When Jeremiah had finished telling all the people all the words of the LORD their God
When Jeremiah had finished
This phrase marks the completion of a significant prophetic task. Jeremiah, a major prophet in the Old Testament, was often tasked with delivering difficult messages from God to the people of Judah. The Hebrew root for "finished" is "kalah," which implies bringing something to completion or fulfillment. This suggests that Jeremiah was faithful in delivering the entirety of God's message, emphasizing the importance of obedience and perseverance in fulfilling God's commands.

telling all the people
Jeremiah's audience was "all the people," indicating the inclusivity of God's message. The Hebrew word for "telling" is "dabar," which means to speak or declare. This highlights the role of the prophet as a mouthpiece for God, ensuring that His words reach everyone, regardless of their status or position. It underscores the universal nature of God's communication and the responsibility of His messengers to reach all corners of society.

all the words of the LORD
The repetition of "all" emphasizes the completeness and thoroughness of the message. Jeremiah did not withhold any part of God's message, reflecting the integrity and faithfulness required of a prophet. The phrase "words of the LORD" signifies divine authority. In Hebrew, "LORD" is "YHWH," the sacred name of God, which conveys His eternal and unchanging nature. This reminds us that the messages delivered by prophets are not their own but are divinely inspired and authoritative.

their God
This phrase personalizes the relationship between the people and God. "Their God" indicates a covenant relationship, reminding the people of Judah of their unique bond with YHWH. It serves as a reminder of God's faithfulness and the expectations He has for His chosen people. The possessive "their" underscores the personal and communal relationship that God desires with His people, calling them to loyalty and obedience.

then Azariah son of Hoshaiah
Azariah, whose name means "Yahweh has helped," is a significant figure in this narrative. The mention of his lineage, "son of Hoshaiah," roots him in a historical context, emphasizing the importance of family and heritage in ancient Israel. This highlights the cultural and societal structures of the time, where lineage often determined one's role and influence. Azariah's actions, however, contrast with the meaning of his name, as he opposes the divine message delivered by Jeremiah.

Johanan son of Kareah
Johanan, meaning "Yahweh is gracious," is another leader among the remnant of Judah. His identification as "son of Kareah" further establishes his identity and authority. Despite his name suggesting a recognition of God's grace, Johanan's resistance to Jeremiah's prophecy reveals a struggle between faith and fear, a common theme in the lives of the Israelites during times of crisis.

and all the arrogant men
The phrase "all the arrogant men" indicates a collective attitude of pride and self-reliance among the leaders and people. In Hebrew, the word for arrogant can imply a sense of presumption or insolence, often leading to a rejection of divine authority. This highlights a recurring biblical theme where human pride leads to disobedience and ultimately, downfall.

said to Jeremiah
Jeremiah, known as the "weeping prophet," is a central figure in this narrative. His role as God's messenger is met with resistance and hostility, reflecting the broader rejection of prophetic voices throughout Israel's history. This interaction underscores the tension between divine truth and human resistance.

'You are lying!
The accusation "You are lying!" is a direct challenge to Jeremiah's integrity and the authenticity of his message. This reflects a deep-seated mistrust and fear among the people, who are unwilling to accept a message that contradicts their desires. It also highlights the spiritual blindness that can result from pride and disobedience.

The LORD our God has not sent you
This phrase reveals a fundamental misunderstanding or denial of God's sovereignty and the role of His prophets. By claiming that "The LORD our God has not sent you," the people are essentially rejecting God's authority and choosing to follow their own path. This is a pivotal moment that illustrates the consequences of ignoring divine guidance.

to say, ‘You must not go to Egypt to reside there.’
The command "You must not go to Egypt to reside there" is significant in the historical context of Israel's relationship with Egypt. Egypt often represented a place of refuge but also a place of bondage and idolatry. God's instruction through Jeremiah was a call to trust in His provision and protection rather than seeking security in foreign alliances. This reflects a broader biblical theme of reliance on God rather than human solutions.

Rather
This word introduces a contrast or opposition to a previous statement or belief. In the context of Jeremiah 43, the people are rejecting the prophetic message delivered by Jeremiah. The use of "rather" indicates their preference to believe in a conspiracy theory over the truth. This reflects a common human tendency to resist uncomfortable truths, especially when they challenge personal desires or fears.

