Jeremiah 4:16Meaning & Commentary from the Church Fathers

The speaker indicates that those who have listened numerous times have lost their recollection. He refers to a lack of fear and boldness, as they approached not in the manner typical of their adversaries, but rather as if entering into lands that had already been subdued.

Proclaim with clarity, declaring in Jerusalem that a foreign assembly has united and is approaching from a distant region, raising their voices in the cities of Judah. Announce to Jerusalem and its neighboring tribes the arrival of the Chaldeans and reveal the wicked scheme devised by them against the people.

Proclaim to the nations, Behold, tidings are heard in Jerusalem that watchmen arrive from a distant land, and they have raised their voices to the cities of Judah. As guardians of the fields, they have encircled her, for she has provoked My anger, declares the Lord. He desires all neighboring nations to grasp the resolve of God, so that through the fate of Jerusalem, they may find understanding. With a loud proclamation, they announce in Jerusalem that adversaries are advancing from afar, and the clamor of a menacing army rises against it, so that the city feels besieged and surrounded by fortifications, making it seem as though they are not foes, but rather vigilant watchmen of the lands and vineyards.

Just as those who seek to protect their fields and vineyards watch over them with utmost care and prevent any travelers from passing through, the Babylonians will besiege Jerusalem and will not permit anyone to flee. The Prophet and the fourth book of Kings reveal that the Babylonians constructed battlements of four-cornered stones around Jerusalem to trap its inhabitants. The Prophet declares, "Thou shalt suffer," because the Lord says, "Because thou hast neglected me" (Jer. 6:18). Your actions and pursuits have led to these consequences: this is your folly; it is painful because it has pierced your heart. You will face a punishment that reflects your arrogance, and you will reap the results of your deeds. After prophesying these events, the Prophet grieves for the people, expressing sorrow and lamentation, and he describes his inner anguish as akin to a mother mourning the loss of her children.