ישעיהו, פרק ט״ו, פסוק ג׳

The crushing grief striking Moab bursts from the privacy of homes into the open, becoming a completely public display of sorrow. The mourning consumes every part of the city and every layer of society, with signs of devastation visible everywhere one turns. The devastation leaves no one untouched, striking Moab both as a collective nation and as individuals suffering personal loss [אבן עזרא, מלבי ם באור המילות, רד״ק].

The tragedy unfolds across various centers of public gathering. People weep in the narrow streets and alleys behind their homes where passersby walk [מלבי״ם], as well as in the broad market squares where massive crowds frequently assemble [מלבי״ם]. These large squares also represent the city's elders and officials, who traditionally sit in these central spaces [חומת אנך]. The grief even reaches the rooftops, the highest and most visible points of the city [מלבי״ם]. This creates a tragic contrast, as women would typically climb to the rooftops to watch joyous celebrations taking place below [חומת אנך].

As the people break down, commentators offer different perspectives on the nature of their intense weeping. One approach understands the mourning as loud, physical sounds of groaning, moaning, and crying out [רש״י, מצודת ציון, והתרגום המובא ברד״ק]. Another perspective views the sorrow as a downward, sinking motion. This signifies a profound internal breaking, humiliation, and deep depression brought on by the immense pain [מלבי ם באור המילות]. Alternatively, it paints a vivid picture of the mourners being so utterly consumed by grief that their very bodies seem to melt and wash away in their own tears [רד״ק].

Yet, despite the overwhelming wailing and the sight of masses drowning in public heartbreak, their despair is absolute. The sadness leaves them entirely broken, without a single spark of passion or will remaining to rise up and fight for their city [מלבי״ם].