Moreover Jeremiah said unto all the people, and to all the women, Hear the word of the LORD, all Judah that are in the land of Egypt:

JEREMIAH 44:24KJV
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Jeremiah 44:24 (KJV)

What does Jeremiah 44:24 mean?

Jeremiah 44:24 records the prophet Jeremiah addressing all the people of Judah living in Egypt, specifically including the women, and commanding them to listen to the message from the LORD. The verse highlights that Jeremiah is delivering a direct word from God to the entire community of Judah now residing in Egypt.

In this moment, Jeremiah is speaking to Judeans who had fled to Egypt after Jerusalem’s destruction. He singles out both men and women, showing that everyone is responsible for hearing and responding to God’s message. This sets the stage for the serious warning and consequences Jeremiah is about to announce on behalf of the LORD.

The Hebrew behind Jeremiah 44:24

  • "Hear" — שְׁמָעוּ (shema‘u): This word means more than just listening; it often carries the sense of paying attention with the intent to obey. Jeremiah is calling for active, thoughtful attention from his audience.
  • "Word" — דָּבָר (davar): This term refers to a message, matter, or command. Here, it emphasizes that Jeremiah is not sharing his own thoughts but delivering a specific message from God.
  • "LORD" — יְהוָה (YHWH): This is the personal name of Israel’s God, underscoring that the message’s authority comes directly from the God of their ancestors, not from Jeremiah himself.
  • "Judah" — יְהוּדָה (Yehudah): By naming Judah, Jeremiah identifies his audience as the exiled community, reminding them of their identity and covenant relationship with God even while in a foreign land.

Why Jeremiah 44:24 matters

  • The verse clarifies that God’s message is for everyone, not just leaders or men, by specifically mentioning the women among the exiles.
  • It connects the exiled Judeans in Egypt back to their identity as God’s people, even though they are far from their homeland.
  • This verse marks a turning point in the chapter, as Jeremiah prepares to deliver a warning about the consequences of the people's choices, making it clear that no one is exempt from hearing or responding to God’s word.