ירמיהו, פרק ל״ו, פסוק ג׳

Warnings of impending destruction are never meant as an inescapable fate. Instead, they serve as an urgent call for reflection and a change of direction. By gathering all the harsh prophecies and reading them aloud to the people at once, the threat feels immediate, as though the disaster has already struck. Hearing the full weight of these warnings is meant to shock the nation, forcing them to recognize the danger and awaken to the need for repentance [מצודת דוד].

A conceptual question arises when God expresses a sense of hope or uncertainty regarding how the people will react. Since the future is entirely known to God and He experiences no doubt, such phrasing might seem out of place. However, the scriptures speak in human terms. Because God granted humanity free will, He communicates in a way that highlights His deep desire for the people to choose the right path and return to Him [חומת אנך].

Ultimately, the true purpose behind God's warnings becomes clear. The intention behind any planned disaster is never the destruction itself. The sole aim of the threat is to inspire the people to change their ways. Once individuals abandon their bad paths, the underlying purpose of the warning is fulfilled. God will then forgive their sins, and the impending disaster will be completely canceled [מלבי״ם, מצודת דוד].