1
The army of the Kasdim surrounded Yerushalayim and entered the city.
2
The people were seized and led away for exile.
3
The city that had been protected by the prayers of the prophets was now exposed because the measure of rebellion had reached its appointed consequence.
4
Yirmeyahu remained with the people and shared their affliction rather than separating himself from them.
5
Baruk looked upon the ruin and cried out over the sins by which the mercy of Elohim had been resisted.
6
He said that Yerushalayim had been handed into the hands of enemies because the people had not remained faithful.
7
The enemy possessed the city only because Yahuah allowed it; their victory was not proof that their gods were greater.
8
Yirmeyahu accompanied the captives on the road toward Bavel.
9
Baruk, however, was separated from them and remained in the region of Yerushalayim.
10
He went outside the city and sat in mourning.
11
He would remain there until the Word opened the next stage of restoration.
12
The narrative leaves Avimelekh asleep beyond the catastrophe, preserving both him and the fresh figs as a sign that the exile would not be the end.