ירמיהו, פרק מ״ו, פסוק ד׳

A sudden call to battle demands rapid and meticulous preparation, transforming a camp of soldiers into a fully equipped cavalry. The mobilization unfolds step by step, moving from the animals to the armor and finally to the weapons.

The orders begin with the animals, instructing the men to tie and harness the horses to the chariots [רד״ק, מצודת דוד, שטיינזלץ]. Once the animals are prepared, skilled horsemen are called to mount their horses [מצודת ציון, מלבי״ם, רד״ק].

Mounted and ready, the warriors must organize themselves for the coming fight. They are directed to take their specific positions within the battle formation [מצודת דוד], while another approach suggests they stand at attention upon their horses [רד״ק]. As they take their places, they wear protective helmets crafted from metal or copper [מצודת ציון, שטיינזלץ].

The soldiers also secure their bodies against enemy strikes. They put on thick iron garments designed to block the blows of swords and spears. This heavy protection is described either as scale armor [מצודת ציון] or as clothing made of interlocking iron rings [רד״ק].

Finally, the men prepare their weapons. They are instructed to rigorously clean and polish their spears [מצודת ציון]. This careful polishing removes any built-up rust, ensuring the metal gleams brightly as they ride into combat [רש״י, רד״ק, מצודת דוד].