Baruch son of Neriah
Baruch was a scribe and faithful companion of the prophet Jeremiah. His role was significant in recording and delivering Jeremiah's prophecies. The mention of "son of Neriah" provides a historical anchor, identifying Baruch within his familial lineage, which was a common practice in ancient times to establish credibility and identity. Baruch's loyalty to Jeremiah and God’s message made him a target for those who opposed the prophetic word.

is inciting you
The Hebrew root for "inciting" suggests stirring up or provoking. In this context, the accusation is that Baruch is deliberately causing unrest or rebellion. This reflects the people's attempt to deflect responsibility for their own disobedience by blaming others. It is a classic example of scapegoating, where blame is shifted to avoid facing one's own culpability.

against us
This phrase indicates a perceived threat or opposition. The people felt that Baruch and Jeremiah were working against their interests. This reflects a deeper spiritual truth about the human condition: often, divine messages are seen as adversarial when they confront sin or call for repentance. The "us" signifies a collective resistance to God's will, highlighting the communal aspect of rebellion.

to hand us over to the Chaldeans
The Chaldeans, synonymous with the Babylonians, were the dominant power at the time. The fear of being handed over to them was real and justified, given their reputation for conquest and exile. This phrase underscores the people's fear of political and personal loss. Historically, the Chaldeans were known for their military prowess and their role in God's judgment against Judah, as prophesied by Jeremiah.

so that they may put us to death
The fear of death at the hands of the Chaldeans was a significant motivator for the people's resistance. This phrase highlights the ultimate consequence of disobedience and rebellion against God. In a broader theological sense, it serves as a reminder of the wages of sin, which is death, both physically and spiritually.

or exile us to Babylon
Exile was a common practice for conquering nations to control and assimilate subjugated peoples. Babylon, as the center of power, represented not just physical displacement but also cultural and spiritual challenges. For the Israelites, exile meant being removed from the Promised Land and the center of their worship, the Temple. This phrase captures the deep sense of loss and identity crisis that exile entailed, serving as a powerful metaphor for spiritual alienation from God.

So Johanan son of Kareah
Johanan, whose name means "Yahweh is gracious," was a leader among the remnant of Judah. His role is significant as he represents the human tendency to rely on one's own understanding rather than trusting in God's guidance. Historically, Johanan was a military leader, and his actions reflect the political and social turmoil of Judah after the Babylonian conquest. His decision-making process is a cautionary tale about the importance of seeking and adhering to divine wisdom.

all the commanders of the forces
The commanders were military leaders who held significant influence over the people. Their collective decision to disobey God highlights the impact of leadership on the spiritual direction of a community. In the Hebrew context, these commanders were responsible for the safety and security of the people, yet their failure to heed God's command demonstrates the danger of prioritizing human strategy over divine instruction.

and all the people
This phrase underscores the collective nature of the disobedience. It wasn't just the leaders who turned away from God's command, but the entire community. This reflects a broader societal issue where the people followed their leaders into disobedience, illustrating the biblical principle that a nation's spiritual health is often tied to its leaders' faithfulness to God.

disobeyed the voice of the LORD
The phrase "voice of the LORD" is a powerful reminder of God's direct communication with His people. In Hebrew, the word for "voice" (קוֹל, qol) often signifies not just spoken words but the authority and presence of God. Disobedience to God's voice is a recurring theme in Scripture, emphasizing the consequences of ignoring divine guidance. This disobedience led to further hardship for the people of Judah, serving as a warning of the spiritual and practical repercussions of turning away from God's commands.

to stay in the land of Judah
God's command was clear: the people were to remain in Judah despite their fears and uncertainties. The land of Judah was not just a physical location but a symbol of God's promise and provision. Historically, staying in the land represented trust in God's protection and faithfulness. The decision to leave, therefore, was not merely a geographical move but a spiritual departure from reliance on God. This highlights the importance of trusting God's plans, even when they seem contrary to human logic or desire.

Instead
This word marks a contrast to the expected or commanded action. In the context of Jeremiah 43, God had instructed the remnant of Judah to remain in the land and not to flee to Egypt. The use of "instead" highlights their disobedience and lack of trust in God's promise of protection. This sets the stage for understanding the consequences of not following divine guidance.

