Jeremiah 13:20Meaning & Commentary from the Church Fathers

Raise your gaze, O Jerusalem. This addresses the city directly; it refers to the future as if it is unfolding in the present; this message is a constant echo.

All of Judah has been betrayed, resulting in a complete severance. Raise your eyes and observe those approaching from the north: where is the flock you entrusted to us, the sheep of your splendor? The prophet addresses the tribe of Judah, proclaiming the imminent captivity that awaits them, stating that Judah will be entirely taken into bondage. In the times of Jehoiakim and Jechoniah, only a portion of Israel was captured, but the Babylonian exile engulfed the entire nation, leaving the land of Judah ravaged, pillaged, and desolate. Thus, the prophet calls out to the assembly, asking, "Where is the flock that was entrusted to you? Where is that multitude which in the days of David was numbered in the thousands, following you like a great herd?"

Lift your gaze and observe those approaching from the north: where is the flock entrusted to you, your splendid sheep? What will you say when He comes to visit you? For you have instructed them against yourself and taught them to turn against you. The residents of Jerusalem are urged to look up and see the Chaldeans advancing from the north, with a direct inquiry posed to the city: Where is the flock that was bestowed upon you, your magnificent herd? Where are the people given to you by God, that vast and glorious assembly that seemed to have gathered from all corners?

Where is the congregation entrusted to you, the sheep of your splendor? In other words, where is the large gathering of your people?