ירמיהו, פרק ז׳, פסוק כ״ו

Spiritual decline is often marked by a deliberate turning away from divine guidance. The people's behavior is characterized by a stubborn refusal to accept correction and a continuous moral deterioration, completely ignoring the messages sent by God. The generation of that time entirely refused to listen [מצודת דוד], not even bothering to incline their ears to hear His words [ביאור שטיינזלץ].

This intense stubbornness is compared to a physical stiffness of the neck. Because the back of the neck represents the exact opposite of the face [מצודת ציון], the imagery paints a vivid picture of a people whose necks have become so rigid that they are incapable of turning their faces back toward God. It is much like an individual who intentionally refuses to turn and look at a friend to hear what they are saying [מצודת דוד].

Beyond simply ignoring God, the people actively worsened their behavior over time. The primary approach among commentators is that the practice of evil grew steadily, with later generations committing far more severe wrongs than their ancestors [מצודת דוד, ביאור שטיינזלץ]. This tragic process repeated itself in every era, as the majority of the nation became increasingly wicked compared to those who came before them. A clear historical example of this downward spiral can be seen in the later kings, Manasseh and Amon, who accumulated far more guilt and sin than the rulers who preceded them [רד״ק].