יחזקאל, פרק ל״ד, פסוק כ״ה

A profound divine promise envisions a time of absolute security and providence, fundamentally altering both human reality and the natural world. The most untamed and dangerous environments will transform into spaces of deep tranquility, as both human and natural threats are entirely neutralized. God will establish a covenant of peace, ensuring that the people live in harmony with their neighbors [ביאור שטיינזלץ]. This guarantees a reality of constant calm, completely free from the fear of robbers and hostile forces [מצודת דוד, מלבי״ם].

Beyond human conflicts, the promise addresses the dangers of the wild. The primary approach among commentators is that dangerous animals will literally be eradicated or simply cease to harm humans [מצודת דוד, ביאור שטיינזלץ]. Conversely, a metaphorical interpretation suggests that these wild beasts represent hostile nations and foreign enemies who will no longer threaten the people [אברבנאל]. Blending these concepts, the elimination of both threats addresses the two primary fears that prevent peaceful shepherding. The covenant of peace neutralizes the daytime threat of enemies and bandits, while the removal of wild beasts eliminates the nighttime terror of predators [מלבי״ם].

With these dangers eradicated, previously perilous landscapes will become safe havens. The wilderness, typically an exposed and hazardous area used for grazing [ביאור שטיינזלץ], will turn into a fully protected space where people can stay without any anxiety [אברבנאל, מלבי״ם]. This newfound security reaches its peak in the forests, the natural dwelling place of predators. Shielded by His protection, the people will be able to sleep there soundly and sweetly, undisturbed by any sudden terrors [מצודת דוד, רד״ק]. While an ancient Aramaic translation interprets this as merely passing through or residing in the woods, commentators emphasize that it refers to actual, restful sleep [רש״י, רד״ק].

Historically, this vision of ultimate safety is meant to be fulfilled in the future Messianic era. During the time of the Second Temple, the people still endured wars, subjugation to various empires, and ultimately faced another exile. Therefore, this divine guarantee points to a time of eternal tranquility, marked by the complete absence of exile and the permanent removal of any fear of enemies [אברבנאל].