Nevertheless hear thou now this word that I speak in thine ears, and in the ears of all the people;
JEREMIAH 28:7KJVWhat does Jeremiah 28:7 mean?
Jeremiah 28:7 records the prophet Jeremiah telling his audience to listen carefully to the message he is about to deliver, not just to one person but to everyone present. Jeremiah is stressing the importance of what he is about to say, making sure that both the individual he addresses and all the people around hear his words.
In this scene, Jeremiah is speaking publicly, likely in the temple area, addressing Hananiah (a prophet who had just made a false prophecy) and the gathered people. Jeremiah’s words highlight that his message is not private or secret; it is meant for the whole community. This verse sets the stage for Jeremiah to challenge Hananiah’s message and to make sure everyone hears the truth as Jeremiah understands it.
The Hebrew behind Jeremiah 28:7
- hear (שָׁמַע, shamaʿ): This word means more than just physically hearing; it often carries the sense of paying attention or obeying. Jeremiah is urging his listeners to take his words seriously.
- word (דָּבָר, davar): This term means "word," "matter," or "message." Jeremiah is emphasizing that what he is about to say is significant and authoritative.
- speak (דָּבַר, davar): This verb is related to the previous word and stresses the act of declaring or proclaiming something important.
- ears (אֹזֶן, ozen): Used twice, this word draws attention to the act of listening, both for the individual addressed and for the whole group.
- people (עָם, ʿam): This word refers to the gathered community, showing that Jeremiah’s message is for all, not just for Hananiah.
Why Jeremiah 28:7 matters
- Jeremiah 28:7 makes it clear that Jeremiah’s message is public and meant to be heard by everyone, not just a private conversation between prophets. This openness is important in a time of competing prophetic voices.
- The verse highlights Jeremiah’s role as a true prophet who wants the people to weigh his words carefully, in contrast to Hananiah’s earlier false prophecy.
- By repeating the call to listen, Jeremiah underlines the seriousness of his message and prepares the people to judge between true and false prophecy in the verses that follow.