יחזקאל, פרק ל״ג, פסוק ז׳

The role of a prophet extends far beyond merely delivering divine messages; he carries a heavy responsibility for the survival of the people and the correction of their ways. Clarifying a parable presented earlier, the essence of the prophetic mission is defined by comparing the prophet to a military watchman [מלבי״ם, רד״ק, אברבנאל]. Just as a guard is stationed to look out for approaching danger and warn the citizens to prevent the loss of life, the prophet is appointed by God to stand watch over the Israelites and sound the alarm [רש״י, מצודת דוד, ביאור שטיינזלץ].

This duty is activated when the prophet receives a direct warning from God regarding a decree of disaster or punishment destined to strike the nation [מלבי״ם, מצודת דוד, ביאור שטיינזלץ]. Upon hearing this divine decree, the prophet is obligated to alert the people in God's name about the approaching danger. His voice serves as the spiritual equivalent of a watchman sounding a horn to warn of an enemy attack [רד״ק, אברבנאל].

Commentators agree that the purpose of this warning is not simply to announce an impending doom, but to issue a practical call to action. The prophet must alert the people so they have the opportunity to repent, correct their behavior, and ultimately be saved from the harsh decree [מלבי״ם]. This vital warning provides sinners with a chance to abandon their destructive paths and live. At the same time, delivering the message protects the prophet himself. By faithfully fulfilling his duty to warn the nation, he clears his own soul of any guilt regarding their fate [אברבנאל].