Jeremiah 21:9

Arabic KEH Ketab El Hayat (كتاب الحياة)

فَمَنْ يَمْكُثُ فِي هَذِهِ الْمَدِينَةِ يَمُوتُ بِالسَّيْفِ وَالْجُوعِ وَالْوَبَاءِ، وَمَنْ يَلْجَأُ إِلَى الْكِلْدَانِيِّينَ الَّذِينَ يُحَاصِرُونَكُمْ وَيَسْتَسْلِمُ لَهُمْ يَحْيَا وَيَغْنَمُ نَفْسَهُ.

What Does This Mean?

This verse from Jeremiah says that if someone stays in the city, they will die from war, hunger, or sickness. But if they leave the city and surrender to the Chaldeans who are attacking, they will live and be saved. Jeremiah is giving a warning and a choice to the people of Jerusalem.

Explained for Children

Imagine you are in a big house with a scary monster outside. If you stay in the house, the monster will hurt you. But if you come out of the house and say you're sorry, the monster will be nice to you and keep you safe. Jeremiah is telling the people to come out of their city so they can be safe from the bad guys outside.

Historical Background

Jeremiah wrote this verse around 587 BCE during the Babylonian siege of Jerusalem. The Babylonians, also known as Chaldeans, were attacking Jerusalem, and Jeremiah was speaking on behalf of God, warning the people of the dire consequences of staying in the city.

Living It Out Today

In a modern scenario, imagine you are in a dangerous neighborhood with escalating violence. You have the choice to stay and face the risks or move to a safer area. Jeremiah’s message suggests choosing the path that ensures your survival and well-being over stubbornly staying in a harmful situation.

Topics

• survival
• choices
• advice
• danger
• hope
• deliverance

Related Verses

• Ezekiel 21:30
• Deuteronomy 30:19
• Joshua 24:15
• Matthew 10:28
• Luke 14:33

Frequently Asked Questions

What does 'he that abideth' mean?

'He that abideth' refers to someone who stays or remains in a place, in this case, the city of Jerusalem.

Why would surrendering save someone's life?

In the context of a siege, surrendering to the attackers can mean being taken prisoner rather than dying in the city from violence, hunger, or disease.

How does Jeremiah's message relate to modern times?

Jeremiah's message can be related to modern times by considering it an encouragement to make choices that ensure one's survival and well-being over staying in dangerous situations.

What is the significance of the Chaldeans?

The Chaldeans were the Babylonian invaders of Jerusalem. In this verse, they represent the external threat against the city, against which Jeremiah warns the people.