Jeremiah 38:15 (KJV)

What does Jeremiah 38:15 mean?

Jeremiah 38:15 shows the prophet Jeremiah telling King Zedekiah that he fears for his life if he speaks honestly, and that even if he gives advice, the king is unlikely to listen. Jeremiah is cautious and frank, expressing mistrust toward the king’s willingness to accept or act on his message.

In this scene, Jeremiah is a prisoner, summoned by King Zedekiah for counsel about the fate of Jerusalem. Jeremiah’s response reveals both the danger he faces—since previous warnings have led to threats against him—and his frustration that his words are often ignored. The verse highlights the tension between a prophet’s duty to speak truth and the risks involved when leaders refuse to heed difficult messages.

The Hebrew behind Jeremiah 38:15

• "Surely" and "death" both use the Hebrew מוּת (mût), which means "to die." The repetition in the original language adds emphasis, showing Jeremiah’s real fear that telling the truth could cost him his life.
• "Counsel" comes from יָעַץ (ya‘ats), meaning "to advise" or "to give counsel." Jeremiah is not just delivering a message; he is offering guidance, which the king has a history of ignoring.
• "Hearken" is from שָׁמַע (shama‘), which means "to listen" or "to obey." Jeremiah doubts that Zedekiah will truly listen or act on what he says, not just hear the words.

Why Jeremiah 38:15 matters

• This verse clarifies that Jeremiah’s warnings were not just unpopular—they put him in real danger, and he knew it. His honesty about this risk shows his courage and the seriousness of his message.
• Jeremiah’s question about whether the king will listen highlights a pattern in the book: Zedekiah’s repeated reluctance to follow God’s guidance, even when he seeks it out.
• The verse sets up the tension for the following conversation, showing why Jeremiah is hesitant and why the king’s response is so important for the fate of Jerusalem.