Verse (Click for Chapter) New International Version Then they asked Baruch, “Tell us, how did you come to write all this? Did Jeremiah dictate it?” New Living Translation “But first, tell us how you got these messages. Did they come directly from Jeremiah?” English Standard Version Then they asked Baruch, “Tell us, please, how did you write all these words? Was it at his dictation?” Berean Standard Bible “Tell us now,” they asked Baruch, “how did you write all these words? Was it at Jeremiah’s dictation?” Berean Literal Bible And they asked Baruch, saying: “Declare, please, to us how did you write all these words? From his mouth? King James Bible And they asked Baruch, saying, Tell us now, How didst thou write all these words at his mouth? New King James Version And they asked Baruch, saying, “Tell us now, how did you write all these words— at his instruction?” New American Standard Bible Then they asked Baruch, saying, “Tell us, please, how did you write all these words? Was it at Jeremiah’s dictation?” NASB 1995 And they asked Baruch, saying, “Tell us, please, how did you write all these words? Was it at his dictation?” NASB 1977 And they asked Baruch, saying, “Tell us please, how did you write all these words? Was it at his dictation?” Legacy Standard Bible And they asked Baruch, saying, “Declare to us, please, how did you write all these words? Was it at his dictation?” Amplified Bible And they asked Baruch, “Tell us now, how did you write all these words? At his (Jeremiah’s) dictation?” Berean Annotated Bible “Tell us now,” they asked Baruch (blessed), “how did you write all these words? Was it at Jeremiah’s dictation?” Christian Standard Bible Then they asked Baruch, “Tell us, how did you write all these words? At his dictation? ” Holman Christian Standard Bible Then they asked Baruch, “Tell us—how did you write all these words? At his dictation?” American Standard Version And they asked Baruch, saying, Tell us now, How didst thou write all these words at his mouth? Contemporary English Version "Did someone tell you what to write on this scroll?" English Revised Version And they asked Baruch, saying, tell us now, How didst thou write all these words at his mouth? GOD'S WORD® Translation Then they asked Baruch, "Please tell us how you wrote all this. Did Jeremiah dictate it to you?" Good News Translation Then they asked him, "Tell us, now, how did you come to write all this? Did Jeremiah dictate it to you?" International Standard Version Then they asked Baruch, "Please tell us how you wrote all the words. Did Jeremiah dictate them all?" NET Bible Then they asked Baruch, "How did you come to write all these words? Do they actually come from Jeremiah's mouth?" New Heart English Bible They asked Baruch, saying, "Tell us now, How did you write all these words at his mouth?" Webster's Bible Translation And they asked Baruch, saying, Tell us now, How didst thou write all these words at his mouth? Majority Text Translations Majority Standard Bible“Tell us now,” they asked Baruch, “how did you write all these words? Was it at Jeremiah’s dictation?” World English Bible They asked Baruch, saying, “Tell us now, how did you write all these words at his mouth?” Literal Translations Literal Standard VersionAnd they asked Baruch, saying, “Please declare to us, how did you write all these words from his mouth?” Berean Literal Bible And they asked Baruch, saying: “Declare, please, to us how did you write all these words? From his mouth? Young's Literal Translation And they asked Baruch, saying, 'Declare, we pray thee, to us, how didst thou write all these words -- from his mouth?' Smith's Literal Translation And they asked Baruch, saying, Announce now to us how thou didst write all these words from his mouth? Catholic Translations Douay-Rheims BibleAnd they asked him, saying: Tell us how didst thou write all these words from his mouth. Catholic Public Domain Version And they questioned him, saying, “Describe to us how you wrote all these words from his mouth.” New American Bible Then they asked Baruch: “Tell us, please, how did you come to write down all these words? Was it at his dictation?” New Revised Standard Version Then they questioned Baruch, “Tell us now, how did you write all these words? Was it at his dictation?” Translations from Aramaic Lamsa BibleAnd they asked Baruch, saying, Tell us now, how did you write all these words at his mouth? Peshitta Holy Bible Translated And they asked Baruk and they said to him: “Show us, how did you write all these words from his mouth?” OT Translations JPS Tanakh 1917And they asked Baruch, saying: 'Tell us now: How didst thou write all these words at his mouth?' Brenton Septuagint Translation And they asked Baruch, saying, Where didst thou write all these words? Additional Translations ... Audio Bible Context Jeremiah's Scroll Read in the King's House…16When they had heard all these words, they turned to one another in fear and said to Baruch, “Surely we must report all these words to the king.” 17“Tell us now,” they asked Baruch, “how did you write all these words? Was it at Jeremiah’s dictation?” 