ישעיהו, פרק ל״ג, פסוק ט׳

A profound sense of grief and total devastation falls over the land, painted through the tragic transformation of its most magnificent and fertile regions into symbols of absolute ruin. This vivid picture of desolation is viewed by some as a historical account of an enemy conquering and destroying the territory step by step [מלבי״ם]. Others interpret it as a metaphor for the collapse of cities and the overwhelming terror gripping the people as they face the Assyrian army [אבן עזרא, שד״ל]. However, a different perspective suggests that this very state of abandonment and ruin following the exile serves a greater purpose: it is the exact reason that will awaken God to bring about the ultimate redemption [אברבנאל].

The earth itself is plunged into a state of heavy mourning and corruption. The despair progresses into a more severe stage of languishing, reflecting a deep, devastating destruction that goes far beyond mere sadness [מלבי״ם, מצודות, ביאור שטיינזלץ]. Alternatively, this profound grief does not refer to the physical soil at all, but rather captures the broken spirit of the people living upon it [שד״ל].

The majestic forests of Lebanon, representing towering strength and honor—or perhaps serving as a symbol for Jerusalem itself [אברבנאל]—are now reduced to shame and disgrace. Stripped of their vitality, they have completely dried up and withered away [רוב הפרשנים]. The ruin spreads to the Sharon, a region famously known for its rich, lush, and fertile pasturelands. In a tragic reversal, this once-thriving area is transformed into a barren, arid desert [רש״י, רד״ק, מצודות].

The devastation finally reaches Bashan and Carmel, regions celebrated for their premium fields, vineyards, and prime grazing lands. The primary approach among commentators is that these areas are abruptly emptied; the trees seemingly shake off their own fruit, dropping it to the ground and remaining entirely bare amid the ruin [רד״ק, מצודות, אבן עזרא, שד״ל]. Other interpretations suggest a darker image of choking and total annihilation [רש״י], or even a striking scene where these desolate regions cry out in their emptiness, echoing with a harsh sound like that of a braying donkey [שד״ל].