King James Version
What Does Jeremiah 36:13 Mean?
“Then Michaiah declared unto them all the words that he had heard, when Baruch read the book in the ears of the people.”
Jeremiah 36:13 · KJV
Context
11
When Michaiah the son of Gemariah, the son of Shaphan, had heard out of the book all the words of the LORD,
12
Then he went down into the king's house, into the scribe's chamber: and, lo, all the princes sat there, even Elishama the scribe, and Delaiah the son of Shemaiah, and Elnathan the son of Achbor, and Gemariah the son of Shaphan, and Zedekiah the son of Hananiah, and all the princes.
13
Then Michaiah declared unto them all the words that he had heard, when Baruch read the book in the ears of the people.
14
Therefore all the princes sent Jehudi the son of Nethaniah, the son of Shelemiah, the son of Cushi, unto Baruch, saying, Take in thine hand the roll wherein thou hast read in the ears of the people, and come. So Baruch the son of Neriah took the roll in his hand, and came unto them.
15
And they said unto him, Sit down now, and read it in our ears. So Baruch read it in their ears.
Commentary
KJV Study CommentaryThen Michaiah declared unto them all the words that he had heard (נָגַד, nagad—to declare, announce, make known). Michaiah functions as a faithful reporter, ensuring the princes receive the complete prophetic message. When Baruch read the book in the ears of the people—The repetition of public reading emphasizes the transparency of prophetic ministry; this was no secret conspiracy but open proclamation.
The phrase "all the words" appears again, stressing comprehensive communication. Michaiah doesn't sanitize or summarize; he delivers the full weight of divine judgment. This contrasts sharply with false prophets who spoke smooth words (Jeremiah 6:14, 8:11). True ministry requires courage to communicate hard truth without dilution.
The phrase "all the words" appears again, stressing comprehensive communication. Michaiah doesn't sanitize or summarize; he delivers the full weight of divine judgment. This contrasts sharply with false prophets who spoke smooth words (Jeremiah 6:14, 8:11). True ministry requires courage to communicate hard truth without dilution.
KJV Study — Public Domain
Historical & Cultural Context
In ancient Near Eastern courts, messengers were expected to deliver messages verbatim. Altering a royal message could mean death. Michaiah applies this same fidelity to God's word, treating the prophetic scroll with the reverence due to divine communication. His role bridges the gap between public proclamation and private governmental deliberation.
Reflection Questions
- When sharing biblical truth with others, how can you ensure you're communicating the complete message rather than selective portions?
- What gives you the courage to declare "all the words" of Scripture, including uncomfortable truths?
- How do you balance wisdom in communication with fidelity to the full counsel of God's word?
Original Language Analysis
Hebrew · 13 wordsוַיַּגֵּ֤ד1 of 13
“declared”
H5046properly, to front, i.e., stand boldly out opposite; by implication (causatively), to manifest; figuratively, to announce (always by word of mouth to
לָהֶם֙2 of 13
H0אֵ֥ת4 of 13
H853properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)
כָּל5 of 13
H3605properly, the whole; hence, all, any or every (in the singular only, but often in a plural sense)
הַדְּבָרִ֖ים6 of 13
“unto them all the words”
H1697a word; by implication, a matter (as spoken of) or thing; adverbially, a cause
אֲשֶׁ֣ר7 of 13
H834who, which, what, that; also (as an adverb and a conjunction) when, where, how, because, in order that, etc
שָׁמֵ֑עַ8 of 13
“that he had heard”
H8085to hear intelligently (often with implication of attention, obedience, etc.; causatively, to tell, etc.)
בִּקְרֹ֥א9 of 13
“read”
H7121to call out to (i.e., properly, address by name, but used in a wide variety of applications)
הָעָֽם׃13 of 13
“of the people”
H5971a people (as a congregated unit); specifically, a tribe (as those of israel); hence (collectively) troops or attendants; figuratively, a flock
Study Guide
Historical Context
This verse is found in the book of Jeremiah. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.
Theological Significance
Jeremiah 36:13 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.
Cross-References
Verses related to Jeremiah 36:13 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge