תהלים, פרק י״א, פסוק ו׳

Divine justice may sometimes appear delayed, but it never overlooks the actions of the wicked. God exercises patience, observing as the wicked act, waiting until the full measure of their sins is complete. When that moment arrives, disaster strikes them in exact proportion to their deeds.

This impending punishment is compared to rain falling from the sky, a vivid reminder that all such decrees originate directly from a higher, Divine source [רד״ק]. Just as a downpour can start without warning, this disaster will strike the wicked suddenly [אבן עזרא], ensuring they ultimately receive their exact and perfect retribution [מצודת דוד].

The exact nature of what rains down from the heavens is understood in several ways by commentators. One approach views this downpour as a shower of nets and traps, falling from above to physically entangle and capture the wicked within their own sins [רד״ק, מצודת ציון, מצודת דוד, מאירי]. Another perspective suggests a more fiery image, describing a rain of blazing coals [רש״י, מלבי״ם, ביאור שטיינזלץ]. A third, unique interpretation envisions slabs of metal or burning stones crashing down alongside the rain [אבן עזרא].

Accompanying this destructive rain is a fierce and overwhelming wind, a concept that carries multiple complementary meanings. It is described as a wind that brings intense trembling and shuddering upon the wicked [אבן עזרא, מצודת ציון, רד״ק, מאירי]. Others explain it as a scorching wind of fire and burning [רש״י, רד״ק, מאירי], or a raging storm that brings utter destruction and crisis [רש״י, ביאור שטיינזלץ].

This immense disaster is the specific portion of their cup, meaning it is the exact destiny prepared for them based entirely on their own choices [מלבי״ם, רד״ק]. The imagery of a cup perfectly explains God's patience in this world. He tolerates the wicked for a time, waiting until their cup of sins is completely full. When that time comes, they will receive their full punishment, and everyone who suffered at their hands will witness exact, measured justice fulfilled right before their eyes [אלשיך].