ירמיהו, פרק י״ד, פסוק ו׳

The devastating impact of a severe drought reaches far beyond human settlements, bringing profound suffering to the creatures of the wild. This widespread devastation is not a random natural disaster but a deliberate punishment from God for the sins of the people, intended to serve as a powerful warning [רד״ק, ביאור שטיינזלץ]. Driven by hunger, the roaming wild donkeys of the desert desperately seek relief. The primary approach among commentators is that these animals climb to high places, such as mountains or hills, to scan the distance in hopes of spotting grazing land [מצודת דוד, רד״ק, מלבי״ם]. Alternatively, they may be searching near dry riverbeds and streams [רש״י].

Out of sheer distress, the animals gasp for air. This action is understood in several ways. It might be the heavy panting that comes from running frantically in search of food [מצודת דוד], or a deliberate attempt to sniff the wind from a high vantage point to catch the faint scent of moisture or vegetation [ביאור שטיינזלץ]. Another perspective suggests a deeper tragedy. With absolutely no grass available, the air itself is the only thing left for them to consume and draw any fleeting comfort from [רד״ק, מלבי״ם]. In their heavy breathing, they are compared to jackals, creatures known for having large lungs and naturally inhaling massive amounts of air [מצודת דוד, רד״ק, ביאור שטיינזלץ]. Another view suggests the comparison is instead to a species of snake [מצודת ציון].

Ultimately, their eyes fail them, reflecting the exhaustion of prolonged, hopeless expectation. They stare into the distance, waiting in vain for food, only to meet bitter disappointment [מצודת דוד, רד״ק, ביאור שטיינזלץ]. The drought is so absolute that not a single plant remains [מלבי״ם]. The stark reality of desert animals starving while other nations enjoy abundance highlights God's direct involvement. It is a vivid demonstration designed to signal the specific punishment falling upon the Israelites [רד״ק].