ירמיהו, פרק י״א, פסוק ה׳

The ancient agreement made between God and Israel directly connects the observance of the commandments with the right to live in the land. The promise given to the forefathers was fully intended to be realized, yet its fulfillment relies entirely on the actions of the people. The purpose of this covenant is ultimately for the benefit of the nation, allowing God to fulfill and secure the oath He swore to their ancestors [מצודת דוד, מצודת ציון]. However, this oath is strictly conditional. If the people keep the terms of the covenant, they will remain securely in the land, but if they break it, exile is inevitable [מלבי״ם]. The land is famously known for its profound abundance, overflowing with milk and honey to the point where they literally drip from the sheer excess [מצודת דוד, מצודת ציון]. The people are reminded that they are currently experiencing this reality, sitting in that very promised and plentiful land at that exact moment [מצודת דוד].

In response to God's words, the prophet Jeremiah expresses his complete agreement. The primary approach among commentators is that this confirmation refers back to a prior warning, which states that anyone who fails to listen to the conditions of the covenant will be cursed. Jeremiah confirms this reality, agreeing that whoever breaks the agreement will indeed face this curse. By calling out to God, he offers a prayer, asking that God make this truth stand firm [רש״י, רד״ק, מצודת דוד]. In contrast, other scholars suggest that through his response, Jeremiah is personally taking the weight of the covenant upon himself [ביאור שטיינזלץ, מלבי״ם]. According to this view, the prophet declares that even if the entire nation abandons the agreement, he alone will continue to keep it. By doing so, the oath to give the land to Israel is not canceled. As long as even one descendant of the forefathers remains faithful and protects the covenant, the divine promise is preserved [מלבי״ם].