תהלים, פרק כ״ד, פסוק ח׳

A dramatic call echoes, framing a powerful dialogue about the identity and true nature of the King of Glory. Commentators explore the source of this questioning voice. Some suggest that the physical gates of the sanctuary themselves call out to ask who approaches [רד״ק], while others view it as a rhetorical question posed by a hypothetical speaker [אבן עזרא, מצודת דוד]. Ultimately, the purpose of this inquiry is to establish that true, supreme glory does not belong to any human being, not even a ruler as great as King Solomon, but is reserved for God alone [מאירי, ביאור שטיינזלץ]. Alternatively, a different perspective interprets the question as a mocking taunt from foreign nations during the destruction of the Temple. In this view, the enemies sarcastically ask where God's glory has gone while His sanctuary is defiled and He remains entirely silent [אלשיך].

The response to this inquiry is decisive, identifying God as a being of immense strength and vast power [מצודת ציון, ביאור שטיינזלץ]. To explain why God is specifically described with military imagery, the primary approach among commentators connects this moment to the Ark of the Covenant. Historically, the Ark would accompany the Israelites into their wars, securing victory over their enemies. Now, God is depicted as a triumphant conqueror returning from the battlefield to enter His sanctuary [רד״ק, מאירי, ביאור שטיינזלץ]. This imagery emphasizes that God demonstrates His strength through concrete actions, fighting on behalf of His followers and overcoming those who threaten them. Consequently, when His presence rests among the people of Israel, they are guaranteed safety and have no reason to fear any enemy [אבן עזרא, מצודת דוד].

Offering a different angle, another interpretation divides the description of God's power into two distinct types of strength. The first represents God's profound internal might during times of destruction and exile. It highlights His ultimate restraint, showing how He holds back His power and remains silent even as His honor is desecrated. The second type of strength, describing Him as an active warrior, points toward the future. It anticipates a time when God will transition His quiet restraint into active force, waging war against the enemies of Israel and ensuring the downfall of all their oppressors [אלשיך].