ירמיהו, פרק נ׳, פסוק ל״א

The prophetic vision turns its focus directly toward the leadership of Babylon, declaring a divine war against arrogance. God addresses a figure who operates entirely out of wickedness and pride [רד״ק]. The primary approach among commentators identifies this as a direct message to the Babylonian king, Belshazzar, whose punishment has finally been decreed [מצודת דוד, מלבי״ם]. However, another perspective suggests that God is declaring war against the very concept of wickedness itself [ביאור שטיינזלץ].

The moment of judgment marks the time for payback, when past sins are finally brought to account [מצודת דוד]. This downfall unfolds in two distinct ways. First, it signals the natural end of Babylon's reign, much like the inevitable setting of the sun on their era of success. At the same time, it represents the active intervention of divine providence. God is not merely allowing the empire to fade on its own; He is stepping in directly to punish the king for his actions [מלבי״ם].