The peacefulness and success of the wicked in this world create a deep sense of confusion, especially when observing their final moments. One naturally expects a person who lived a wicked life to face suffering and fear at the end as a punishment for their actions. Yet, reality often reveals the exact opposite, with the wicked experiencing a calm and painless death.
The primary approach among commentators focuses on the imagery of the soul separating from the body. When a person dies in agony, it seems as though their life force is tied down by strong, unyielding chains that are difficult to untie. In stark contrast, the wicked die peacefully and without sorrow, as if there are no bonds or knots making it difficult for their souls to depart [רד״ק, אבן עזרא, מאירי, אלשיך]. Offering a different perspective, [המלבי״ם] suggests that the bodies of the wicked simply harbor no hidden internal weaknesses or diseases that lead to a painful death. Furthermore, a Midrashic approach indicates that the wicked are completely free from anxiety or sadness regarding their final day [תורה תמימה, רש״י], and that God does not delay in fulfilling their desires [רש״י].
When considering their physical state, commentators offer two main viewpoints. The first suggests that the natural strength of the wicked remains robust, healthy, and entirely intact until their very last day [רד״ק, אבן עזרא, מלבי״ם, שטיינזלץ, מאירי]. The second approach compares the wicked to a grand hall, suggesting they are as healthy and strong as a solid, stable building [רש״י, מצודת ציון, מצודת דוד, מאירי]. Expanding on this idea, [אבן עזרא] notes that the very act of living in luxurious halls, which offer a perfect balance of fresh air and a protective roof, directly contributes to their enduring health.
The combination of these factors only deepens the mystery surrounding the wicked. Even though they do not waste away from exhaustion, old age, or prolonged illness, but rather remain at the peak of their physical strength, they bypass the difficult struggle of death that one would expect from someone in such a robust state. Instead, they depart from the world in total tranquility, free from harm, normal human hardship, and suffering [אלשיך, מאירי, מלבי״ם].