ישעיהו, פרק כ״ד, פסוק ח׳

A profound silence has fallen over the once-vibrant banquet halls. Places previously filled with music, dancing, and lively celebration are now entirely still. In the past, revelers would openly declare their joy and happiness [רש״י], but that time has passed, replaced by a complete halt to the festivities. The sudden end to the music and merriment is felt most acutely in the drinking houses, where people would gather to drink and celebrate [אבן עזרא, רד״ק]. The unusual noise, commotion, and sheer volume of the partying crowds have been entirely silenced [מצודת ציון, מלבי״ם].

A careful distinction is made regarding the specific types of music that have disappeared, reflecting different layers of human happiness. Drums represent physical celebration; they are instruments specifically designed to accompany lively movement. When the beating of the drums ceases, the loud commotion, laughter, and energetic steps of the dancers naturally come to an end alongside them.

However, the loss extends beyond the physical and noisy expressions of happiness. The music of the harp has also been silenced. Unlike the drum, the harp is not meant for dancing. Instead, it is played to awaken a quiet, inner joy within the soul, often enjoyed without any physical movement at all. The silencing of the harp reveals a deeper tragedy: it is not merely the loud, external celebrations that have vanished, but every trace of internal, emotional joy has been removed from the world [מלבי״ם].