תהלים, פרק י״ד, פסוק ד׳

A profound sense of shock arises when witnessing the arrogance and blindness of wicked people who oppress the vulnerable. They live under the illusion that the world operates without divine oversight or ultimate justice. There is a deep wonder at how these wrongdoers can be so lacking in understanding, truly believing that no one observes their actions [רד״ק, אבן עזרא]. However, this shock also serves as a warning for the future. Eventually, these oppressors will be forced to face the consequences of their cruelty [רש״י]. They will inevitably recognize God's presence when miracles occur to save the righteous [מלבי״ם].

The casual nature of their cruelty is striking. Harming the Israelites comes as easily to them as eating a daily meal [רד״ק, ביאור שטיינזלץ, אבן עזרא]. Yet, it is not merely about the ease of the act; there is a twisted pleasure involved. While these wrongdoers may commit many different types of sins, they are united in their deep desire to cause pain to the Israelites. This cruelty brings them a satisfaction similar to enjoying a delicious dish. In fact, their desire to oppress is so strong that without robbing the Israelites, they would find no taste in their own food [מאירי, רש״י]. Historically, this imagery of consuming a meal has been linked to specific, infamous banquets. It echoes the feasts held by the descendants of Nebuchadnezzar, particularly Belshazzar's banquet where the sacred vessels of the Temple were desecrated [רש״י]. It also brings to mind the feast Esther prepared for Haman and Ahasuerus, an event that sparked immense fear among the Israelites and ultimately drove them to repentance [אלשיך].

The root of the oppressors' behavior lies in their complete denial of divine providence. Because they enjoy their feasts and do not face immediate punishment, they assume there is no ultimate judge. This false sense of security causes them to stubbornly continue their wicked ways [רד״ק]. Filled with pride, they credit their success entirely to their own strength, never pausing to thank or bless God for the abundance they enjoy [אבן עזרא, מאירי].

A sharply different perspective shifts the focus away from the oppressors and places the responsibility on the Israelites themselves. According to this view, the wicked are only able to inflict harm because the Israelites failed to pray and call out to God for protection [מצודת דוד]. Building on this idea, the imagery of eating without calling out to God can be seen as a direct reference to the Israelites' own past failings, recalling a time when the nation faced punishment simply for eating without offering a blessing. This creates a powerful contrast. If the Israelites were struck with fear and moved to repent over a mere lack of care in blessing their food, then surely the wicked, who completely deny God, will eventually face severe judgment. Consequently, it is only fitting that God will step in to help those who believe in Him against those who deny Him [מלבי״ם].