ירמיהו, פרק מ״ב, פסוק י״ד

The people stand at a crossroads, exhausted by conflict and deprivation, looking toward Egypt as an ultimate sanctuary. Driven by a deep desire to escape their current hardships, they openly declare their intention to flee. This urge to relocate stems directly from their fear of an impending war with the Chaldeans if they choose to remain in their homeland [מצודת דוד]. They envision Egypt as a peaceful refuge where they will no longer have to witness the horrors of battle or live under the constant shadow of terror.

A key part of this dreamed-for tranquility is the absence of alarm. They long for a place where the piercing sound of the horn is silenced. These blasts traditionally served as a warning from watchmen signaling an approaching threat [רש״י], or as a general alarm sounded during the chaos of combat [מצודת דוד, ביאור שטיינזלץ]. Escaping this sound means escaping a constant, exhausting state of high alert.

Beyond physical safety from armies, the people are desperate for basic survival and stability. In their homeland of Judah, hunger has become a constant, unending reality. They believe that in Egypt, they will finally have enough food to eat. Their ultimate goal is not just a temporary stay, but to put down permanent roots. They want to settle securely, holding onto the belief that once they establish themselves there, they will never again face the trauma of exile [מצודת דוד, ביאור שטיינזלץ].