Jeremiah 44:1-30

44:7, 8 | Parent’s idolatry had brought tragic consequences into the lives of their children. Sin often has a multigenerational impact.

44:16-18 | The people’s view of reality was so twisted that they believed Josiah’s reforms that had put an end to pagan practices were the cause of the calamity that had befallen them. They were disloyal to the Lord because they were convinced that the pagan gods could protect them in a way He could not.

44:19 | The queen of heaven refers to a fertility goddess, either the Babylonian Ishtar or the Canaanite Asherah. Worshippers offered cakes in her image to gain her favor and blessing. Women believed these female deities would bless them with the ability to bear children.

44:24-30 | Jeremiah’s ministry concludes with the relationship between God and His people still broken, awaiting the future restoration.

44:30 | Pharaoh Hophra had fought against Babylon when Jerusalem was under siege (37:5; 47:5), and in 570 BC, the Babylonians killed him in battle. Escape to Egypt was not the solution for the Jews who had fled there; their real need was to return to the Lord.