ישעיהו, פרק י״ב, פסוק ו׳

A passionate call for deep joy and bursting song echoes from Jerusalem. This celebration is a direct response to the profound experience of God resting His presence among His people and the massive miracles He performs on their behalf. The instruction is to raise voices in loud song, praise, and immense happiness [מצודת ציון, רד״ק, ביאור שטיינזלץ]. The primary approach among commentators is that this celebration is sparked by the reality of God dwelling directly within the city [אבן עזרא]. As He performs wonders and signs specifically for the people of Zion, His name becomes magnified and sanctified throughout the entire world [רד״ק, מצודת דוד, מלבי״ם]. Some view this relationship as a direct identification, noting that the great presence in the city is none other than God Himself [שד״ל]. Others emphasize that God is recognized as great precisely because He chooses to dwell within Jerusalem [חומת אנך וצוארי שלל בשם הזוהר].

This celebration contains multiple layers of redemption. On a national and historical level, it serves as a song for future salvation, connected to events like the defeat of Sennacherib and the arrival of the Messiah, which echo the miracles of the Passover holiday [צאינה וראינה]. Furthermore, this joyful announcement radiates from Zion to the rest of the world, bringing news of salvation for the oppressed and the complete removal of evil [ביאור שטיינזלץ]. On a purely spiritual level, the joy experienced by the Israelites stands apart from the material happiness of other nations. Their gladness is rooted in the holiness of the Commandments, and the call to sing specifically points to the joy found in studying the Torah [אהבת יהונתן].

A unique perspective emerges from the feminine nature of this call to the city's inhabitants. Some commentators suggest that this is a specific address to the women of Israel. According to this view, the revelation of God's presence brings an overwhelming sense of purity and profound awe. This sacred atmosphere elevates the entire city to such a high spiritual level that it prevents any inappropriate thoughts, thereby allowing the women to safely and publicly raise their voices in joyous song [צוארי שלל, חומת אנך].