ירמיהו, פרק כ״ו, פסוק י״ז

At a critical moment during a tense trial, measured leadership steps forward to protect a prophet's life and calm an angry mob. Righteous elders of the land rise to the occasion [רד״ק], seeking to silence the chaotic crowd by presenting a historical precedent that would spare Jeremiah from a death sentence [מצודת דוד, מלבי״ם]. They want to make it clear that executing Jeremiah out of a fear that his harsh prophecies will cause disaster is a grave mistake.

To persuade the people, the elders recall a similar event from the days of King Hezekiah. During that time, the prophet Micah delivered a nearly identical warning of destruction, declaring that Zion would be plowed like a field. The elders emphasize that Micah was not put to death for delivering this harsh message. Instead, the people listened, repented, and prayed to God. Because of their sincere response, the terrible decree was canceled.

The message from the elders is clear and urgent. Executing Jeremiah will not prevent the destruction he foretold. On the contrary, killing him will only make matters worse, adding a terrible sin to the souls of the people [מלבי״ם].