THEOSISJerome of Stridon
Who among the wise can comprehend these matters, who can proclaim the Word of the Lord regarding the devastation that befell the earth, scorched like a desolate wilderness where no one could pass? The Lord responded, stating that it was because they abandoned the law He provided, did not listen to His voice, and failed to follow His ways, choosing instead to pursue the evil inclinations of their hearts and the idols they learned from their ancestors. The prophet inquires if there is anyone in Jerusalem who is wise and capable of receiving the Word of God, able to declare the Lord’s intentions and elucidate why Judah became a barren wasteland, devoid of life after its destruction.
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The Lord clarifies that their downfall was due to their neglect of His commandments and their inclination toward the wickedness in their hearts. Thus, we must place our trust not in our own desires but in the Lord. For ‘the heart is deceitful above all things’ (Jeremiah 17:9), and from it arise evil thoughts (Matthew 15:19). It is noted that the pursuit of Baals—a name referring to the idols of Sidon—indicates the plural nature of their worship. Therefore, let us not follow the misguided paths of our forebears, but rather adhere to the truths of Scripture and the commands of God, who provides us with instruction.