יחזקאל, פרק כ״א, פסוק ט״ז

The preparation of a weapon of destruction is detailed with chilling precision, tracking its journey from a raw blade to a lethal, terrifying instrument ready for execution. God Himself draws the weapon from its sheath, handing it over to be scrubbed and polished [רד״ק]. Alternatively, it is the enemy who initiates this preparation [מצודת דוד]. Interestingly, this weapon may not have started as a sword at all; it is seen by some as a royal scepter, a symbol of rule, that has now been transformed into a sharp, gleaming blade of judgment [רש״י].

The meticulous polishing serves a highly practical purpose: to ensure a steady and comfortable grip. A smooth, flawless weapon is far more efficient for the executioner to handle [רש״י, ביאור שטיינזלץ, מצודת ציון]. Taking a distinct approach, one perspective notes that the polishing designed for the grip does not refer to the deadly blade itself, but rather to the hilt that the attacker holds [מלבי״ם].

Descriptions of sharpening and shining are repeated to highlight the sheer intensity of the approaching threat. The weapon is deliberately crafted to maximize casualties and strike deep fear into the hearts of the people [מצודת דוד, רד״ק]. Ultimately, the entire refining process is designed to make the executioner's grim task as easy as possible [ביאור שטיינזלץ]. The culmination of this preparation is the moment the weapon is placed directly into the hands of its designated killer—Nebuchadnezzar, King of Babylon—empowering him to carry out the devastating slaughter [רש״י, מצודת דוד].