Johanan son of Kareah
Johanan was a military leader among the remnant of Judah. His name means "Yahweh is gracious," which is ironic given his actions that reflect a lack of faith in God's grace and protection. Johanan's leadership in this context is pivotal, as he influences the remnant to act against God's command, showcasing the impact of leadership on communal faith and obedience.

all the commanders of the armies
This phrase indicates a collective decision by the military leaders, not just Johanan. It underscores the unity in their decision to disobey God, reflecting a broader issue of national disobedience and fear. The commanders, who should have been protectors of the people, instead lead them into a path contrary to God's will, highlighting the theme of misplaced trust in human strength over divine guidance.

took the whole remnant of Judah
The "remnant" refers to those who survived the Babylonian conquest and exile. This group was precious in God's sight, representing hope for the future of Israel. The decision to "take" them implies a forceful or authoritative action, suggesting that the people may not have had much choice in the matter. This reflects the tension between human authority and divine sovereignty.

who had returned from all the nations
This phrase emphasizes the gathering of the Jewish people from various places of exile. It signifies a moment of potential restoration and fulfillment of God's promises. However, their return is marred by the decision to flee to Egypt, which symbolizes a return to bondage and a rejection of God's plan for their restoration in the land of Judah.

to which they had been scattered
The scattering of the people was a result of God's judgment due to their disobedience. This scattering was prophesied as a consequence of their idolatry and unfaithfulness. The return from scattering should have been a time of renewal and recommitment to God, yet their actions show a continued pattern of distrust and rebellion.

to dwell for a while in the land of Judah
The phrase "dwell for a while" suggests a temporary situation, indicating that the people did not intend to fully commit to resettling in Judah. This reflects a lack of faith in God's promise to establish them in the land. Their transient mindset reveals a deeper spiritual issue of instability and unwillingness to trust in God's long-term plans for them.

the men, the women, the children
This phrase highlights the comprehensive nature of the group being referred to. In the Hebrew context, the mention of men, women, and children signifies the entirety of the community, emphasizing that no one was exempt from the events unfolding. This reflects the communal nature of ancient Israelite society, where families and communities were tightly knit, and decisions or events affected everyone collectively. The inclusion of all demographics underscores the gravity of the situation and the collective experience of the people.

the king’s daughters
The mention of "the king’s daughters" indicates the presence of royal family members among the group. This is significant because it shows that even those of royal lineage were not spared from the consequences of the Babylonian conquest. Historically, royal family members were often taken captive to prevent any future claims to the throne and to ensure the subjugation of the conquered people. This phrase serves as a reminder of the complete overthrow of Judah's political structure and the humbling of its royal house.

everyone whom Nebuzaradan the captain of the guard had left
Nebuzaradan was a high-ranking Babylonian official, and his role as "the captain of the guard" indicates his authority and responsibility in overseeing the affairs of the conquered territories. The phrase "had left" suggests a deliberate decision to leave certain individuals behind, possibly to maintain some semblance of order or to serve as a remnant of the local population. This reflects the Babylonian strategy of leaving a manageable group to tend to the land and prevent total desolation.

with Gedaliah son of Ahikam, the son of Shaphan
Gedaliah was appointed as governor over the remnant in Judah by the Babylonians. His lineage, being the son of Ahikam and grandson of Shaphan, is significant because it connects him to a family known for their loyalty to the reforms of King Josiah and their support of the prophet Jeremiah. This highlights the attempt to establish a leadership that was sympathetic to both the Babylonian rulers and the prophetic voice of Jeremiah, aiming for stability and continuity in a time of upheaval.

and Jeremiah the prophet
Jeremiah's presence among the group is crucial. As a prophet, he had been a vocal advocate for submission to Babylon as God's instrument of judgment. His inclusion here signifies the continuation of his prophetic ministry and the fulfillment of his warnings. Jeremiah's role as a spiritual leader and his unwavering commitment to God's message provide hope and guidance to the people during this period of uncertainty and transition.

and Baruch son of Neriah
Baruch, the scribe and faithful companion of Jeremiah, is mentioned here, underscoring his importance in the preservation and dissemination of Jeremiah's prophecies. His role as a scribe was vital in recording the words of Jeremiah, ensuring that the prophetic messages were documented for future generations. Baruch's loyalty and service highlight the importance of supporting roles in the fulfillment of God's plans, demonstrating that every contribution, whether prominent or behind the scenes, is significant in the divine narrative.

