Verses 7-17
Jeremiah 12:7-Esther : . The Desolation of Judah by her Neighbours, and their Future.— This isolated prophecy is most naturally referred to the events of 2 Kings 24:1 f., when Jehoiakim had revolted against Nebuchadrezzar ( c. 598). Yahweh laments His enforced abandonment of His house (a term here denoting the land rather than the Temple; cf. Hosea 8:1; Hosea 9:15), because Judah has challenged Him; now He sees her— a speckled bird— marked out for the attack of her neighbours. Nomad invaders (the “ shepherds” of Jeremiah 12:10) have laid her waste, so that Yahweh Himself grieves; none has learnt the lesson in time. Jeremiah 12:13 is difficult (read “ they shall be disappointed of their fruits” , cf. mg.) because it does not suit the context; it must refer to the men of Judah. In Jeremiah 12:14-Esther :, Yahweh says that He will exile these neighbours (Syrians, Moabites, Ammonites), but they shall be brought back if converted to Judah’ s religion (for the oath in Jeremiah 12:16; cf. Jeremiah 4:2).
Jeremiah 12:11 . unto me: to my sorrow; cf. mg. of Genesis 48:7 (Driver).
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