יחזקאל, פרק ה׳, פסוק י״ב

A chilling, real-world explanation now brings a previous symbolic act to life. Earlier, the prophet was commanded to divide hair into three distinct parts, and the explicit meaning behind that action is finally revealed [רד״ק]. The division represents three harsh decrees destined for the people, with each stage of punishment growing progressively more severe [מלבי״ם].

The first tragedy strikes directly inside Jerusalem, where a third of the population will die from disease and starvation [מצודת דוד]. This internal devastation mirrors the earlier symbol of fire burning within the city limits [ביאור שטיינזלץ], bringing the deadly element of illness to the horrors of famine that were already foretold [מלבי״ם]. Outside the city walls, the next phase of destruction unfolds. Another third of the people will be killed in active warfare [מצודת דוד], falling at the hands of the Chaldean army surrounding the area [מלבי״ם].

The fate of the final group offers no relief for the survivors. They will be forcefully scattered to the four corners of the earth [מצודת ציון]. Yet, distance will not protect them. A sword will be unsheathed [מצודת ציון] to actively chase them down, striking the remaining exiles even in the most remote places where they try to find refuge [מצודת דוד].