So they entered the land of Egypt
This phrase marks a significant moment of disobedience and lack of faith among the remnant of Judah. The Hebrew root for "entered" (בּוֹא, bo) often implies a deliberate action, suggesting that this was a conscious decision against divine instruction. Egypt, historically a place of bondage for the Israelites, symbolizes a return to old dependencies and a lack of trust in God's provision. This decision reflects a broader theme in Scripture where God's people struggle with faithfulness, often seeking security in worldly powers rather than in God.

because they did not obey the voice of the LORD
The phrase underscores the central issue of disobedience. The Hebrew word for "obey" (שָׁמַע, shama) means to hear or listen with the intent to act. The Israelites' failure to "obey the voice of the LORD" highlights a recurring biblical theme of hearing versus heeding. This disobedience is not merely a failure to follow instructions but a deeper spiritual rebellion against God's authority and wisdom. It serves as a cautionary tale for believers to prioritize divine guidance over human reasoning.

And they went as far as Tahpanhes
Tahpanhes, an ancient city in the northeastern region of Egypt, is significant both historically and symbolically. Archaeological findings, such as the "House of the Jew's Daughter," suggest a Jewish presence in the area, corroborating biblical accounts. The journey to Tahpanhes represents a physical and spiritual departure from God's will. It is a poignant reminder of the consequences of straying from God's path, as Tahpanhes becomes a place of exile rather than refuge. This serves as a metaphor for the spiritual desolation that follows disobedience, urging believers to remain steadfast in their faith and trust in God's promises.

Then the word of the LORD
This phrase signifies the divine communication that Jeremiah, as a prophet, receives directly from God. In Hebrew, "word" is "dabar," which implies not just a spoken word but an active, dynamic force that accomplishes God's will. This underscores the authority and power of God's message, reminding us that Scripture is not merely historical text but a living, active revelation. The phrase emphasizes the continuity of God's communication with His people, even in times of rebellion and exile.

came to Jeremiah
Jeremiah, known as the "weeping prophet," is a central figure in the Old Testament, chosen by God to deliver His messages to the people of Judah. The Hebrew root for "came" is "hayah," which can mean "to happen" or "to come to pass," indicating that this is a divinely orchestrated event. Jeremiah's role as a prophet is not self-appointed; it is a calling from God, highlighting the importance of divine election and obedience in the life of a believer.

at Tahpanhes
Tahpanhes was an ancient city in Egypt, known today as Tell Defenneh. Its mention here is significant because it represents a place of refuge for the remnant of Judah who fled there after the fall of Jerusalem. Archaeological evidence supports its existence as a bustling city during Jeremiah's time. The location underscores the theme of disobedience, as the people of Judah were instructed by God to remain in their land, yet they sought safety in Egypt. This serves as a reminder of the consequences of not trusting in God's promises and plans, and it highlights the historical reality of the biblical narrative.

Take some large stones
In this phrase, the Hebrew word for "take" is "laqach," which implies an action of seizing or grasping with intention. The instruction to take "large stones" is significant, as stones in biblical times were often used as memorials or markers of significant events (e.g., Joshua 4:20-24). The size of the stones suggests permanence and visibility, indicating that the action Jeremiah is about to perform is meant to be a lasting testimony.

and hide them
The Hebrew word for "hide" is "taman," which means to conceal or bury. This act of hiding the stones is symbolic, representing a hidden truth or a prophetic act that will later be revealed. In the context of Jeremiah's ministry, it signifies the hidden plans of God that will eventually come to light, emphasizing the theme of divine sovereignty and the unfolding of God's will in His timing.

in the mortar
The term "mortar" refers to the binding material used in construction, often made of clay or lime. In ancient Near Eastern architecture, mortar was essential for the stability and durability of structures. By hiding the stones in the mortar, Jeremiah is embedding the prophetic message within the very fabric of the building, symbolizing how God's word is foundational and integral to the unfolding of history.

in the brick pavement
The "brick pavement" refers to a paved area, likely part of a significant structure or courtyard. Bricks were a common building material in ancient Egypt, where this event takes place. The use of brick pavement suggests a place of importance and permanence. This setting underscores the gravity of the prophecy, as it is placed in a location that is both public and enduring, ensuring that the message will be witnessed by many.

at the entrance to Pharaoh’s palace
The "entrance to Pharaoh’s palace" is a location of political and cultural significance. Pharaoh's palace represents the seat of power in Egypt, a nation often seen as a symbol of worldly strength and opposition to God's people. By performing this prophetic act at the entrance, Jeremiah is making a bold statement about the impending judgment and the futility of relying on earthly powers instead of God. It serves as a reminder of God's ultimate authority over all nations and rulers.

in Tahpanhes
Tahpanhes was a city in Egypt, known as a place where many Jews fled after the fall of Jerusalem. Its mention here is significant because it represents a place of refuge that will not provide the safety the people seek. The historical context of Tahpanhes as a location of Jewish exile highlights the theme of misplaced trust and the consequences of disobedience to God's commands. It serves as a poignant reminder of the need for faithfulness and reliance on God alone.

