ירמיהו, פרק י״ט, פסוק ו׳

A dramatic shift in the identity of a well-known location serves as a warning of impending destruction. In the future, this area will no longer be known by its historic titles. Instead, it will receive a new identity shaped entirely by the tragic events destined to unfold there [מצודת דוד]. Previously, the location functioned as a center for idolatry, housing altars where unimaginable cruelties took place. Commentators explain that one of its early names was derived from the drums that were constantly beaten during the rituals. The loud drumming was intentionally used to drown out the screams of a child being burned alive, ensuring that a father's mercy would not be awakened by his child's cries [מצודת דוד]. Another perspective connects the location's title directly to the intense fires and agonizing screams that filled the area [ביאור שטיינזלץ].

The surrounding valley carried a similar legacy, named for the groaning and wailing of the children who were sacrificed in the flames [מצודת דוד]. Yet, these historic titles, which stand as monuments to cruelty and the sins of idol worship, are destined to be erased. They will be replaced by a single, terrifying description: the Valley of Slaughter. This new identity stands as a direct testament to the heavy punishment awaiting the people, as the very valley where they committed their worst offenses will become the site where countless victims will fall [מצודת דוד].