If I declare it unto thee, &c.— The prophet had so often experienced the unsteadiness of the king's temper, his backwardness to follow good counsel, and his want of courage to support those who dared to give him proper advice, that he might very reasonably determine not to venture his life to serve a man who was in some measure incapable of being directed: and, although God had shewn the prophet what would be the effect of this advice if it were followed, yet it does not appear that he had commanded him to make it known to Zedekiah. See Lowth. Instead of Wilt thou not hearken? Houbigant reads, Thou wilt not hearken.
Related Commentaries of Jeremiah 38:15
Jeremiah 38:15
15 Then Jeremiah said unto Zedekiah, If I declare it unto thee, wilt thou not surely put me to death? and if I give thee counsel, wilt thou not hearken unto me?