Jeremiah 39 describes the fall of Jerusalem and the capture of King Zedekiah by the Babylonians. In this chapter, the Babylonian army, led by Nebuchadnezzar, besieges Jerusalem. Despite their previous resistance, the city’s defenses are breached, and the Babylonians enter the city. As a result, King Zedekiah and his men attempt to escape by night but are pursued and captured on the plains of Jericho.
The Babylonians bring Zedekiah before Nebuchadnezzar in Riblah, where he faces judgment. Zedekiah’s sons are killed before his eyes, and then he is blinded and bound in chains, eventually being taken to Babylon.
The Babylonians proceed to destroy the temple and the royal palace, setting them on fire. They also break down the city walls and carry away the people who survived the siege, leaving only the poorest behind to work the land.