18“It was at his dictation,” Baruch replied. “He recited all these words to me and I wrote them in ink on the scroll.”… Cross References “Tell us now,” John 10:24 So the Jews gathered around Him and demanded, “How long will You keep us in suspense? If You are the Christ, tell us plainly.” Luke 8:9 Then His disciples asked Him what this parable meant. Daniel 2:3 he said to them, “I have had a dream, and my spirit is anxious to understand it.” they asked Baruch, 2 Kings 22:13 “Go and inquire of the LORD for me, for the people, and for all Judah concerning the words in this book that has been found. For great is the wrath of the LORD that burns against us because our fathers have not obeyed the words of this book by doing all that is written about us.” Acts 8:34 “Tell me,” said the eunuch, “who is the prophet talking about, himself or someone else?” John 1:19 And this was John’s testimony when the Jews of Jerusalem sent priests and Levites to ask him, “Who are you?” “how did you write all these words? Deuteronomy 31:24-26 When Moses had finished writing in a book the words of this law from beginning to end, / he gave this command to the Levites who carried the ark of the covenant of the LORD: / “Take this Book of the Law and place it beside the ark of the covenant of the LORD your God, so that it may remain there as a witness against you. Jeremiah 30:2 “This is what the LORD, the God of Israel, says: ‘Write in a book all the words that I have spoken to you. Exodus 24:4 And Moses wrote down all the words of the LORD. Early the next morning he got up and built an altar at the base of the mountain, along with twelve pillars for the twelve tribes of Israel. Was it at Jeremiah’s dictation?” Deuteronomy 18:18 I will raise up for them a prophet like you from among their brothers. I will put My words in his mouth, and he will tell them everything I command him. Jeremiah 1:9 Then the LORD reached out His hand, touched my mouth, and said to me: “Behold, I have put My words in your mouth. 2 Samuel 23:2 The Spirit of the LORD spoke through me; His word was on my tongue. Jeremiah 25:13 I will bring upon that land all the words I have pronounced against it, all that is written in this book, which Jeremiah has prophesied against all the nations. Jeremiah 45:1 This is the word that Jeremiah the prophet spoke to Baruch son of Neriah when he wrote these words on a scroll at the dictation of Jeremiah in the fourth year of Jehoiakim son of Josiah, king of Judah: 2 Kings 22:10-11 Moreover, Shaphan the scribe told the king, “Hilkiah the priest has given me a book.” And Shaphan read it in the presence of the king. / When the king heard the words of the Book of the Law, he tore his clothes 2 Chronicles 34:18-19 Moreover, Shaphan the scribe told the king, “Hilkiah the priest has given me a book.” And Shaphan read it in the presence of the king. / When the king heard the words of the Law, he tore his clothes Treasury of Scripture And they asked Baruch, saying, Tell us now, How did you write all these words at his mouth? Tell. John 9:10,11,15,26,27 Therefore said they unto him, How were thine eyes opened? … Jump to Previous Baruch Declare Dictate Dictation Jeremiah Mouth Please Questioning Words Write WritingJump to Next Baruch Declare Dictate Dictation Jeremiah Mouth Please Questioning Words Write WritingJeremiah 36 1. Jeremiah causes Baruch to write his prophesy,5. and publicly to read it. 11. The princes, having intelligence thereof by Michaiah, 14. send Jehudi to fetch the roll and read it. 19. They will Baruch to hide himself and Jeremiah. 20. The king, Jehoiakim, being certified thereof, hears part of it and burns the roll. 27. Jeremiah denounces his judgment. 