תהלים, פרק מ״ח, פסוק ט׳

There is a profound sense of awe that comes with witnessing the fulfillment of long-awaited promises about Jerusalem. It marks a powerful transition from merely hearing about the city's glory to seeing it firsthand. Commentators offer different perspectives on who experiences this revelation. Some suggest these are the thoughts of visitors arriving in Jerusalem, amazed to find that the rumors they heard in their distant hometowns perfectly match the magnificent reality before their eyes [ביאור שטיינזלץ]. Others view this as a prophetic vision of the Israelites returning from exile [אבן עזרא], or as a future declaration to be made after the ultimate defeat of the nations in the end of days [רד״ק].

The primary approach among commentators is that this transition from hearing to seeing refers to the realization of prophetic words. The promises of comfort and redemption that the people heard from the prophets, and which they hoped for over generations, are finally seen coming true [רש״י, מצודת דוד, מאירי]. Another deep perspective notes that witnessing the actual fulfillment of the prophets' ancient warnings of destruction provides the very foundation of trust that their promises of comfort and goodness will also be entirely fulfilled [אלשיך].

Jerusalem is associated with two distinct divine titles, each revealing a different aspect of its relationship with God. Referring to the city in connection with heavenly armies highlights that God is the absolute master and ruler over all forces in the universe, both in the spiritual and physical realms [רד״ק, ביאור שטיינזלץ]. Additionally, the dual names hint at the history of the two Temples. The First Temple was built through the attribute of kindness and in the merit of Abraham, aligning with the divine name that represents mercy. The Second Temple, however, was built through the attribute of strict justice and in the merit of Isaac, aligning with the divine name that represents judgment [אלשיך]. The specific recognition of the Creator as the God of the Israelites arises from witnessing Him judge mighty nations and rescue His people from their grip [רד״ק].

Ultimately, there is a deep hope and promise that God will keep Jerusalem firmly established on its foundation [מצודת דוד, ביאור שטיינזלץ]. Just as He protected and prepared the city in the past, He will secure it for the future [רד״ק]. A final note of absolute permanence emphasizes that the city's construction and survival will endure eternally, without any interruption [תורה תמימה, מאירי].