Definition: Therefore hear now, I pray thee, O my lord the king: let my supplication, I pray thee, be accepted before thee; that thou cause me not to return to the house of Jonathan the scribe, lest I die there.
Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Jeremiah 37:20. It's a really powerful and poignant piece of scripture. Here’s a simplified explanation: The Basic Situation: Jeremiah is a prophet who’s been facing a difficult situation – he’s being punished for his actions and is worried about his future. He’s receiving a desperate plea from the king, King Jonathan, who is asking him to stop him from returning to a place where he's likely to die. What’s Happening: “Therefore hear now, I pray thee, O my lord the king…” – This is Jeremiah pleading directly to the king. He’s essentially begging for permission or understanding. “…let my supplication, I pray thee, be accepted before thee.” – This means he's asking for God's favor and that his prayers will be heard. “that thou cause me not to return to the house of Jonathan the scribe, lest I die there.” – This is the core of the problem. Jeremiah is terrified that if he returns to the house of Jonathan, he’ll die. He’s worried about the dangers and potential for harm in that location. What it Means (Simplified): This verse speaks to a situation where someone is facing serious consequences for their actions. Jeremiah is asking for God's protection – essentially, his safety – because of a dangerous or perilous place he's heading towards. It’s about seeking divine intervention and reassurance in the face of potential danger. Overall Significance: This passage highlights several important themes: God's Protection: It emphasizes that God is involved in protecting those who are facing difficult situations. Fear and Obedience: Jeremiah displays a deep fear, which shows his obedience to God’s will. He recognizes the need for divine guidance. Seeking Comfort: It also speaks to a longing for peace and safety, demonstrating a desire for relief from anxiety and potential harm. In short, it's a plea for God's favor and protection when someone is facing danger. --- Do you want me to: Explain another part of the verse? Connect this passage to a broader theme in scripture (like repentance or divine judgment)?