32. Baruch writes a new copy. “Tell us now,” This phrase indicates a sense of urgency and curiosity from the officials. In the context of Jeremiah 36, the officials are responding to the reading of the scroll containing Jeremiah's prophecies. The urgency reflects the gravity of the message, as the prophecies often contained warnings of impending judgment. This mirrors other instances in Scripture where individuals seek immediate understanding of divine messages, such as in Acts 2:37, when the crowd asks Peter what they should do after hearing his sermon. they asked Baruch, “how did you write all these words? Was it at Jeremiah’s dictation?” Persons / Places / Events 1. BaruchThe scribe and faithful companion of the prophet Jeremiah. He played a crucial role in recording Jeremiah's prophecies and delivering them to the people. 2. Jeremiah A major prophet in the Old Testament, known for his messages of warning and hope to the people of Judah. He dictated the words of God to Baruch. 3. The Officials The group of leaders in Judah who were concerned about the words written by Baruch and sought to understand their origin and authority. 4. The Scroll The physical document containing the prophecies of Jeremiah, which Baruch wrote down as dictated by Jeremiah. 5. The Temple The central place of worship in Jerusalem where the scroll was read to the people, highlighting the public nature of God's message. Teaching Points The Importance of Faithful TransmissionBaruch's role as a scribe underscores the importance of accurately transmitting God's word. We are called to handle Scripture with care and integrity. The Role of Prophets and Scribes Just as Jeremiah and Baruch worked together, God often uses partnerships in ministry. We should value and support those who help communicate God's message. The Authority of Scripture The officials' inquiry into the source of the words highlights the need to recognize the divine authority behind Scripture. We should approach the Bible with reverence and obedience. Courage in Proclaiming God's Word Baruch's willingness to write and read the scroll publicly demonstrates courage. We are encouraged to boldly share God's truth, even when it is unpopular. The Power of God's Word The impact of the scroll on the officials shows the transformative power of God's word. We should allow Scripture to challenge and change us. Bible Study Questions and Answers 1. What is the meaning of Jeremiah 36:17?2. How does Jeremiah 36:17 emphasize the importance of accurately conveying God's message today? 3. What role does Baruch play in ensuring the message's integrity in Jeremiah 36:17? 4. How can we ensure our teachings align with God's truth like Baruch's? 5. What scriptural connections exist between Jeremiah 36:17 and 2 Timothy 3:16 on inspiration? 6. How can we apply Jeremiah 36:17's principles in our daily Bible study practices? 7. What historical evidence supports the events described in Jeremiah 36:17? 8. How does Jeremiah 36:17 reflect God's sovereignty in delivering His message? 9. Why did God choose Baruch to write Jeremiah's words in Jeremiah 36:17? 10. What are the top 10 Lessons from Jeremiah 36? 11. Is there any credible record of Johanan and others forcing Jeremiah and Baruch into Egypt (Jer 43:1-7)? 12. Why does Jeremiah 36 focus on burning a scroll instead of tablets or other writing materials, and could this reflect an anachronistic portrayal of ancient record-keeping? (Jeremiah 36:23) 13. In Jeremiah 45:1, how can we trust Baruch's firsthand account if there is little external evidence confirming his role or even his existence? 14. What is the Bible's stance on burning Bibles? What Does Jeremiah 36:17 Mean Tell us nowThe royal officials have just heard the public reading of Jeremiah’s scroll (Jeremiah 36:15–16), and fear grips them. Their urgent “Tell us now” shows a seriousness that contrasts with King Jehoiakim’s later contempt (Jeremiah 36:22–24). Scripture often portrays such immediate calls for explanation when God’s word pierces hearts—think of Acts 2:37 (“Brothers, what shall we do?”) and Acts 16:30. Like those moments, the officials sense that timely obedience cannot be postponed (Hebrews 3:7-8). they asked Baruch Attention turns from the prophet to his scribe. Baruch, though lesser known, has already proven faithful (Jeremiah 32:12-16; 45:1-5). His presence reminds us that God often uses supporting servants to preserve and transmit revelation—Joshua for Moses (Deuteronomy 31:9), Jonathan’s armor-bearer (1 Samuel 14:6-7), Silas writing with Peter (1 Peter 5:12). The officials recognize Baruch’s firsthand knowledge, treating him as a trustworthy witness (Proverbs 14:25). how did you write all these words? The question shows awe at the quantity and precision of the scroll. It echoes earlier commands: “Write in a book all the words I have spoken to you” (Jeremiah 30:2). Similar directives appear with Moses (Exodus 34:27) and John (Revelation 1:11). - The phrase underscores verbal inspiration: