Jeremiah 42:4 meaning

In a period of turmoil, the leaders and people of Judah faced critical decisions after the fall of Jerusalem. They turned to the prophet Jeremiah, seeking divine guidance as they contemplated fleeing to Egypt. This inquiry reflects a common human tendency to seek God's approval for predetermined plans rather than genuinely desiring His will. Their request was earnest, but there was an underlying possibility that they were merely looking for validation to escape their dire situation. The people acknowledged their vulnerable state, calling upon Jeremiah to pray for them and seek direction from the Lord.