ישעיהו, פרק ל״ד, פסוק ט״ו

A vivid picture of complete urban destruction and human absence emerges through the peaceful settlement of wild animals and birds. In a city entirely devoid of people, wildlife discovers a safe and ideal environment to build their homes without any disturbance. Decreed by God to become their eternal inheritance, this desolate place now provides a protected and quiet living space for nature to reclaim [אברבנאל].

The exact identity of the creature making its home in these ruins is a matter of discussion. The primary approach among commentators is that it refers to a hedgehog. However, others suggest it is a completely different type of bird [אבן עזרא]. Another unique identification points to a species of tree-climbing snake that jumps onto its prey [שד״ל]. Alternatively, it might be a rare and beautiful bird that, according to legend, constantly remains in the air to avoid human contact. The very fact that such a creature would come down to nest on the ground powerfully amplifies the profound desolation, proving that no humans are anywhere in the vicinity [מלבי״ם].

The progression of this creature raising its offspring unfolds in distinct stages. First, it builds a dwelling and prepares a nest [רש״י, מצודת ציון]. Following this, it brings forth its young. The primary approach among commentators is that this refers to laying eggs or giving birth, though some understand it as an act of saving itself [ביאור שטיינזלץ]. The next stage is the actual hatching, where the chicks or offspring emerge. A final action describes the parent's ongoing care, which is understood in several ways. It may refer to physically sitting on the eggs to warm them or resting over the chicks to protect them in the shade of the ruins [שד״ל, אברבנאל]. Others explain it as the act of gathering the eggs [רד״ק], noting that chronologically, gathering and warming must happen before the eggs hatch. A third approach suggests this describes the actual vocal call the bird makes from its throat, drawing the chicks to come and hide safely in its shadow [רש״י, מצודת דוד, מצודת ציון].

The scene concludes with the arrival of kites, a type of bird of prey. They flock specifically to these abandoned ruins because it is the only place they find suitable and comfortable to assemble [מצודת דוד]. Normally, these birds build their nests on high, inaccessible cliffs far from human reach. Yet, in this completely deserted landscape, they can safely gather low in the valley right on the ground [מלבי״ם]. They come together as companions of the same kind, reflecting a common biblical expression for identical creatures or members of the same species traveling and dwelling together [מצודת ציון].