יחזקאל, פרק כ״ו, פסוק י״ז

A profound lament captures the sharp contrast between a mighty city's undisputed historical dominance and its sudden, shocking downfall. Mourners are struck with disbelief at its collapse, as its natural defenses and strategic positioning made it seemingly unconquerable.

The city is remembered for its unique relationship with the water. One perspective views it as a fortress situated securely in the heart of the sea, with the surrounding waters serving as a natural shield and safe haven [רש״י, מצודת דוד, מנחת שי]. This prime maritime location allowed the city to amass great wealth and rise to prominence through an extensive network of sea trade [רד״ק, ביאור שטיינזלץ]. Alternatively, another tradition emphasizes the city's deep historical roots, noting that it had been firmly established and continuously inhabited since ancient times [רש״י].

Widely recognized as a highly praised and glorious metropolis [מצודת ציון, ביאור שטיינזלץ], it stood as the most powerful nation among the islands. Its supreme strength was built upon massive fortresses, towering structures, and the sheer bravery of its people [רד״ק, מצודת דוד, מלבי״ם].

This immense power naturally translated into a deep sense of fear and terror [רש״י, מצודת ציון]. The primary approach among commentators is that the city's inhabitants leveraged their great strength to cast a shadow of dread over all other people living across the seas and islands [רד״ק, מצודת דוד, ביאור שטיינזלץ]. A different view suggests that it was the formidable nature of the sea itself that imparted an aura of terror to the city's residents, intimidating everyone around them [מלבי״ם]. Finally, in a tragic twist of irony, some understand the conclusion of this lament to reflect the city's ultimate fate: the very inhabitants of this mighty city who once projected such terrifying strength were the ones ultimately handed over to complete ruin and destruction [רד״ק].