Jeremiah 6:12Meaning & Commentary from the Church Fathers

Their homes will be given to others. He speaks this truth because He understands our deep connection to our possessions; even when we are away, we lament at the sight of our homes, fields, and spouses being taken by others. I will extend my hand. Do you perceive the conflict that is unfolding from above? Do you witness the flames of battle raging? Do you see heaven engaged in strife with them? Have you heard of the foes approaching from the north, and regarded them as mere men? Now listen, for He Himself has extended His hand.

Pour it out upon the child in the street and upon the gathering of the youths together, for a husband will be taken with his wife and an elderly man with another of advanced years. Their homes and land shall be given to others, along with their spouses. The prophet, moved by the Spirit, instructs the Chaldean who has arrived to unleash the wrath of the Lord upon the children, not sparing even the innocent; simultaneously, he reveals what fate awaits the assembly of young men who have taken up arms in defiance. For husband and wife will be seized, those who are nearest to one another will also endure captivity, alongside the elderly with their companions. Thus, old age is not the final stage; it pertains to those who are advanced in years, referred to in our language as aged and decrepit.