Jeremiah 52:15
Then Nebuzaradan the captain of the guard carried away captive certain of the poor of the people, and the residue of the people that remained in the city, and those that fell away, that fell to the king of Babylon, and the rest of the multitude.
Jeremiah 52:15
This verse shifts from siege to the aftermath: Nebuzaradan leads captives away—first, the poor of the people, then the rest who remained in the city and those who “fell to the king of Babylon,” i.e., defectors or those who aligned themselves with Babylon. The stripping of the city’s population is a typical ancient Near Eastern practice to cripple the ruling class and reduce resistance, while also transferring wealth and labor to the conqueror. The “poor” are singled out, highlighting social stratification even in catastrophe; those with little means often suffer most under empire. The phrase “the residue” suggests those who were left in the city after the initial sacking—likely the vulnerable, disabled, elderly, or perhaps the unfit to march. The verse shows that the consequences of rebellion extend beyond the burning and breaking of walls: exile becomes the new normal, a life uprooted from homeland and covenant community.
Exile functions theologically as both consequence and discipline. It exposes dependence on political power and wealth, revealing the inadequacy of human security. Yet God’s sovereignty is evident: even as the Babylonians carry away captives, this is within God-ordained judgment for Israel’s covenant breach. The verse also begins to foreground themes of restoration and return, first glimpsed as God’s people endure loss with hope for future redemption. Socially, it reminds readers that the vulnerable must be cared for within Israel’s story; exile tests faithfulness to God’s commands about justice and mercy.
Today’s parallel might be systemic pressures that uproot marginalized communities—economic downturns, forced migrations, policies that separate families. The call is to recognize the vulnerable in the wake of crisis and respond with mercy and justice. Practical steps: support refugee and immigrant ministry; advocate for fair treatment of the poor; volunteer with organizations that help exiles reestablish life—learn language basics, find work, provide housing. On a personal level, consider how we respond to loss: do we cling to “the good old days” or trust God’s plan for new chapters? This verse invites humility, solidarity, and generosity toward those displaced by life’s upheavals.
Cross-References: Leviticus 25:35-37; Deuteronomy 24:14-15; Psalm 69:33; Isaiah 57:19-21; 2 Corinthians 5:1-4