Then say to them
This phrase indicates a direct command from God to the prophet Jeremiah. The Hebrew root for "say" is "אָמַר" (amar), which is often used in the context of divine communication. This highlights the authority and urgency of the message. Jeremiah, as a prophet, serves as the mouthpiece of God, emphasizing the importance of obedience to God's instructions.

this is what the LORD of Hosts
The title "LORD of Hosts" (YHWH Sabaoth) underscores God's supreme authority and power over all heavenly and earthly armies. It is a reminder of His sovereignty and ability to orchestrate events according to His divine will. This title reassures the faithful of God's ultimate control, even amidst chaos and uncertainty.

the God of Israel
This phrase reaffirms the covenant relationship between God and the nation of Israel. Despite Israel's disobedience, God remains their God, faithful to His promises. It serves as a reminder of the special bond and the responsibilities that come with being God's chosen people.

I will send for My servant Nebuchadnezzar
Referring to Nebuchadnezzar as "My servant" is significant. The Hebrew word for "servant" is "עֶבֶד" (eved), which can denote a range of roles from a slave to a high-ranking official. Here, it illustrates that even a pagan king like Nebuchadnezzar is under God's control and can be used to fulfill His purposes. This challenges the perception of power, showing that God can use anyone to accomplish His divine plans.

king of Babylon
Babylon was a dominant empire during Jeremiah's time, known for its military might and cultural influence. The mention of Babylon serves as a historical anchor, reminding the audience of the geopolitical realities of the era. It also highlights the impending judgment and the instrument through which God will discipline His people.

I will set his throne over these stones that I have hidden
The imagery of setting a throne over hidden stones suggests the establishment of authority and dominion. The stones, possibly a symbolic or literal foundation, represent the certainty and permanence of God's decree. This act signifies the transfer of power and the fulfillment of prophecy, as God orchestrates the rise and fall of nations.

and he will spread his royal canopy over them
The "royal canopy" symbolizes sovereignty and protection. In ancient Near Eastern culture, a canopy was often used in royal and ceremonial contexts, signifying the presence and authority of the king. This phrase indicates Nebuchadnezzar's dominance and the fulfillment of God's judgment, yet it also serves as a reminder of God's overarching plan and the temporary nature of earthly power.

He will come and attack the land of Egypt
This phrase refers to the prophecy concerning Nebuchadnezzar, the king of Babylon, who would invade Egypt. The historical context is crucial here, as Egypt was a significant power in the ancient Near East, often seen as a place of refuge. The Hebrew root for "attack" (בּוֹא, bo) implies a forceful entry or invasion, indicating the certainty and intensity of the coming judgment. This serves as a reminder of God's sovereignty over nations and His ability to use even pagan kings to fulfill His divine purposes.

bringing death to those destined for death
The repetition of the word "destined" (מִשְׁפָּט, mishpat) in Hebrew emphasizes the inevitability of God's judgment. The phrase underscores the concept of divine justice, where each person receives their due according to God's righteous decree. It is a sobering reminder of the consequences of disobedience and the seriousness of turning away from God's commands.

captivity to those destined for captivity
This part of the verse highlights the theme of exile, a recurring motif in the prophetic literature. The Hebrew word for "captivity" (שְׁבִי, shevi) conveys the idea of being taken away from one's homeland, a fate that befell many Israelites. It serves as a warning against relying on worldly powers for security instead of trusting in God. The historical context of the Babylonian exile provides a backdrop for understanding the gravity of this pronouncement.

and the sword to those destined for the sword
The "sword" (חֶרֶב, cherev) symbolizes warfare and destruction. In the ancient world, the sword was a common instrument of judgment and a representation of military might. This phrase reinforces the message that God's judgment is comprehensive and unavoidable. It calls believers to reflect on the spiritual battles they face and the importance of aligning with God's will to avoid spiritual defeat.

