דברים, פרק כ״ח, פסוק נ׳

A devastating portrait of a future enemy attacking the Israelites reveals a force defined by absolute cruelty and emotional numbness. This invading nation operates without a trace of basic human compassion. Historically, this ruthless power is identified by some as the Roman Empire [חזקוני].

The attackers are defined by a hardened character that is clearly visible in their facial features [רש ר הירש]. Their expressions remain completely sealed, never shifting to reveal any sign of shame, pity, or forgiveness. They possess a constant, relentless drive, and their malice will not cease until their desire for destruction is fully satisfied [ביאור יש״ר].

Driven by this emotional emptiness, the attackers act with total ruthlessness, sparing absolutely no one [בכור שור, ביאור שטיינזלץ]. Ordinarily, the natural vulnerability of the elderly and small children wandering the streets would awaken a sense of mercy in an advancing army. However, this enemy will not hesitate to destroy even the most defenseless members of society [ביאור יש״ר]. While this brutality is generally understood as an attack on vulnerable civilians, an alternative perspective suggests a different context for this lack of pity. In this view, the merciless treatment of the old and the young is specifically directed at those who take up arms and fight within the ranks of the Israelite army, rather than innocent bystanders [העמק דבר].