God, leads to downfall (Isaiah 31:1). Egypt's historical role as both a place of refuge and a place of bondage (as in the Exodus) adds depth to this warning, highlighting the futility of seeking security outside of God's will.