Iri'jah is a biblical figure mentioned in the Old Testament, specifically in the Book of Jeremiah. He is identified as a captain of the guard during the tumultuous period leading up to the fall of Jerusalem to the Babylonians. His role is significant in the narrative concerning the prophet Jeremiah, as he is directly involved in an incident that highlights the tension between the prophetic message and the political authorities of the time.

Biblical Reference:

The primary reference to Iri'jah is found in Jeremiah 37:13-14. The Berean Standard Bible recounts the encounter as follows:

"While he was at the Benjamin Gate, a captain of the guard whose name was Iri'jah son of Shelemiah, the son of Hananiah, was there. He arrested Jeremiah the prophet, saying, 'You are deserting to the Chaldeans!' 'That is a lie,' Jeremiah replied. 'I am not deserting to the Chaldeans!' But Iri'jah would not listen to him; instead, he arrested Jeremiah and brought him to the officials."

Context and Significance:

Iri'jah's actions occur during the reign of King Zedekiah, a time when Jerusalem was under siege by Nebuchadnezzar's Babylonian forces. The political climate was fraught with fear and suspicion, as many in Judah were contemplating surrender to the Babylonians. Jeremiah, known for his prophecies of impending judgment and calls for repentance, was often seen as a controversial figure. His messages were perceived by some as demoralizing and even treasonous, as they included calls to submit to Babylon as a means of survival.

Iri'jah's accusation against Jeremiah reflects the broader mistrust and paranoia among the leaders of Judah. By accusing Jeremiah of defecting to the Chaldeans (Babylonians), Iri'jah embodies the resistance to Jeremiah's prophetic counsel. This incident underscores the conflict between the prophetic voice and the political powers, a recurring theme in the prophetic books of the Old Testament.

Genealogical Note:

Iri'jah is identified as the son of Shelemiah and the grandson of Hananiah. This genealogical detail, while brief, situates Iri'jah within a familial context, possibly indicating a lineage of some standing or recognition within the society of Judah. The mention of his ancestry may also serve to distinguish him from others with similar names, as genealogical references often do in biblical texts.

Theological Implications:

From a theological perspective, the encounter between Iri'jah and Jeremiah highlights the challenges faced by prophets in delivering God's message amidst political and social turmoil. It serves as a reminder of the cost of prophetic ministry and the resistance that truth often encounters. Iri'jah's actions, though perhaps motivated by a desire to protect his city, ultimately contribute to the narrative of Jeremiah's suffering and the broader theme of rejection faced by God's messengers.

In summary, Iri'jah's brief but pivotal role in the Book of Jeremiah illustrates the complex interplay between faithfulness to God's word and the political realities of the time. His interaction with Jeremiah is a testament to the enduring struggle between divine truth and human authority.Iri'jah (2 Occurrences)

Jeremiah 37:13
And it cometh to pass, he is at the gate of Benjamin, and there 'is' a master of the ward -- and his name is Irijah son of Shelemiah, son of Hananiah -- and he catcheth Jeremiah the prophet, saying, 'Unto the Chaldeans thou art falling.'
(See RSV)

Jeremiah 37:14
And Jeremiah saith, 'Falsehood -- I am not falling unto the Chaldeans;' and he hath not hearkened unto him, and Irijah layeth hold on Jeremiah, and bringeth him in unto the heads,
(See RSV)

Iri'jah (2 Occurrences)
Iri'jah. Irijah, Iri'jah. Irksome . Multi-Version Concordance Iri'jah
(2 Occurrences). Jeremiah 37:13 And it cometh to pass, he ...
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Irksome (2 Occurrences)

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Irijah (2 Occurrences)

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