יואל, פרק ד׳, פסוק כ׳

The ultimate promise of the nation remaining in its land serves as a historical endpoint, marking the final cessation of past destructions and exiles. In stark contrast to the fate of Egypt and Edom, which are doomed to absolute desolation and eternal ruin, the kingdom of Judah will enjoy a constant, stable existence [רד״ק, אברבנאל]. Its settlement in the land represents a firm, unshakeable endurance [מצודת ציון].

The primary approach among commentators is that this eternal guarantee ensures Judah will never be exiled again, and Jerusalem will never face another destruction. Beyond physical security, the ancient historical rift between the tribes of Ephraim and Judah will finally come to an end. The royal house of David will return to lead all of Israel in peace, fostering a deep spiritual connection to God. In this restored reality, Judah will serve as the head of all the tribes, and Jerusalem will stand as the central, supreme city over all other cities in Israel [מלבי״ם, אברבנאל].

The enduring nature of this promise is expressed through a dual focus on both Judah and Jerusalem. Some understand this repetition as a conceptual echo, simply reinforcing the eternal guarantee [מצודת דוד]. Conversely, another approach highlights a precise distinction between two types of eternity. Judah's existence is described in terms of absolute, indivisible time, meaning its presence will be permanent and entirely unchanging. Jerusalem's endurance, however, is framed as an eternity built across successive eras. Its settlement will be continually renewed with fresh inhabitants, allowing the city to grow in beauty and splendor from one generation to the next [מלבי״ם].

While most commentators view this future as an absolute destiny, assuming the nation will no longer stumble into sin and trigger another exile, there is a qualifying perspective. This alternative view maintains that the eternal promise and the continued presence of God remain conditional, resting entirely on the people's ongoing commitment not to rebel against Him [אבן עזרא].