ישעיהו, פרק מ״ט, פסוק י״ט

Jerusalem, having stood desolate and ruined throughout the long years of exile, is destined for a dramatic transformation. From a state of utter devastation, it will burst into vibrant life, becoming a bustling and densely populated center. God speaks directly to the city, comforting her over the deep anxiety caused by her current, broken condition [מצודת דוד, רד״ק, צאינה וראינה].

The destruction experienced by the land is profound, encompassing abandoned cities and empty regions. However, there is also a specific focus on intentional, targeted demolition, which represents a much harsher degree of ruin [מלבי״ם]. Beyond the physical rubble, this severe devastation actually serves as a testament to the land's inherent holiness. Because the land of Israel cannot tolerate impurity, the most sacred places suffered the most intense destruction during the exile [אהבת יהונתן].

Rather than simply noting that these ruined areas will be rebuilt, the prophetic vision shifts to a vivid image of overwhelming growth. The once-empty city will become incredibly cramped and tightly packed due to a massive influx of people. There will be so many residents pouring in that space will run out, making it difficult even to find room to build new homes [אבן עזרא, רש״י, מצודת ציון, רד״ק].

The primary approach among commentators is that this immense crowding will be caused entirely by the joyful return of Jerusalem's own people, rather than the presence of foreigners. The very enemies and corrupting forces that once tore the land apart will be banished to the ends of the earth, never to cross its borders again [מצודת דוד, רד״ק, מצודת ציון, שד״ל]. Ultimately, the city will overflow with her returning children, while those who once hunted and destroyed her will vanish completely [אבן עזרא, מלבי״ם, ביאור שטיינזלץ].