In the future days of redemption, a tangible and miraculous divine presence will return to Jerusalem. This will mirror the majestic guidance that accompanied the Israelites through the desert after the exodus from Egypt, blanketing the city and making its greatness undeniable.
This renewed reality will settle upon Mount Zion, establishing it as an elevated and fully prepared foundation [מצודת ציון, רד״ק]. Some commentators specify that this focused presence will rest directly upon the site of the Temple itself [שד״ל, ביאור שטיינזלץ]. However, there are different perspectives on the exact scope of this presence. One approach suggests it will embrace the specific individuals who are summoned and chosen to live in Jerusalem [רש״י, מצודת דוד]. Another perspective broadens this to include places of gathering dedicated to the worship of God, such as synagogues and the study halls of the wise and pious. According to this view, while the divine cloud during the era of the Tabernacle rested solely over the sanctuary, the future revelation will expand outward, enveloping the surrounding areas of Zion and all its sacred assembly spaces [רד״ק, שד״ל, ביאור שטיינזלץ].
The physical manifestation of God's return will appear as a cloud and smoke during the day, and a shining, glowing fire throughout the night [מצודת ציון]. The primary approach among commentators is that this cloud and fire will serve as a shield, protecting Israel from surrounding nations [רש״י, מצודת דוד]. The smoke, however, carries an additional, profound meaning. It represents a thick barrier reflecting the ultimate mystery of God. It serves as a reminder that even in a future era of vast human wisdom, the true nature of God will remain deeply hidden and beyond complete human understanding [רד״ק].
A distinct approach suggests this divine manifestation will possess a dual nature, acting simultaneously as a reward for the righteous and a punishment for the wicked. For the righteous, the presence will be a protective cloud of glory by day and a warm, guiding light by night. Yet, for any wicked individuals remaining in the city, that very same cloud will transform into blinding, suffocating smoke, and the gentle night light will become a fierce, consuming flame [מלבי״ם].
Ultimately, God's glory will wrap around Jerusalem like a protective canopy [מצודת ציון]. Some view this canopy primarily as a shield to safeguard the honor and dignity promised to Israel [רש״י, מצודת דוד]. Others emphasize that its main purpose is to bestow profound splendor and majesty upon the city's honorable locations [שד״ל, ביאור שטיינזלץ]. Aligning with the idea of a dual revelation, this canopy will selectively shelter only those places truly worthy of honor, leaving the dwellings of the wicked entirely exposed to the consuming fire [מלבי״ם]. Finally, it is universally understood that this protective glory will encompass everything worthy within the city. Even though a few ancient manuscripts omit the word "all" regarding what is covered, the consensus among commentators affirms that the canopy will cover all the glory completely [מנחת שי].