Baruch ben Neriah
Baruch ben Neriah was the historical secretary and faithful companion of the prophet Jeremiah. The canonical book of Jeremiah mentions him repeatedly. However, scholars believe the Book of Baruch was written much later (possibly 2nd-1st century BCE) by an anonymous author honoring his legacy.
Historical Context
The historical Baruch lived through the destruction of Jerusalem in 586 BCE. According to Jeremiah, he wrote down the prophet's oracles and suffered persecution alongside him. The book bearing his name was likely composed during the Maccabean or Roman period.
Faith Under Attack🛡️ RISKED LIFE
Persecution Faced
The historical Baruch suffered greatly for his faith. He was arrested along with Jeremiah for prophesying Jerusalem's destruction (Jeremiah 36:26). King Jehoiakim ordered their arrest after burning Jeremiah's scroll. They lived as fugitives, hiding from royal authorities who wanted them dead.
⚔️ Suffering & Sacrifice
Baruch witnessed the destruction of Jerusalem and the Temple in 586 BCE. He saw his people massacred, enslaved, and exiled. According to Jewish tradition, he was eventually taken to Egypt against his will with the remnant of Judah. He spent his life as a persecuted prophet's assistant, losing everything—his home, his nation, and likely his life in exile. The book honoring him was written during another time of persecution.
Key Teachings
- 1Confession of national sin
- 2Wisdom is found in the Torah
- 3Hope for restoration and return
- 4God will vindicate His people
Bible Texts Referenced
Jeremiah 36:4
“Then Jeremiah called Baruch the son of Neriah: and Baruch wrote from the mouth of Jeremiah all the words of the LORD, which he had spoken unto him, upon a roll of a book.”
Explanation: This canonical reference establishes Baruch as Jeremiah's faithful scribe. The apocryphal book draws on his historical reputation.
Jeremiah 45:1-5
“The word that Jeremiah the prophet spake unto Baruch the son of Neriah...”
Explanation: The only chapter in Jeremiah addressed directly to Baruch, showing his importance to the prophetic ministry.
Protestant Concerns
Baruch 3:4
“O Lord Almighty, God of Israel, hear now the prayer of the dead of Israel.”
Issue: The phrase "prayer of the dead" is ambiguous and has been used to support prayers by/for the dead, which Protestants reject.
Legacy
While Protestants do not accept Baruch as canonical, the book provides valuable insight into Second Temple Judaism's reflection on exile, sin, and hope for restoration. It shows how later generations honored prophetic figures like Jeremiah and his scribe.