ירמיהו, פרק מ׳, פסוק ה׳

After the destruction, the Babylonian captain of the guard grants the prophet Jeremiah absolute freedom to choose his place of residence. As the two converse, Jeremiah hesitates, not immediately stating his destination. The primary approach among commentators is that despite this silence, the captain senses from the prophet's behavior that he wishes to remain in the land rather than join the exile to Babylon. Accordingly, the captain suggests that Jeremiah go to Gedaliah, whom the Babylonian king has appointed to govern the cities of Judah.

Other perspectives offer different reasons for this interaction. One view suggests that Jeremiah actually preferred not to stay, but God intervened, directing him to join Gedaliah so that the poor people remaining in Judah would benefit from his spiritual leadership just as the exiles did [רש״י]. Another interpretation frames the captain's words as a practical warning: Jeremiah should not wait around hoping the exiles will soon return, because the current exile is not ending anytime soon. Therefore, if he wishes to stay in the land, he must actively seek out Gedaliah on his own [מלבי״ם].

Despite recommending Gedaliah, the captain emphasizes that the prophet is under no obligation. He is completely free to travel wherever he chooses, without any coercion. As they part ways, the captain provides Jeremiah with two distinct provisions: a fixed, regular food allowance from the royal house to sustain him, and a separate gift. Some commentators simply note these as two different types of offerings [רד״ק]. This exceptionally respectful treatment stems directly from the Babylonian king's orders. The sheer generosity of the parting gift reflects the high status of both individuals—an important official of a mighty king honoring a prophet of God [חומת אנך]. Ultimately, the captain sends the prophet on his way as a completely free man.