Albert Barnes Commentary Jeremiah 6:16

"Thus saith Jehovah, Stand ye in the ways and see, and ask for the old paths, where is the good way; and walk therein, and ye shall find rest for your souls: but they said, We will not walk [therein]." — Jeremiah 6:16 (ASV)

The sense is: God’s prophet has declared that a great national calamity is near. Make inquiries, stand in the ways, and ask the passersby. Your country was once prosperous and blessed. Try to learn what were the paths trodden in those days which led your ancestors to happiness. Choose them, and walk earnestly therein, and find thereby rest for your souls.

The Christian fathers often contrast Christ, the one good way, with the old tracks—many in number and narrow to walk in—which are the Law and the prophets.