The city of Jerusalem is pictured as a shepherdess that is supposed to be guarding her flock, but the question is asked of her, Where is the flock that was given you, your beautiful flock?
implying that she is unable to protect her sheep, the people.1 This does not suggest that the people are somehow innocent victims, but rather that the nation as a whole has failed in its covenant obligations and now faces judgment. The confidence they placed in formal temple worship and the belief that the throne of David would never be overthrown, were misplaced.
20 “Lift up your eyes and see those who come from the north. Where is the flock that was given you, your beautiful flock?