יחזקאל, פרק ל׳, פסוק ו׳

The downfall of a great empire begins not only with internal decay but with the shattering of its external supports and centers of power. The total collapse of Egypt is set in motion through the loss of its allies and the physical destruction of its land. Egypt historically leaned on various pillars of strength, including military alliances with foreign nations, a massive population, the natural defense of the Nile, and a deep-seated belief in its idols and its king. Yet, all these foundational supports are destined to be stripped away [מלבי״ם].

The destruction of the nations that stood by Egypt serves three distinct purposes. First, it ensures that Egypt is left completely isolated and without any outside help. Second, it causes the devastation to spread into neighboring lands, turning them into desolate areas where no human will travel. Finally, this widespread collapse forces the surrounding nations to recognize the immense greatness of God [מלבי״ם]. Stripped of its backing, the exalted status, arrogant power, and strong government of Egypt will completely crash, bringing the once-proud nation down to the absolute lowest point [מצודת דוד, מצודת ציון, ביאור שטיינזלץ].

The devastation will ultimately sweep through the entire country, beginning at its very edge. The destruction is set to start at the border town of Migdol Syene, acting as the starting point from which the sword will begin to strike down the inhabitants [מלבי״ם, מצודת דוד]. From this edge, the ruin will spread relentlessly to the opposite end of the nation [ביאור שטיינזלץ], reaching all the way to the border of Cush. Although Cush is not explicitly named at this moment, it is understood as the natural boundary based on earlier warnings regarding the kingdom's limits [רד״ק]. The sword will pass through every border, ensuring that the victims fall entirely within the land of Egypt itself [רד״ק].