Jeremiah 31:2

Gi., Du. and Co. agree in considering Jeremiah 31:1 as, in their main substance, a genuine and early utterance of Jeremiah. The language suggests a date approximately that of ch. 3. Those of the Northern tribes who have survived the slaughter attendant upon their overthrow, and are in the "wilderness" of exile, shall see the Lord, and find favour in His eyes. Their hitherto restless wanderings shall have an end. They shall return to their old home. The verbs are in the "prophetic past." The prophet describes the reconciliation with Jehovah as already accomplished.

when I went to cause him to rest or, mg. when he went to find him rest; but better than either (as Jehovah appears still to be the speaker), I will go, that I may cause Israel to rest (so Dr.).