| Time Period |
Jeremiah’s ministry spanned approximately 40 years, from 627 BC to 586 BC. It occurred during the final years of the kingdom of Judah leading up to the Babylonian conquest. |
| Political Situation |
Jeremiah prophesied during a tumultuous period marked by the decline of the Assyrian Empire, the rise of the Babylonian Empire, and the eventual fall of Jerusalem to Babylon in 586 BC. |
| Religious Context |
Judah was experiencing religious apostasy with widespread idolatry. The people had strayed from Mosaic law and were engaging in pagan practices, which Jeremiah condemned. |
| Main Themes |
Judgment and repentance are critical themes in Jeremiah. The prophet called for the people to repent to avoid destruction, but he also foretold the inevitable judgment due to their persistent sin. Despite this, Jeremiah also spoke of hope and restoration. |
| Key Events |
Major events during Jeremiah’s lifetime included the reforms of King Josiah, the death of Josiah, the reigns of subsequent kings such as Jehoiakim and Zedekiah, the first Babylonian exile (597 BC), and the final destruction of Jerusalem (586 BC). |
| Jeremiah’s Personal Life |
Jeremiah was known as the "weeping prophet" due to his deep sorrow over Judah's sins and impending judgment. He faced immense opposition, imprisonment, and threats to his life. Despite this, he faithfully delivered God's messages. |
| Authorship |
Jeremiah himself is credited with much of the content, likely with the assistance of his scribe Baruch, who recorded and preserved his prophecies. |
