Jeremiah's work of prophesy
is a marvel of poetic expression
mixed with tragic history.

He wrote to a nation hopelessly in denial
about the doom upon them.

Judah's persistent sins will result in conquest
and eventual destruction by Babylon,
but no one wants to listen to the prophet's warnings.
Instead, false prophets have lied to the people,
promsing that all would be well.

With each lie, and each insistence on sin,
Jeremiah's consternation turns to frustration
and bitter sadness, mirroring the emotions of God.

This first volume, covering the first thirty-one chapters,
offers a full picture of the tragic state of Judah
while also occasionally mentioning
the promise of hope beyond the gloom...