God’s words, not human opinion (Jeremiah 1:9; Matthew 4:4). - It highlights preservation—ink on parchment ensures that truth endures beyond the speaker’s voice (Isaiah 30:8). - It prepares for public accountability; once written, the message can be read, reread, and verified (Deuteronomy 17:18-19). Was it at Jeremiah’s dictation? They need assurance that the scroll carries prophetic authority. Dictation affirms: - Source: “The word that came to Jeremiah from the LORD” (Jeremiah 36:1-2). - Process: “Jeremiah dictated all the words…the LORD had spoken” (Jeremiah 36:4). This mirrors how Peter describes Scripture: “men spoke from God as they were carried along by the Holy Spirit” (2 Peter 1:21) and Paul’s “All Scripture is God-breathed” (2 Timothy 3:16). - Implication: If the words are truly Jeremiah’s (and thus the LORD’s), the officials must act. Ignoring them will bring judgment, just as Jehoiakim’s burning of the scroll does (Jeremiah 36:30-31). Their inquiry is not academic; it is a life-and-death test of obedience (James 1:22-25). summary Jeremiah 36:17 captures a decisive moment: officials urgently press Baruch to verify the divine origin of the scroll. Their question underlines three truths—God’s word demands immediate attention, He faithfully employs humble servants to record it, and its prophetic dictation carries unquestionable authority. How the hearers respond will determine blessing or judgment, then and now. (17-19) Tell us now, How didst thou write . . .?--The question was clearly put as a judicial interrogatory. The princes were anxious to ascertain how far each of the parties concerned was responsible. Had Baruch exercised any discretion in writing so that the words were his, though the substance was Jeremiah's? or had he, on his own responsibility, and without the prophet's will, published what had been written privately? or had every syllable as it was read come from the prophet's lips? The scribe's answer showed that the last hypothesis answered to the facts of the case. On hearing this they, obviously with a friendly regard, advise him and the prophet to hide themselves till they should see what effect the report would have on the king's mind. It would appear from Jeremiah 36:19 that Jeremiah, though "shut up" and unable to go into the house of the Lord (Jeremiah 36:5), was not actually so imprisoned as to hinder him from concealing himself. Either, therefore, we must assume that he was in a "libera custodia," that gave him facilities for an escape, which the princes connived at, or that by "shut up" he meant only hindered by some cause or other. The latter seems the more probable hypothesis. In the concealment of the prophet we find a parallel to that of Elijah and the other prophets under Ahab (1Kings 17:3; 1Kings 18:4), of Polycarp (Mart. Polyc. c. 5), perhaps also of Luther in the Wartburg.Verse 17. - How didst thou write all these words at his mouth! Two questions seem to be combined here - "How didst thou write all these words?" and "Didst thou write it all at his mouth?" Baruch's answer is good for both.Parallel Commentaries ... Hebrew “Tell usהַגֶּד־ (hag·geḏ-) Verb - Hifil - Imperative - masculine singular Strong's 5046: To be conspicuous now,” נָ֣א (nā) Interjection Strong's 4994: I pray', 'now', 'then' they asked שָׁאֲל֖וּ (šā·’ă·lū) Verb - Qal - Perfect - third person common plural Strong's 7592: To inquire, to request, to demand Baruch, בָּר֔וּךְ (bā·rūḵ) Noun - proper - masculine singular Strong's 1263: Baruch -- 'blessed', three Israelites “how אֵ֗יךְ (’êḵ) Interjection Strong's 349: How?, how!, where did you write כָּתַ֛בְתָּ (kā·ṯaḇ·tā) Verb - Qal - Perfect - second person masculine singular Strong's 3789: To grave, to write all כָּל־ (kāl-) Noun - masculine singular construct Strong's 3605: The whole, all, any, every these הָאֵ֖לֶּה (hā·’êl·leh) Article | Pronoun - common plural Strong's 428: These, those words? הַדְּבָרִ֥ים (had·də·ḇā·rîm) Article | Noun - masculine plural Strong's 1697: A word, a matter, thing, a cause [Was it] at [Jeremiah’s] dictation?” מִפִּֽיו׃ (mip·pîw) Preposition-m | Noun - masculine singular construct | third person masculine singular Strong's 6310: The mouth, edge, portion, side, according to Links Jeremiah 36:17 NIVJeremiah 36:17 NLT Jeremiah 36:17 ESV Jeremiah 36:17 NASB Jeremiah 36:17 KJV Jeremiah 36:17 BibleApps.com Jeremiah 36:17 Biblia Paralela Jeremiah 36:17 Chinese Bible Jeremiah 36:17 French Bible Jeremiah 36:17 Catholic Bible OT Prophets: Jeremiah 36:17 They asked Baruch saying Tell us now (Jer.) |
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