It is described as being driven
away from God’s mercy - a word used in reference to the direction and control of animals (see Genesis 31:18; Exodus 3:1; 1 Samuel 30:20; Psalm 80:1). God drove the people of Judah away like a man would do with animals. He once led and regulated their path like a caring shepherd (see Deuteronomy 8:2; Isaiah 42:16; Isaiah 48:21), bringing them to abundant green pastures and beside still waters (Psalm 23:2), but not anymore. Because of his wrath, his rod and staff do not bring comfort, but judgment (see Lamentations 3:1).
They have been driven away into darkness.
God’s control has driven them away from God's favour and blessing (see Amos 5:18). Here, darkness
points to circumstances of oppression and bondage (see also Isaiah 8:22).1
The writer understood that they have experienced what the Lord had warned them about. They have ignored God’s warnings and now the consequences of alienation and wrath have come upon them.2
2 he has driven and brought me into darkness without any light;