Albert Barnes Commentary Jeremiah 16

In this prophecy (Jeremiah 16:1–18), the punishment of the people is set forth in even sterner terms than in the last. The whole land is likened to a desert covered with the bodies of the dead, who lie unlamented and uncared for; and the prophet himself is commanded to abstain from ordinary human practices so that his way of life, as well as his words, may warn the people of the greatness of the approaching calamity.

However, there is eventually to be a return from exile, but only after the nation's idolatry has been severely punished. The prophecy was probably written around the end of Jehoiakim’s reign.

As marriage was obligatory for the Jews, the prohibition of it to Jeremiah was a sign that the impending calamity was so great as to override all ordinary duties. Jeremiah was unmarried, but the force of the sign lay in its being an exception to the ordinary practice of the prophets.

In this place — The whole of Judea.

The times were such that for the present distress it was wise for all to abstain from marriage (1 Corinthians 7:26; Matthew 24:19).

Cut themselves ... make themselves bald - Both these practices were strictly forbidden in the Law (marginal references) probably as being pagan customs, but they seem to have remained in common use. By “making bald” is meant shaving a bare patch on the front of the head.

Tear themselves - Better as in the margin; “break broad for them.” It was customary upon the death of a relative to fast, and for the friends and neighbors after a decent delay to come and comfort the mourner, and urge food upon him (2 Samuel 12:17); food was also distributed at funerals to the mourners, and to the poor.

Cup of consolation - Marginal reference note.