יחזקאל, פרק ל״ד, פסוק ז׳

A firm divine message is directed at the leaders of the nation, holding them accountable for their severe failures. Acting as the shepherds of the people, these leaders were the primary cause of the nation's suffering. Instead of protecting and caring for their flock, they focused entirely on their own personal interests. Because of this neglect, the Israelites were left completely unprotected and quickly became easy targets for foreign nations [אברבנאל].

This strict call for attention serves as a direct introduction to a harsh rebuke [רד"ק, ביאור שטיינזלץ]. Interestingly, the summons to listen to God's word is repeated again later in the prophecy. This repetition is due to the structure of the message itself. After the initial call, the prophet spends a significant amount of time detailing the specific sins of the leaders. Because of this long description, he must command their attention once more before announcing the actual punishment, which is the total removal of these kings and their descendants from power [אברבנאל].

While this opening generally functions as a prelude to punishment, another perspective views the call to listen to God as a moment of hope and an opportunity to change course. In this light, God is actually inviting the corrupt leaders to return to the Torah and embrace His teachings, promising that if they do, He will grant them mercy [אברבנאל בשם תרגום יונתן].