ירמיהו, פרק ה׳, פסוק ל׳

A deep moral and leadership crisis grips the land, creating a harsh reality that sparks profound shock and disgust. The sheer scale of the evil triggers overwhelming astonishment. While this is broadly understood as a state of shock, it is also connected to a sense of total desolation [אברבנאל], and even impending destruction and ruin [רד״ק].

The primary approach among commentators is that the events unfolding are utterly repulsive and completely corrupt. Yet, some describe this corruption as a literal filth, comparing the situation to rotten, spoiled figs [רד״ק, אברבנאל]. Another perspective views this behavior as pure madness and a complete deviation from the proper path [רד״ק]. These are not merely abstract threats; these horrifying actions have actually taken place, cementing themselves as the daily reality [מצודת ציון].

The root of this shock and filth is a systemic corruption that has infected every layer of leadership [רש״י, אברבנאל]. The prophets spread lies, misleading the public with false promises of peace while actively encouraging theft. Following their lead, the priests, who serve as judges and leaders, dominate the public by leaning on the false words of those prophets. The greatest tragedy within this reality is that the people themselves love and desire these very lies and corruption. This widespread embrace of falsehood leaves a painful uncertainty about what the final outcome of such desolation and ugliness will ultimately be.