In Jeremiah 43, Johanan and the remnant of the people of Judah, along with Jeremiah the prophet and Baruch, son of Neriah, decide to disobey the word of the Lord. They refuse to stay in the land of Judah as commanded by God through Jeremiah. Instead, they go to Egypt, seeking safety and provision, despite God’s warning that disaster will befall them there.
Upon arriving in Egypt, they settle in the city of Tahpanhes. Then, Jeremiah receives a message from the Lord, instructing him to take large stones and bury them in the clay pavement at the entrance of Pharaoh’s house in Tahpanhes. Jeremiah is told that Nebuchadnezzar, the king of Babylon, will come and set his throne on those stones, displaying his authority over Egypt.
Jeremiah declares the Lord’s words to the people, warning them of the impending conquest of Egypt by Babylon. He rebukes them for their disobedience and explains that their decision to go to Egypt will result in their destruction. The Lord will punish both Egypt and those who sought refuge there, including the remnant of Judah.
Despite Jeremiah’s warning, the people reject his message and accuse him of lying. They are determined to continue their idolatrous practices in Egypt, disregarding the consequences that will follow.