Now while he was not yet gone back, he said, Go back also to Gedaliah the son of Ahikam the son of Shaphan, whom the king of Babylon hath made governor over the cities of Judah, and dwell with him among the people: or go wheresoever it seemeth convenient unto thee to go. So the captain of the guard gave him victuals and a reward, and let him go.

JEREMIAH 40:5KJV
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Jeremiah 40:5 (KJV)

What does Jeremiah 40:5 mean?

Jeremiah 40:5 describes how Jeremiah, before leaving, is given the choice to stay with Gedaliah—the new governor appointed by Babylon—or to go anywhere else he wishes, and is provided with food and a gift by the captain of the guard. This verse shows Jeremiah being treated with respect and given freedom after Jerusalem’s fall.

The context is that Jerusalem has been conquered by Babylon, and Jeremiah, a prophet who had warned of this disaster, is now being released from captivity. Nebuzaradan, the Babylonian captain, is speaking to Jeremiah, offering him options for his future. Gedaliah, mentioned here, is the Babylonian-appointed governor over the remaining people in Judah, and Jeremiah is given the practical support of food and a reward as he is set free.

The Hebrew behind Jeremiah 40:5

  • The word "back" (שׁוּב, shuv) appears twice, meaning "to return" or "to go back." This highlights Jeremiah’s opportunity to return to a place or person of his choosing, not just being sent away but given real agency.
  • "Convenient" (יָשָׁר, yashar + עַיִן, ayin) is a phrase that literally means "what is right in your eyes." This stresses that Jeremiah is free to choose whatever seems best to him, showing unusual respect for his personal judgment.
  • "Victuals" (מָזוֹן, mazon) refers to provisions or food, and "reward" (אֶשְׁכָּר, eshkar) means a gift or present. These words show that Jeremiah is not just released but is sent off with practical support, indicating favor and care from his captors.

Why Jeremiah 40:5 matters

  • This verse clears up any idea that Jeremiah was forced to stay in Judah; he was given a real choice and treated with dignity by the Babylonians.
  • The respect shown to Jeremiah by his enemies highlights his unique position and the fulfillment of God’s promise to protect him.
  • The verse connects to the wider story by setting up Jeremiah’s next steps after the destruction of Jerusalem, showing how he is cared for even in a time of national disaster.