ירמיהו, פרק מ״ב, פסוק ב׳

The aftermath of a national disaster leaves a shattered community seeking guidance and divine mercy. The surviving remnant turns to Jeremiah with a desperate request to pray on their behalf, fully aware of their fragile reality following the destruction. They specifically address him with his prophetic title, which reflects a profound shift in their attitude. At this stage, the people have complete faith in him as a true prophet, having witnessed firsthand how his past warnings became reality and how God protected him from his enemies [חומת אנך].

They ask the prophet to extend kindness toward them and plead with God for their survival [מצודת דוד]. In their appeal, they respectfully associate God directly with Jeremiah, honoring his close personal connection to the Divine. Interestingly, Jeremiah will later respond by associating God directly with the people, demonstrating his deep humility and strong moral character [חומת אנך].

The survivors explain the urgent need for his prayers by pointing to their tragic condition. They are a mere fraction of what they used to be; the once-great kingdom of Judah, with its vast armies and leaders, has been reduced to a few small groups and a handful of residents [ביאור שטיינזלץ]. They urge the prophet to look at them, noting that he can see with his own eyes just how few of them remain [מצודת דוד].