The book of Jeremiah was written over an extended period, likely spanning the late 7th century BCE to the early 6th century BCE. Jeremiah began his prophetic ministry around 627 BCE, during the reign of King Josiah of Judah, and continued through the subsequent reigns of several kings, including the tumultuous period leading up to and following the Babylonian destruction of Jerusalem in 586 BCE. The book reflects this historical context, containing prophecies, narratives, and messages addressing the political and spiritual crises of the time. Scholars believe the text underwent compilation and editing, possibly completed during or after the Babylonian exile.