At the culmination of a long historical and spiritual process, the immense wealth of a powerful trade empire undergoes a complete transformation. The vast commercial profits, which were previously compared to the fee of a prostitute, receive a new and pure purpose. This comparison is entirely metaphorical, illustrating the city's financial gains rather than any actual illicit earnings [אבן עזרא, שד״ל]. Commentators differ on exactly when this vision becomes a reality. Some believe it points to the Messianic era [רש״י, רד״ק], while others place it during the return to Zion and the days of Cyrus [אבן עזרא], or the Second Temple period [רד״ק, מלבי״ם].
The primary approach among commentators is that these commercial profits will be entirely dedicated to God. [מלבי״ם] draws a distinction between physical merchandise, such as grain and metals, and actual financial profits, explaining that both will be sent as a tribute. In contrast, [שד״ל] suggests that the wealth will not be formally dedicated for sacred use. Instead, it will remain for everyday use to serve the needs of the city's inhabitants. It is considered holy simply because the people will merit God's mercy, succeeding in their labor by His will and remaining free from foreign control over their property.
Unlike the typical practices of great empires, this gathered wealth will not be locked away in treasuries or saved for future generations [רש״י, מצודת דוד]. There will be no hoarding of capital or stockpiling of valuables [מצודת ציון, מלבי״ם]. In practical terms, [מלבי״ם] explains that the goods will not be placed in the Temple treasury to fund sacrifices, nor will the money be used to reinforce the Temple structure. Rather, the wealth will be transferred for the immediate, personal use of a specific group described as those who sit before God.
The exact identity of this group is a subject of broad discussion. Some suggest they are the exiles of Jerusalem returning to their homeland [אבן עזרא], or the righteous, upright individuals and Torah scholars who will ultimately enjoy the spoils [רש״י, ביאור שטיינזלץ]. Another approach identifies them as the priests serving in the Temple [מצודת דוד, מלבי״ם]. However, [שד״ל] strongly disputes this, noting that Temple service is always performed standing, never sitting. He argues that it refers to the people of the city themselves, who sit before God in prayer, find favor before Him, and enjoy His blessing.
Ultimately, the wealth will be used to provide a life of abundance. The grain and food will offer deep satisfaction, while the money will purchase garments that are strong, important, and expensive [מצודת דוד, מצודת ציון, ביאור שטיינזלץ]. These clothes will be beautiful and splendid [רש״י, שד״ל], reflecting true elegance and a refined wardrobe [מלבי״ם].