Chapter 42: The Remnant’s Choice – Trust in G‑d or Flight to Mitzrayim
The Request (Pesukim 1–6):
The officers of the army, led by Yohanan ben Kareach, and all the people approach Yirmiyahu the prophet. They ask him to pray to G‑d on their behalf and promise to obey whatever G‑d commands—whether good or difficult.
G‑d’s Response (Pesukim 7–12):
After ten days, Yirmiyahu delivers the message:
- If the remnant stays in Eretz Yehudah, G‑d will protect them, rebuild them, and show mercy.
- They should not fear the king of Bavel; G‑d will save them and grant them favor.
The Warning (Pesukim 13–22):
If they choose to flee to Mitzrayim (Egypt) for safety and food, the very dangers they fear—war, famine, and pestilence—will follow them there.
- G‑d warns that His wrath will come upon them in Mitzrayim, and they will perish.
- Yirmiyahu rebukes them for hypocrisy: they asked for G‑d’s guidance but refuse to obey it.
Main Theme
Obedience to G‑d’s word brings security, even in difficult circumstances. Seeking refuge in Mitzrayim, driven by fear, leads to disaster. The passage emphasizes bitachon (trust) in G‑d over human strategies for safety.
