ירמיהו, פרק מ״ח, פסוק ט״ז

The impending destruction of Moab is an unavoidable reality, waiting just around the corner. The absolute certainty and swiftness of this ruin are emphasized through a repeated, dual concept [מצודת דוד]. The disaster heading toward the nation is total, representing a complete breaking point and a tragic event [מצודת ציון, ביאור שטיינזלץ].

A precise distinction exists between the two stages of this warning, which complement each other to highlight the severity of the situation. First, the disaster is described as being near in terms of location and time, meaning the ruin is already positioned right next to Moab. However, one might mistakenly believe that even if a threat is nearby, it could still delay or take its time before actually striking. To remove this false hope, the warning clarifies that the tragedy is moving rapidly. The disaster is not merely physically close; it is rushing forward with great speed and will not be delayed for a single moment [מלבי״ם].