ירמיהו, פרק ל״ד, פסוק ה׳

A complex promise of comfort emerges within a deeply tragic reality for King Zedekiah. Even though he is destined to be taken into exile, he receives a divine assurance that his end will be marked by dignity and the traditional mourning customs reserved for royalty.

He is promised a peaceful death, a concept that raises questions given his harsh fate of captivity and blindness. The primary understanding is that this peace simply means he will not be killed by the sword. Instead, he will pass away naturally in his bed and receive royal honors [רד״ק]. Alternatively, a tradition from the sages suggests a different kind of peace. In this view, Zedekiah will live to see the downfall of his captor. Nebuchadnezzar, a ruler known for never releasing his prisoners, will die while Zedekiah is still alive. Immediately following Nebuchadnezzar's death, Zedekiah will be freed from prison. Though he will die shortly afterward, he will do so as a free man and receive a highly respectful burial [רש״י, רד״ק, מצודת דוד].

A central expression of this promised dignity involves a ceremonial burning ritual, a customary tribute for departed kings. There are two complementary ways to understand this practice. One approach explains that fragrant spices and perfumes would be burned to spread a pleasant scent in his honor [רד״ק, ביאור שטיינזלץ]. Another perspective notes that the fire would consume the king's personal bed, his belongings, and his daily utensils [רש״י, רד״ק, מצודת דוד, ביאור שטיינזלץ].

As part of his final respects, Zedekiah is assured that the people will openly mourn him. They will raise voices of deep grief, crying out in pain and wailing over the loss of their master [מצודת ציון, מצודת דוד, ביאור שטיינזלץ]. The certainty of these events is absolute. Because the decree was spoken directly by God Himself, Zedekiah is guaranteed that every aspect of this comforting promise will be fulfilled completely [רד״ק, מצודת דוד, ביאור שטיינזלץ].