Biblical Reference:
The account of Jeremiah being beaten and put in the stocks is found in the Book of Jeremiah, specifically in Jeremiah 20:1-6.

Historical Context:
Jeremiah, often referred to as the "weeping prophet," served as a prophet in Judah during the late 7th and early 6th centuries BC. His ministry occurred during a tumultuous period in Judah's history, marked by political instability, idolatry, and impending judgment from God due to the nation's persistent disobedience. Jeremiah's prophetic messages were largely centered on calling the people of Judah to repentance and warning them of the coming Babylonian exile.

Narrative Summary:
In Jeremiah 20:1-6, the prophet Jeremiah faces persecution for his bold proclamation of God's message. Pashhur, the son of Immer, a priest and chief officer in the house of the LORD, hears Jeremiah prophesying about the impending disaster that would befall Jerusalem due to the people's sins. Angered by Jeremiah's message, Pashhur has Jeremiah beaten and placed in the stocks at the Upper Gate of Benjamin, a public place where he would be exposed to ridicule and shame.

The Berean Standard Bible records this event as follows:
"When Pashhur the priest, the son of Immer and chief officer in the house of the LORD, heard Jeremiah prophesying these things, he had Jeremiah the prophet beaten and put in the stocks at the Upper Gate of Benjamin at the house of the LORD." (Jeremiah 20:1-2)

The next day, Pashhur releases Jeremiah from the stocks. However, Jeremiah, undeterred by his suffering, delivers a prophetic word from the LORD to Pashhur. He tells Pashhur that the LORD has not called him Pashhur, but "Magor-missabib," meaning "terror on every side." Jeremiah prophesies that Pashhur and all his household will be taken captive to Babylon, where he will die and be buried.

Theological Significance:
This episode in Jeremiah's life highlights the cost of faithfully delivering God's message in the face of opposition and persecution. Jeremiah's experience serves as a testament to the challenges faced by those who stand for truth in a world resistant to divine correction. Despite the physical and emotional suffering, Jeremiah remains steadfast in his mission, exemplifying the courage and resilience required of God's messengers.

The incident also underscores the theme of divine justice. Pashhur's actions against Jeremiah do not go unnoticed by God, and the prophecy against him serves as a reminder that those who oppose God's will and mistreat His servants will ultimately face judgment.

Application for Believers:
Jeremiah's ordeal encourages believers to remain faithful to God's calling, even when faced with adversity. It serves as a reminder that obedience to God may lead to suffering, but His presence and purpose prevail. Believers are called to trust in God's justice and remain steadfast in their witness, knowing that their labor in the Lord is not in vain.