יחזקאל, פרק כ״ה, פסוק ז׳

The nation of Ammon faces a decree of absolute destruction. Their ruin does not stem from active warfare against Israel, as their own weakness kept them from the battlefield. Rather, their fate is sealed by their deep hatred and the cruel joy they felt while watching Israel fall [ביאור שטיינזלץ]. The punishment is set into motion by a declaration that God is stretching out His hand, a clear symbol of the divine strike about to land upon them [מצודת דוד].

As this judgment unfolds, Ammon's fate is described in terms of both plunder and consumption. They will be handed over as spoil to their enemies, who will consume them as entirely as one consumes food. This imagery paints a vivid picture of a nation being completely devoured and drained of its resources by hostile forces [רד"ק, מצודת ציון, מנחת שי].

The scope of their erasure is vast, extending across various societies and territories. The primary approach among commentators views this broad description as a way to emphasize their total disappearance; Ammon will simply cease to exist as a recognized nation on the world stage [מצודת דוד, ביאור שטיינזלץ]. Alternatively, this sweeping judgment reveals a precise, escalating sequence of ruin. Among lesser, unorganized groups, Ammon will be treated as mere plunder. Within established, powerful kingdoms, they will be entirely cut off, unable to find any place to live. Finally, even if they attempt to flee to distant lands to build a new, independent settlement, they will be wiped from the face of the earth [מלבי"ם].

This judgment guarantees a final and complete end, ensuring that Ammon can never return to their former state [מצודת דוד]. The ultimate purpose behind this total destruction is to bring about a clear, undeniable recognition of God. Through their downfall, it becomes absolutely known that He is a faithful judge who delivers exact and rightful justice [מצודת דוד].