The commentary interprets Jeremiah 1-25 as a dramatic text: In laments, accusations, and announcements of doom, a polyphonic message about the fall of Jerusalem and Judah emerges. The colorful and at times disturbing texts narrate a cultural trauma and try to develop an image of God that can explain history and at the same time convey hope for a better future. The female personification of Jerusalem provides an emotional and compassionate portrait of the people, giving voice to their experience of wartime violence and destruction. The persecuted prophet Jeremiah wrestles with God on behalf of the people.

Prof. Christl M. Maier teaches Old Testament at Philipps Universität Marburg, Germany.