I will set fire to the temples of the gods of Egypt
This phrase signifies God's judgment against the idolatry of Egypt. The Hebrew word for "set fire" (שָׂרַף, saraph) implies a consuming destruction, indicating the totality of God's judgment. The "temples of the gods of Egypt" were not only religious centers but also symbols of Egypt's power and pride. Historically, Egypt was known for its pantheon of gods, and the destruction of these temples would symbolize the impotence of these deities before the God of Israel. This act serves as a reminder of the first commandment, emphasizing the exclusivity of worship due to Yahweh alone.

he will burn them and take them captive
The "he" refers to Nebuchadnezzar, the king of Babylon, whom God uses as an instrument of His judgment. The dual action of burning and taking captive underscores the completeness of the conquest. The Hebrew word for "burn" (שָׂרַף, saraph) is repeated, emphasizing the thoroughness of the destruction. "Take them captive" (שָׁבָה, shavah) suggests not only the physical removal of idols but also the spiritual defeat of Egypt's gods. This reflects the biblical theme that earthly powers and false gods are ultimately subject to the sovereignty of the one true God.

He will wrap himself in the land of Egypt as a shepherd wraps himself in his garment
This metaphor illustrates the ease and authority with which Nebuchadnezzar will conquer Egypt. The imagery of a shepherd (רֹעֶה, ro'eh) wrapping himself in his garment conveys a sense of ownership and control. In ancient Near Eastern culture, a shepherd was a common metaphor for a king or leader, suggesting care and dominion. The phrase implies that just as a shepherd is intimately familiar with his garment, so will Nebuchadnezzar be with Egypt, moving through it with confidence and authority. This also reflects God's sovereignty in using earthly rulers to accomplish His divine purposes.

and he will depart from there unscathed
The word "unscathed" (שָׁלוֹם, shalom) in Hebrew conveys a sense of peace and completeness. Despite the turmoil and destruction he brings, Nebuchadnezzar will leave Egypt without harm, indicating the protection and success granted by God. This outcome highlights the futility of resisting God's will and serves as a warning to those who trust in their own strength or in false gods. It also reassures the faithful that God's plans will prevail, and His chosen instruments will accomplish their tasks without hindrance. This reflects the biblical principle that God's purposes are unstoppable and His protection is assured for those He chooses to use.

He will demolish
The phrase "He will demolish" indicates a decisive and forceful action. In the Hebrew text, the verb used here is "שָׁבַר" (shabar), which means to break or shatter. This conveys not just a physical destruction but a symbolic act of divine judgment against idolatry. The act of demolishing signifies God's power over false gods and His intolerance of idolatry, reminding believers of the importance of worshiping the one true God.

the sacred pillars
"Sacred pillars" refers to the standing stones or obelisks that were often erected in ancient times as objects of worship or as symbols of deities. In the context of Egypt, these pillars were likely associated with sun worship. The Hebrew word "מַצֵּבָה" (matzevah) is used, which can denote a monument or pillar. The destruction of these pillars symbolizes the dismantling of false religious systems and the futility of worshiping created things rather than the Creator.

of the temple of the sun
The "temple of the sun" refers to a specific place of worship dedicated to the sun god, likely the Egyptian god Ra or Amun-Ra. Sun worship was central to Egyptian religion, and temples dedicated to the sun were significant cultural and religious centers. The Hebrew term "בֵּית שֶׁמֶשׁ" (beth shemesh) literally means "house of the sun." This highlights the confrontation between the God of Israel and the gods of Egypt, emphasizing that the Lord is sovereign over all creation, including the sun.

in the land of Egypt
The phrase "in the land of Egypt" situates this prophecy geographically and historically. Egypt was a powerful nation with a rich religious tradition, often seen as a symbol of worldly power and idolatry in the Bible. The mention of Egypt serves as a reminder of God's past deliverance of Israel from Egyptian bondage and His ongoing authority over all nations.

and he will burn down
"Burn down" indicates a complete and consuming destruction. The Hebrew verb "שָׂרַף" (saraph) means to burn or consume with fire. Fire is often used in Scripture as a symbol of purification and judgment. This act of burning signifies the total eradication of idolatrous practices and the cleansing of the land from false worship.

the temples of the gods of Egypt
"The temples of the gods of Egypt" refers to the various places of worship dedicated to the pantheon of Egyptian deities. These temples were centers of religious, political, and social life. The destruction of these temples signifies the impotence of these gods in the face of the true God. It serves as a powerful reminder that no false god can stand against the Lord, and it calls believers to place their trust solely in Him.