יחזקאל, פרק ל״ה, פסוק ז׳

A profound prophecy foretells the complete and final destruction of the nation of Edom at the end of days [מלבי״ם]. The focal point of this downfall is Mount Seir, which represents either the great central city of Edom [אברבנאל] or the entire lineage of the nation that originated from that mountain and later spread across the world [מצודת דוד].

The impending ruin is characterized by an intense, compounding emptiness. The primary approach among commentators is that this repeated emphasis on desolation highlights the sheer magnitude and immense scope of the devastation [מצודת דוד]. However, others view this as a continuous, escalating process. After the initial wave of ruin, a second layer of destruction will fall upon the land, doubling the tragedy [מלבי״ם]. Another perspective divides this profound emptiness into two distinct dimensions. The first level of ruin means the local inhabitants will be exiled and forced to abandon their homeland, while the second level means that even foreign travelers will entirely stop visiting the area [אברבנאל].

Because of this twofold emptiness, the land will be entirely cut off from anyone passing through. The devastation will be so absolute that no traveler will ever cross its borders again [אברבנאל, מלבי״ם]. In stark contrast to the Israelites, who are destined to return to their homeland, the destruction of Edom will be permanent. This final collapse will be marked by an immense loss of life across the mountains and valleys. Ultimately, the purpose of this absolute downfall is to prove to the entire world that this is a direct, divine act of God, rather than a normal human conflict [אברבנאל].