נחום, פרק ב׳, פסוק י״א

The absolute downfall of Nineveh unfolds in two distinct stages: first through the complete ruin and looting of the city, and then through the overwhelming terror that grips its people [אברבנאל, מלבי״ם]. The city is left in a state of total emptiness, entirely drained of its wealth and resources. The sheer scale of this desolation is immense, leaving nothing behind but a void [רד״ק, אבן עזרא, מלבי״ם]. Beyond the loss of property, the physical structure of the city itself is destroyed, marked by the breaching of its walls and its absolute ruin [רש״י, מצודת ציון].

Following the physical destruction, a deep psychological and physical reaction overtakes the inhabitants. All courage and bravery vanish as their hearts melt from fear. This inner dread immediately triggers a physical collapse. Panic sets in, causing their knees to buckle and knock together violently, especially as they desperately attempt to flee [רש״י, רד״ק, מלבי״ם]. A deep, sickening tremble courses through their bodies, stripping away any remaining strength to even stand upright [מצודת דוד, אברבנאל].

The ultimate mark of this terror is visible on their faces. The primary approach among commentators suggests that their faces darken and turn black from fear, much like the thick soot that gathers at the bottom of a cooking pot [רש״י, מצודת דוד, אברבנאל]. Alternatively, this intense fright causes their faces to completely contort, draining away all remaining life and vitality [ביאור שטיינזלץ].