1
Avimelekh and Baruk prayed over the wonder of the preserved figs.
2
Baruk blessed Yahuah for revealing that life can be preserved beyond what Adam considers possible.
3
He interpreted the fresh figs as a sign that the dead can be raised and that the scattered people can be restored.
4
He prayed for a means to communicate the sign to Yirmeyahu in Bavel.
5
He asked that the prophet and the exiles not remain without this testimony of hope.
6
While Baruk prayed, a messenger of Yahuah appeared.
7
The messenger told him that the matter should be written in a letter to Yirmeyahu.
8
Baruk gathered writing materials and prepared the message.
9
His letter told Yirmeyahu that Avimelekh had awakened after the long sleep and that the figs remained fresh.
10
Baruk said that this wonder showed that the promise of restoration was not empty.
11
He told Yirmeyahu to prepare the people for return.
12
The messenger added instructions concerning those who had joined themselves to foreign wives and foreign worship in Bavel.
13
A period of separation and purification was to precede the return to Yerushalayim.
14
Those who refused to separate from the conditions of Bavel would not enter the restored city.
15
Baruk bound the letter securely.
16
He looked for a messenger capable of carrying it across the great distance.
17
An eagle appeared as the appointed carrier.
18
Baruk addressed the bird as king among the flying creatures and entrusted the letter to it.
19
He asked that it carry the good report to Yirmeyahu and the people.
20
He also placed fresh figs from Avimelekh's basket with the message as living proof of the miracle.
21
The eagle received the burden.
22
Baruk sent it in shalom toward Bavel.
23
The bird rose and traveled toward the place of exile.
24
Baruk and Avimelekh remained behind, waiting for the answer.