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Book of Jeremiah - Chapter 27 - Verse 12

27:12
I spake also to Zedekiah king of Judah according to all these words, saying, Bring your necks under the yoke of the king of Babylon, and serve him and his people, and live.

Meaning

During the time of the prophet Jeremiah, the nation of Judah was facing a crisis as the Babylonian Empire threatened to attack and conquer them. In this specific verse, God is speaking through Jeremiah to King Zedekiah of Judah, instructing him to submit to the King of Babylon and serve him as a way to avoid destruction and preserve the lives of his people. The imagery of bringing their necks under the yoke of the king of Babylon represents the idea of submitting to the authority and rule of another nation to ensure their survival. By following this command, the people of Judah would be able to live and prosper under the Babylonian rule, rather than facing the devastation and death that would come from resisting their power.

Theological Overview

In this verse from the book of Jeremiah, the prophet is delivering a message to Zedekiah, the king of Judah, instructing him to submit to the rule of the king of Babylon in order to spare the lives of himself and his people. The imagery of bringing their necks under the yoke of the Babylonian king symbolizes the act of submitting to his authority and serving him. This message emphasizes the importance of obedience to earthly rulers, even if they are seen as enemies or oppressors. The theological interpretation of this verse highlights the themes of humility, obedience, and trust in God's plan, even in difficult circumstances. By submitting to the king of Babylon, Zedekiah and his people are urged to trust in God's sovereignty and ultimate control over their lives, even in the midst of political turmoil and turmoil.

American Standard Version

And I spake to Zedekiah king of Judah according to all these words, saying, Bring your necks under the yoke of the king of Babylon, and serve him and his people, and live.
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