Jeremiah 1:18 - Exposition

Brasen walls . The plural is used instead of a collective term for the whole circle of fortifications. In the parallel passage ( Jeremiah 15:20 ) the singular occurs; the same alternation of plural and singular as in 2 Kings 25:10 ; 1 Kings 3:1 . The combination of figures strikingly expresses the invincibility of one whose strength is in his God. The kings of Judah . Why the plural? Most reply, Because Jeremiah would have to do with successive sovereigns. But this meaning would have been just as well conveyed by the singular: "the king of Judah," without any name being added—would moan the king who from time to time happened to be reigning. "Kings of Judah" in Jeremiah seems to have a special meaning, and to include all the members of the royal family, who formed a numerous and powerful class (see on Jeremiah 17:20 ).