4:1–3 The prophets of Israel used props like the brick as illustrations for their points; these object lessons are usually called “symbolic actions” (1 Kin. 11:30; 22:11; 2 Kin. 13:17; Is. 20:2–4; Jer. 13:1–14; 19:1–10). In several places in Mesopotamia bricks or clay tablets have been found with maps or architectural drawings inscribed on them. The prophet depicts the siege that was laid against Jerusalem in 586 b.c. and ended with its destruction.