Jer 39:4-7 | TNotes | STEP | 39:4 The steep slopes of the Kidron Valley on the east side and the Ben-Hinnom Valley on the west and south sides of Jerusalem forced the Babylonian army to concentrate their men to the north. This made it possible for Zedekiah, his family, and his officials to slip out of the south end of the city, cross the Kidron Valley, and travel up and over the Mount of Olives. Although they made this move after nightfall , the noise of their departure alerted Babylonian sentries, and soldiers were soon chasing them.

‏ Jeremiah 39:4-7

39:4 ^a The steep slopes of the Kidron Valley on the east side and the Ben-Hinnom Valley on the west and south sides of Jerusalem forced the Babylonian army to concentrate their men to the north. This made it possible for Zedekiah, his family, and his officials to slip out of the south end of the city, cross the Kidron Valley, and travel up and over the Mount of Olives. Although they made this move after nightfall, the noise of their departure alerted Babylonian sentries, and soldiers were soon chasing them.
39:5 ^b Zedekiah and his royal party fled on foot, so it was not difficult for strong and healthy soldiers to capture the group near Jericho. The enemy troops then forced their captives to walk more than 200 miles north to Riblah, where King Nebuchadnezzar had his field headquarters.
39:6 ^c Zedekiah’s last sight was the slaughter of his sons and all the nobles of Judah. Their slaughter ensured that Zedekiah’s rule could never continue.
39:7 ^d After Nebuchadnezzar gouged out Zedekiah’s eyes, Zedekiah had to walk 400 miles to Babylon, blinded, in great pain, and with his arms in bronze chains.