Jeremiah 12:7-17

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, 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).