יחזקאל, פרק י״ד, פסוק י״ז

A devastating judgment falls upon a sinful land, taking the form of total war. A foreign military force sweeps through the nation, leaving behind a trail of destruction that wipes out both humans and animals. This invading sword represents entire armies and troops marching in to wage battle, rather than a single weapon [רש״י, מצודת דוד, ביאור שטיינזלץ].

God's decree of invasion is accompanied by an active declaration. One approach explains that this dual action of bringing war and speaking serves to strengthen the message, highlighting that the judgment is an absolute decree and a clear advance warning [מצודת דוד, ביאור שטיינזלץ].

However, a deeper question arises as to why the act of speaking and warning is highlighted specifically in the context of war, rather than with other devastating events like disease or wild beasts. The explanation is not that God sends a prophet specifically to warn the nation, as basic human sense should be enough to keep people away from severe sins. Instead, the difference lies in the natural progression of the event. Unlike a plague or an animal attack that strikes suddenly and without notice, war comes with early signs. Before the actual fighting breaks out, travelers spread rumors of a foreign king making his way toward the region. These everyday rumors serve as an early warning, and they are considered as though God Himself is speaking to the people, just as the invading army is the very instrument God uses to carry out His destruction [רד״ק].