יחזקאל, פרק כ״ה, פסוק ב׳

After concluding the heavy prophecies detailing the destruction of the land of Israel, a new prophetic era begins. The focus shifts toward the neighboring nations who celebrated Israel's downfall, with the very first message directed at the Ammonites [רד״ק].

The Ammonites are addressed first because of their active role in Jerusalem's collapse. They did not merely watch from the sidelines; they actively encouraged Nebuchadnezzar to attack and conquer the city. Once the Temple was ruined, the land devastated, and the people of Judah sent into exile, the Ammonites rejoiced with great celebration. Because of their cruel joy, they are met with a strict measure-for-measure punishment. Their own cities, including their capital, will be reduced to ruins, serving as nothing more than grazing pastures for sheep and camels. The people themselves will be handed over to foreign nations, facing plunder and total destruction [חומת אנך].

To deliver this message, the prophet is instructed to direct his attention toward the Ammonites. This command is understood either as a physical instruction to literally turn his face in their direction [מצודת דוד], or as a conceptual directive to focus his mind and message entirely on their affairs [ביאור שטיינזלץ]. The prophecy is delivered with a tone of strict judgment and calamity, serving as a harsh decree leveled against them rather than a message merely spoken to them [מנחת שי].