Jeremiah was a prophet of significant prominence in the scriptural accounts of the Book of Mormon, recognized for his prophecies during the time leading up to the Babylonian captivity of the kingdom of Judah. His ministry overlapped with that of Lehi and is particularly notable for his dire warnings concerning the destruction of Jerusalem and the necessity for the people to reform their ways. Despite his persistent efforts, Jeremiah faced considerable opposition and persecution, including being cast into prison for his pronouncements, symbolizing the broader rejection of prophets by the inhabitants of Jerusalem at the time (1 Ne. 7:14).
Jeremiah’s prophecies were considered essential enough to be included on the brass plates, a significant record obtained by Lehi’s family, which contained the writings of many prophets and was brought with them to the Promised Land (1 Ne. 5:13). Thus, his words were preserved and revered by the subsequent Nephite civilization. His predictions were later cited by the Nephite prophet Nephi, son of Helaman, particularly his testimony of the destruction of Jerusalem, which by Nephi’s time had already come to pass, thus fortifying the belief in the fulfillment of prophecies and in the expected coming of the Messiah (Hel. 8:20).
Beyond his immediate historical context, Jeremiah is also remembered for speaking of a new covenant, a theme of particular relevance to Nephite discussions about the future of their relationship with God (Jer. 31:33). His stark warnings, coupled with his messages of eventual hope and renewal, resonated with the Nephite prophets, who saw in Jeremiah’s ministry both a parallel to their own experiences and a testament to the persistence of God’s word across different dispensations and peoples.