Jeremiah 13:20-27

Jerusalem's Shame. This prophecy, as perhaps others in this chapter, would suit the position of affairs under Jehoiakim, after Carchemish (605). Jerusalem is asked concerning the welfare of her people, in the day of invasion by the foe from the north (Jeremiah 4:6, etc.: here of the Babylonians). Jeremiah 13:21 should read, When he shall set over thee as head those whom thou hast thyself taught to be friends unto thee, i.e. those who have been courted as friends are now become masters. Her anguish and shame are merited; a change seems hopeless, since habit has become second nature (Jeremiah 13:23). Ruin is inevitable (Jeremiah 13:24 mg.). The shameful exposure of her nakedness (Jeremiah 13:26 mg.) is an appropriate punishment of her sensuality (Nahum 3:5; cf. Isaiah 47:3; Ezekiel 16:37). Jeremiah 13:27 reads, After how long time yet wilt thou not be cleansed? For the force of neighings, see Jeremiah 5:8.