יחזקאל, פרק ל״ח, פסוק י׳

The ultimate confrontation with the enemy involves a gradual psychological and strategic evolution that builds toward a single, fateful climax. The timing of this event points to the era when the Israelites return to their land [מצודת דוד]. Alternatively, it marks the precise day when God actively moves and tempts Gog to launch his campaign [ביאור שטיינזלץ].

From a strategic standpoint, the enemy does not set out with a clear, fully formed plan. At the start of the journey, he does not even know his ultimate goal, unsure whether he intends to completely destroy the land or simply conquer and settle it. It is only upon his arrival that fresh, unanticipated ideas begin to surface [מלבי״ם]. This mental shift happens in two distinct stages. First, spontaneous and preliminary thoughts naturally arise [רש״י, מצודת דוד]. At this point, the ideas are nothing more than light, fleeting images passing through the mind. This quickly transitions into a second stage, where the passing thought deepens into serious calculation and a concrete action plan, a process that will eventually lead to spoken orders and physical action [מלבי״ם].

The true nature of this dark plan is understood in different ways. It can be seen as a direct rebellion and an active war against God Himself [רש״י]. On the other hand, the plan may be defined by its ultimate result: a scheme that will prove disastrous for the one who thought of it. According to this perspective, the events unfold after Christians conquer the land and dwell there securely for a brief, specific period of nine months. At the end of this time, the enemy finalizes his strategy, but this very plan is exactly what triggers his total downfall [אברבנאל].