In the ancient world, people showed grief by tearing their clothes (Genesis 37:34; 2 Samuel 3:31; 2 Kings 19:1).
rend your hearts: In Hebrew culture, the heart represents thought, faith, and will. God wanted people to repent inwardly, not just outwardly. This meant changing their mindset, priorities, and attitudes. They could only do this by returning to the Lord.
For He is gracious and compassionate … abounding in loving devotion: The people's only hope was in the Lord's merciful nature (see also Exodus 34:6–7; Numbers 14:18; Nehemiah 9:17; Psalms 86:15; 103:8; 145:8; Jonah 4:2). God wants to forgive and restore his people, not punish them.