יחזקאל, פרק ל״א, פסוק י״ב

The absolute downfall of the Assyrian Empire reaches a tragic end as its former greatness collapses. Likened to a towering cedar tree, the empire is violently cut down and shattered by a foreign force [רד״ק]. These attackers are strong and cruel nations, specifically identified as the Chaldeans, who completely destroy Assyria down to its very foundations [רד״ק, מלבי״ם, ביאור שטיינזלץ].

As the massive tree is felled, it is cast down to the earth [רש״י] and its pieces are scattered [מצודת ציון, ביאור שטיינזלץ]. The branches fall everywhere across the landscape, landing on mountains, deep in valleys, and along strong riverbeds [מצודת ציון, ביאור שטיינזלץ]. Wherever these branches land, they are broken and trampled underfoot [מצודת דוד].

Beneath the imagery of the fallen tree lies the grim reality of the empire's ruin. The branches falling on the mountains represent the military forces and battalions dying in mountain battles. Meanwhile, the branches breaking in the water channels symbolize the wealthy citizens and the general masses being scattered and forced into exile [מלבי״ם].

The final stage of this collapse is complete isolation. The many nations that once sought safety and shelter under the protective shade of this powerful empire now step away. They completely abandon the fallen power, leaving it deserted and no longer seeking its refuge [מצודת ציון, מצודת דוד].