ירמיהו, פרק ט׳, פסוק י׳

God declares His direct involvement in the complete destruction of Jerusalem and the cities of Judah. While earlier mourning focused on the natural landscape, such as the mountains and desert pastures, the ruin of the cities is an active punishment carried out by God Himself [מלבי״ם].

The once-great cities will be reduced to mere mounds of stones and dirt. These piles are the shattered remains of houses and city walls that have been completely leveled to their foundations [רש״י, מצודת דוד, מצודת ציון, רד״ק, ביאור שטיינזלץ, צאינה וראינה]. In the absence of human life, these ruins will transform into a dwelling place for wild creatures [מצודת ציון, רד״ק].

There are different views on exactly what kind of animals will take over the rubble. Some identify them as a species of snake that naturally hides beneath piles of rocks [מצודת ציון, צאינה וראינה]. Others suggest they are small wild dogs that howl across desolate landscapes, or perhaps nocturnal birds whose cries pierce the darkness [ביאור שטיינזלץ]. Regardless of their exact identity, it is the nature of these creatures to make their homes among the ruins of forgotten places [מצודת דוד].

This absolute devastation extends beyond Jerusalem to encompass all the cities of Judah. They will be left entirely empty of people, as every last resident will be taken away into exile [מצודת דוד].