ירמיהו, פרק מ״ט, פסוק כ״ד

A devastating rumor reaches the Arameans, plunging them into severe distress as their standing collapses before their very eyes [ביאור שטיינזלץ, מלבי״ם]. Damascus is overcome by a profound weakness. The city is sapped of its resolve, losing the strength and ability to fight off its approaching enemies [רש״י, רד״ק, מצודת דוד]. Realizing their complete helplessness, the people turn their backs on the battlefield, desperately attempting to run away and escape the impending conflict [מצודת דוד, מצודת ציון].

Just as they attempt to flee, their escape plan falls apart as a sudden trembling takes hold of the city. The primary approach among commentators understands this as a state of immense anxiety, characterized by intense physical shaking and shuddering of the limbs [רש״י, רד״ק, מצודת ציון]. Alternatively, this trembling is seen as a physical paralysis rather than just fear. A sudden weakness strikes the joints of their legs, physically preventing them from walking. Even though Damascus desperately wants to run, this crippling weakness paralyzes the city and blocks any chance of escape [מלבי״ם].

Trapped and unable to move, the city is overwhelmed by deep distress and agony, compared to the severe, inescapable pains of a woman in labor [מצודת ציון, ביאור שטיינזלץ]. This powerful imagery of childbirth pains serves to illustrate the brutal reality of their situation, highlighting the ultimate capture of their fortress and the tragic loss of life within its walls [מלבי״ם].