Introduction

Although the Book of Jeremiah is the second of the major prophets, it is the longest book of prophecy in the Old Testament with 1,364 verses. In the book, Jeremiah gives us plenty of information about himself; this book contains more information about the author than any of the other prophetic books in the Old Testament.[1] We know that Jeremiah was from the town of Anathoth. Anathoth was a city of refuge (Number 35) in the land belonging to the Tribe of Benjamin.[2] This identifies Jeremiah as a Levite.

Date and Authorship

Jeremiah tells us that he began prophesying during the reign of Josiah, and we see him continuing to prophecy through the fall of Jerusalem. God instructs Jeremiah to write the prophecies that have been revealed to him in a scroll; this is what eventually becomes the book of Jeremiah. Using this information, scholars estimate that the book was written between 640-516bc.

For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, saith the Lord, thoughts of peace, and not of evil, to give you an expected end.Jeremiah 29:11

Message and Purpose

Jeremiah's message is more of a proclamation of judgement than a call to repentance, though parts of it do indicate repentance was an option. The purpose of the book is to warn the Israelites about their separation from God. Once again, we see the Israelites committing idolatry and turning away from God. The prophecies give to Jeremiah are both meant to chastise Israel, as well as prepare them for the future. Although God hands down a serious judgment, He also promises a way out.

Interesting Facts

The book of Jeremiah contains a prophecy that outlines the new covenant that was given to us through the Messiah (Jeremiah 31:33)

Jeremiah was a contemporary of Habakkuk, and possibly Obadiah[1]

Jeremiah accounts for 35.7% of the times "thus saith the Lord is written in the Old Testament[1]

References

1. Holman Bible Publishers. The KJV Study Bible, pg. 1217-1220. 2014
2. "Anathoth". Bible Study Tools; visited October 2019
3. "Anathoth". Bible Atlas; visited October 2019