King James Version
What Does Jeremiah 39:18 Mean?
“For I will surely deliver thee, and thou shalt not fall by the sword, but thy life shall be for a prey unto thee: because thou hast put thy trust in me, saith the LORD.”
Jeremiah 39:18 · KJV
Context
16
Go and speak to Ebedmelech the Ethiopian, saying, Thus saith the LORD of hosts, the God of Israel; Behold, I will bring my words upon this city for evil, and not for good; and they shall be accomplished in that day before thee.
17
But I will deliver thee in that day, saith the LORD: and thou shalt not be given into the hand of the men of whom thou art afraid.
18
For I will surely deliver thee, and thou shalt not fall by the sword, but thy life shall be for a prey unto thee: because thou hast put thy trust in me, saith the LORD.
Commentary
KJV Study CommentaryThe reason for Ebed-melech's deliverance is stated explicitly: 'because thou hast put thy trust in me, saith the LORD.' This is the heart of saving faith - trust in God Himself, not in circumstances, nationality, or religious pedigree. His life becomes 'a prey' (spoils of war retained) - he survives amid general destruction. Faith secures what nothing else can.
KJV Study — Public Domain
Historical & Cultural Context
While Jerusalem was destroyed and most inhabitants killed or exiled, this Ethiopian servant was specifically protected by God's providence.
Reflection Questions
- What does it mean to put your trust in the LORD rather than in circumstances?
- How does God sometimes make your life 'a prey' - preserved from destruction around you?
Original Language Analysis
Hebrew · 15 wordsכִּ֤י1 of 15
H3588(by implication) very widely used as a relative conjunction or adverb (as below); often largely modified by other particles annexed
אֲמַלֶּטְךָ֔2 of 15
“For I will surely”
H4422properly, to be smooth, i.e., (by implication) to escape (as if by slipperiness); causatively, to release or rescue; specifically, to bring forth youn
אֲמַלֶּטְךָ֔3 of 15
“For I will surely”
H4422properly, to be smooth, i.e., (by implication) to escape (as if by slipperiness); causatively, to release or rescue; specifically, to bring forth youn
וּבַחֶ֖רֶב4 of 15
“by the sword”
H2719drought; also a cutting instrument (from its destructive effect), as a knife, sword, or other sharp implement
לֹ֣א5 of 15
H3808not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles
תִפֹּ֑ל6 of 15
“thee and thou shalt not fall”
H5307to fall, in a great variety of applications (intransitive or causative, literal or figurative)
וְהָיְתָ֨ה7 of 15
H1961to exist, i.e., be or become, come to pass (always emphatic, and not a mere copula or auxiliary)
לְךָ֤8 of 15
H0נַפְשְׁךָ֙9 of 15
“but thy life”
H5315properly, a breathing creature, i.e., animal of (abstractly) vitality; used very widely in a literal, accommodated or figurative sense (bodily or ment
כִּֽי11 of 15
H3588(by implication) very widely used as a relative conjunction or adverb (as below); often largely modified by other particles annexed
בָטַ֥חְתָּ12 of 15
“unto thee because thou hast put thy trust”
H982properly, to hie for refuge (but not so precipitately as h2620); figuratively, to trust, be confident or sure
בִּ֖י13 of 15
H0יְהוָֽה׃15 of 15
“the LORD”
H3068(the) self-existent or eternal; jeho-vah, jewish national name of god
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 39:18 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 39:18 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge