ירמיהו, פרק ל״ז, פסוק י״ד

Facing a severe accusation of treason, Jeremiah responds with uncompromising firmness. He completely rejects the claim that he is defecting to the enemy, declaring it an absolute lie [מצודת דוד]. Instead of surrendering to the Babylonians, the prophet clarifies that he is simply making his way to his own home [רד״ק] [ביאור שטיינזלץ].

His choice to answer so sharply is deliberate. Jeremiah refuses to speak softly or flatter his accuser, Irijah. This firm stance is rooted in a painful past experience, as the prophet had previously been punished for flattering Irijah's grandfather [חומת אנך].

Despite Jeremiah's clear and truthful defense, his words fall on deaf ears. Irijah completely rejects the prophet's explanation and refuses to believe him [מצודת דוד]. Acting on his unfounded suspicions, he arrests Jeremiah and leads him away to the government officials so that they can judge his case [ביאור שטיינזלץ].