7. Set thy face. An expression denoting steadfastness and fixedness of purpose (see Lev. 17:10; 20:3, 5, 6; 26:17; Eze. 15:7; 20:46). The steadfastness of purpose was to be “toward the siege of Jerusalem.” This was to be done during the periods the prophet lay on each side, figuratively bearing the iniquity of both Israel and Judah. The combination of these acts may be best understood in the light of God’s purposes at this time as revealed through Jeremiah. By means of various types and symbols, as well as plain prophetic utterances, God declared to the remnant left in Judah that their only hope of safety lay in yielding to the king of Babylon. They had gone too far in their iniquity to avert the doom upon Jerusalem and its inhabitants. They must bear their iniquity. Captivity would be their lot. This was directly opposite to the proud ambitions of the militarists. Supported by false prophets, they defiantly rejected Jeremiah’s appeal, and pursued their plans for resistance. Jeremiah himself was branded as a fifth columnist and a traitor. Ezekiel’s fellow captives shared the same hope. Instead of patiently accepting God’s plan of bearing their iniquity and getting at the root of all their trouble—their unsubdued hearts—they fondly hoped for the continuance of their beloved city and for their own speedy return to their native country.
Uncovered. A symbol of readiness for action.