ירמיהו, פרק כ״ד, פסוק ח׳

A harsh prophetic vision uses the image of spoiled, inedible figs to illustrate the tragic fate awaiting King Zedekiah, his officials, and the people who remained in Judah or relocated to Egypt. Unlike those who were taken into exile in Babylon, this remaining group faces a future marked by distance, social rejection, and ultimate ruin. The imagery of the rotten fruit suggests that the survivors left behind will become hated and isolated from human society [מצודת דוד]. Alternatively, the metaphor points to a more absolute end, indicating that they will simply be discarded and destroyed [ביאור שטיינזלץ].

When God introduces this grim forecast, the phrasing serves a specific purpose. It clarifies to the prophet that these harsh words are not a product of his own mind or personal judgment. Rather, God Himself placed this difficult message in His mouth [מלבי״ם]. Other commentators view the phrasing as a direct divine guarantee. Just as the figs are completely spoiled, God promises that He will make the king and the remaining people exactly like them—utterly despised and cast aside [רד״ק, מצודת דוד].

The prophecy also specifically addresses those dwelling in the land of Egypt, though their exact historical identity is debated. Some suggest these are individuals who fled to Egypt out of fear of Nebuchadnezzar, or perhaps those who were forcibly taken there by the Egyptians along with the king, the son of Josiah [ביאור שטיינזלץ]. Another perspective identifies this group as the remnant of the people who traveled to Egypt much later under the leadership of Johanan son of Kareah, choosing to settle there in direct defiance of God's command [רד״ק, מצודת דוד].