Jeremiah 38:14 (KJV)

What does Jeremiah 38:14 mean?

Jeremiah 38:14 describes King Zedekiah secretly summoning the prophet Jeremiah to a private place in the temple and asking him to answer a question honestly, without holding anything back. The king wants Jeremiah to speak openly, showing that he is seeking a truthful answer, possibly about the fate of Jerusalem.

In this scene, Zedekiah (the king of Judah) calls for Jeremiah, who is known as a prophet, and brings him to a specific, less public entrance of the temple. The king’s request—“hide nothing from me”—shows his anxiety and desire for an unfiltered message from God, even though he has not always listened to Jeremiah before. This meeting happens during a time of crisis, as Jerusalem is under threat from Babylon.

The Hebrew behind Jeremiah 38:14

• "Entry" (מָבוֹא, māvo’): This word refers to an entrance or passageway. The mention of the "third entry" suggests a private or less-used way into the temple, highlighting the secrecy of the meeting.
• "Hide" (כָּסָה, kāsāh): This verb means to cover or conceal. Zedekiah’s command that Jeremiah “hide nothing” shows he wants complete honesty, even if the truth is hard to hear.
• "Ask" (שָׁאַל, sha’al): This word means to inquire or request. The king is not just making conversation; he is seeking a serious answer, likely about the nation’s future.

Why Jeremiah 38:14 matters

• Jeremiah 38:14 shows Zedekiah’s inner conflict—he wants to hear from God through Jeremiah, but he is afraid to do so openly, which highlights his fear of public opinion and political pressure.
• The verse sets up a tense and private conversation, making it clear that the king is desperate enough to seek Jeremiah’s counsel in secret, even though he has previously ignored or opposed Jeremiah’s warnings.
• This moment connects to the larger story of Jerusalem’s final days, showing the seriousness of the situation and the king’s wavering leadership at a critical time.