ירמיהו, פרק מ״ח, פסוק ט״ו

The downfall of Moab is absolute and final. The prophetic vision of this ruin is so certain that it is presented as an accomplished fact. Because the decree comes directly from God, His spoken word is treated as a completed action, making the future destruction appear as though it has already taken place [מצודת דוד, חומת אנך]. The devastation encompasses the whole of the society, addressing the nation itself as a single entity, as well as the collective assembly of Moab [רד״ק].

The nature of this collapse involves a sudden and complete end. The primary approach among commentators is that this represents the removal and ruin of the masses in Moab's cities, who are cut off and cease to exist [מצודת דוד, מצודת ציון, רד״ק, ביאור שטיינזלץ]. Others view this movement differently, suggesting it refers instead to the plundering enemy rising up to attack the cities [רד״ק], or alternatively, to the people within the cities themselves being brought up to the slaughter [מלבי״ם]. Following this widespread ruin, the finest and most elite young men are brought down to be killed [מצודת ציון].

This severe judgment is sealed by the authority of God, who is identified as the King of Hosts. This title emphasizes that He is the supreme Master over all the armies of heaven and earth [ביאור שטיינזלץ].