Jeremiah 38:26 meaning

In times of crisis and fear, even the most powerful may act against their better judgment. Zedekiah, king of Judah, was caught in a moral dilemma as he sought guidance from the prophet Jeremiah while facing the imminent threat of Babylonian conquest. Despite recognizing Jeremiah's prophetic role, he ultimately capitulated to the pressures of his nobles, leading to the prophet’s imprisonment. This passage highlights the tension between divine truth and earthly power dynamics, encapsulating Zedekiah's internal struggle between seeking God's counsel and fearing public opinion among his officials.