ירמיהו, פרק נ״א, פסוק כ״ו

The prophecy of destruction decrees an absolute and final end, ensuring that nothing of value or use will ever be salvaged from the ruins. On a physical level, this total devastation is pictured through the highest quality building materials. When a grand structure is erected, the cornerstones are typically large blocks used to begin the construction [ביאור שטיינזלץ]. Placed at the angles of the building [מצודת ציון], they are specifically chosen for their beauty because they stand out and are visible from multiple sides [מצודת דוד]. Similarly, foundation stones are required to be massive [רד״ק] and exceptionally strong [מצודת דוד] to properly support the structure [מצודת ציון, ביאור שטיינזלץ]. Yet, the impending ruin will be so severe that no one will even attempt to scavenge these premium stones for new building projects [מצודת דוד]. The city is destined to remain a wasteland, never to be rebuilt [ביאור שטיינזלץ].

Beyond the physical collapse of the city, the imagery of the stones serves as a political allegory for the complete loss of power and leadership [רד״ק, מלבי״ם]. The precious and solid cornerstone represents the monarchy and the central government. In contrast, the foundation stone, which holds a slightly lower status than the cornerstone, symbolizes smaller governing bodies or local leadership [מלבי״ם]. Through this metaphor, the ultimate message is clear: no political entity will ever rise from Babylon again, and neither a king nor a local ruler will ever emerge from its ruins [רד״ק].