ישעיהו, פרק ב׳, פסוק י״ד

On the day God reveals Himself, every source of human pride, every symbol of security, and the mighty forces of nature will be brought low. The primary approach among commentators is that the imagery of towering mountains and elevated hills is not meant to be taken physically. Instead, these heights serve as powerful symbols for great heroes and the people who dwell upon them. They represent everything that fills people with pride. High places offer a sense of superiority and provide a secure fortress against enemies. From these vantage points, individuals can strike at others from a position of control, completely safe from harm.

Even within this imagery, a clear distinction exists between the types of elevated terrain. Mountains represent the absolute peak of height and power, while hills are smaller but still rise up and stand out above their surroundings [מלבי״ם]. Both reflect the way human ego swells and bulges, seeking to elevate itself above others [אבן עזרא].

In contrast to the view that these heights are merely metaphors for human arrogance, another perspective understands this as a literal description of the natural world. According to this approach, the sheer greatness of nature will physically shrink when confronted with the revelation of God. The most massive, unyielding mountains will simply contract and diminish in His presence [ביאור שטיינזלץ].