Jeremiah, known as the “weeping prophet,” was a significant figure in Hebrew scriptures and the Christian Old Testament. He is regarded as one of the major prophets and is credited with writing the Book of Jeremiah. His mission as a prophet began during the reign of King Josiah and ended during the rule of King Zedekiah, witnessing the exile of Jerusalem. Jeremiah’s actions and challenges, including his imprisonment, are documented in the book. He is considered a major prophet in Judaism, Christianity, and Islam, and his writings are included in their respective religious texts.
Quick Facts
- Also Known As: Weeping prophet
- Died At Age: 69
- Family: father: Hilkiah
- Born Country: Israel
- Died on: 586 BC
Childhood & Early Life
Jeremiah was born in the 7th century BC, in Anathoth, to a Jewish priest named Hilkiah. He was possibly the same person who found a lost copy of the ‘Book of the Law’ at a temple in Jerusalem during the reign of King Josiah. Jeremiah was mentored by prophets Isaiah and Zephaniah, and his relative, prophetess Huldah, preached repentance to women. Due to the difficulties he faced, Jeremiah became known as “the weeping prophet.”
Calling & Prophetic Ministry
Jeremiah was called to prophetic ministry in 626 BC by Yahweh. He prophesied about the future destruction of Jerusalem due to Israel’s unfaithfulness and worship of false gods. Jeremiah preached across Israel, expressing disapproval for fake prophets, greedy priests, and idolatry. He foretold the destruction of Judah and Jerusalem, while other prophets predicted peace. Jeremiah’s prophetic career spanned four decades, witnessing the reign of five Judah kings.
Persecution, Conflicts, & Later Life
Jeremiah faced persecution and conflicts throughout his ministry. The priestly kin of Jeremiah and the men of Anathoth plotted against him, but the Lord saved his life. He was smote and put in stocks by the deputy chief priest Pashur. Another priest named Pashur advised King Zedekiah to kill Jeremiah for his prophecies. Jeremiah was thrown into a cistern but later rescued. He was kept as a prisoner until the Babylonian army took over the kingdom. After his release, Jeremiah relocated to Mizpah in Benjamin. He possibly spent the last phase of his life in Egypt.
Legacy
Jeremiah’s death has not been validated, but it is believed that he passed away in the 6th century BC in Egypt. In Rabbinic literature, Ezekiel is mentioned as the son of Jeremiah. Ezekiel is recognized as a Hebrew prophet in Judaism, Christianity, and Islam.