The letter was sent by the hand of Elasah the son of (A)Shaphan and Gemariah the son of (B)Hilkiah, whom Zedekiah king of Judah sent to Babylon to Nebuchadnezzar king of Babylon. It said: “Thus says the Lord of hosts, the God of Israel, to all the exiles whom I have sent into exile from Jerusalem to Babylon: (C)Build houses and live in them; plant gardens and eat their produce.

Read full chapter

Bible Gateway Recommends

ESV Study Bible, Black Genuine Leather
ESV Study Bible, Black Genuine Leather
Retail: $114.99
Our Price: $54.99
Save: $60.00 (52%)
4.5 of 5.0 stars
ESV Economy Bible, Large Print Softcover
ESV Economy Bible, Large Print Softcover
Retail: $7.99
Our Price: $5.49
Save: $2.50 (31%)
4.0 of 5.0 stars
ESV Illuminated Scripture Journal: 27-Volume Old Testament  Boxed Set
ESV Illuminated Scripture Journal: 27-Volume Old Testament Boxed Set
Retail: $199.99
Our Price: $119.99
Save: $80.00 (40%)
4.5 of 5.0 stars
ESV Holy Bible for Kids, Softcover Economy Edition
ESV Holy Bible for Kids, Softcover Economy Edition
Retail: $9.99
Our Price: $5.99
Save: $4.00 (40%)
4.5 of 5.0 stars
ESV Economy Bible, Giant Print Softcover
ESV Economy Bible, Giant Print Softcover
Retail: $11.99
Our Price: $8.99
Save: $3.00 (25%)
5.0 of 5.0 stars