ירמיהו, פרק י״ח, פסוק ט״ז

The tragic consequences of the people's evil actions ultimately transform their once-glorious land into a shocking scene of ruins. The primary approach among commentators is that the people themselves are the direct cause of this devastation. Through their poor choices and bad ways, they actively bring about the destruction of their own land, turning it into a desolate wasteland.

The resulting destruction provokes a strong physical and emotional response from anyone who passes through the area. People will naturally purse their lips and whistle in disbelief when they see the ruins of a place they remember being so built up and important during its days of glory [רש״י, מצודת ציון]. This stunned reaction to the wasteland will not be short-lived; it will continue for a very long time [רד״ק, מצודת דוד].

A passerby will experience a deep sense of astonishment and confusion at the sheer emptiness of the area. Overcome by profound shock and a deep sense of pain, they will shake their heads in pure disbelief at the devastation before them.