Jeremiah Chapter 1: A Detailed Exegesis

Jeremiah; often thought of as a 'gloomy' prophet was called by Yahweh to be his messenger for the people. Many people of Jeremiah's time called themselves prophets, often speaking form their own hearts and not of Yahweh's but Jeremiah is noted amongst a few as a true prophet. The first chapter of the book of Jeremiah looks at his context and historical background, and his commission from Yahweh. For him, it was signs that Yahweh …

…symbolic language. A fortified city, as iron pillar, a bronze wall. After the warning from Yahweh, this is reassurance to Jeremiah of the strength he will have against persecution when doing Yahweh's work. The three images are all of strength and defence. Jeremiah may have felt very similar to Moses and so this final verse would have reinforced this and encouraged Jeremiah to let go of his initial doubts and be a messenger for Yahweh.