ישעיהו, פרק ט״ז, פסוק ו׳

The downfall of Moab is marked by a sharp contrast between their past arrogance and their sudden ruin. Surrounding nations, or the Israelites, watch this collapse unfold. They note that while they previously had to endure Moab's endless boasting during times of peace, those proud words are now replaced by wailing [אבן עזרא, רד״ק, מצודת דוד, שד״ל].

The intensity of Moab's arrogance is a central theme, emphasized through repeated descriptions of their haughtiness [רד״ק, מצודת דוד]. This pride took multiple forms, existing both as an internal, imagined sense of spiritual superiority and as an outward display of physical greatness and national power [מלבי״ם]. However, another perspective views this intense pride as entirely unjustified, noting that the Moabite nation actually originated from a shameful act of incest [רש״י].

Coupled with this extreme arrogance was a deep hostility. Fueled by their inflated self-importance, the Moabites were constantly filled with baseless anger toward their neighboring nations [רד״ק, מצודת דוד, ביאור שטיינזלץ]. This aggression was especially directed at the Israelites, toward whom Moab harbored a burning, relentless hatred [רש״י, מלבי״ם]. Furthermore, the description of this intense anger is conceptually linked to the idea of pregnancy and conception, serving as yet another reminder of the nation's improper origins [רש״י].

Ultimately, Moab's behavior leads to a reality where their grand claims are exposed as completely untrue [מצודת ציון, אבן עזרא]. The primary approach among commentators is that Moab's boasts were mere fabrications. The grand image they invented for themselves proved false, and their actual achievements fell far short of their self-importance, a reality made painfully clear when disaster finally struck [רד״ק, שד״ל, מצודת דוד, ביאור שטיינזלץ].

Alternatively, this falsehood is understood through the metaphor of tree branches. These branches represent Moab's flawed thoughts and strategies. Blinded by pride and hatred, they refused to humble themselves and seek help from the kings of Judah [מלבי״ם, אבן עזרא]. Others view these branches as a reference to Moab's warriors, who were characterized by their deep ingratitude [רש״י]. Conversely, a different tradition interprets the branches as the few holy souls who eventually emerged from Moab and Ammon, such as Ruth and Naamah. Because these righteous individuals rejected the corrupt ways of their ancestors, they are spared from the impending destruction, leaving the nation of Moab to bear its punishment alone [חומת אנך].