Jerusalem holds a unique position in the world, measured not by its outward physical beauty, but by the spiritual and human quality of the people it raises. It stands as a center of redemption, wisdom, and divine care. The primary approach among commentators is that Zion is praised specifically for nurturing outstanding individuals. While other nations might boast of a single great person born among them, there is no need to search for one exceptional figure in Zion. Instead, it continually brings forth a multitude of wise and renowned people throughout history [רד״ק, אבן עזרא, ביאור שטיינזלץ].
The concept of being born in this holy city extends far beyond physical birth. It embraces both those who are naturally born there and those who deeply long to see it. The very experience of being in the Land of Israel grants a person a profound wisdom that surpasses what can be attained in exile [תורה תמימה]. Furthermore, the souls of the people of Israel are drawn from a high spiritual source. This divine origin gives them a unique power to elevate the city itself, a dynamic not found among other nations [אלשיך].
Looking toward the future, this deep connection to Zion serves as a prophecy for the ultimate ingathering of the exiles. Eventually, the glory once held by other great empires will transfer entirely to Zion, and people will take immense pride in claiming it as their birthplace [רש״י]. A messenger will arrive to announce to the city that all those who were forced into exile, along with all their descendants, are finally being brought back home [רש״י, מצודת דוד].
Because of Zion's immense spiritual value and the many wise individuals it nurtures, God Himself will actively build and establish it. He will secure its status, ensuring it stands supreme and elevated above all other cities [רש״י, רד״ק, אבן עזרא, ביאור שטיינזלץ, מצודת דוד]. This divine promise is also viewed as a prayer, a deep hope that God will keep the city firmly standing for many years to come [רד״ק]. Offering a different perspective, an alternative view suggests that the power to build the city does not refer directly to God's action, but rather to the people born within it. In this view, it is the exceptional individual raised in Zion who actively establishes and elevates the city to its ultimate greatness [מלבי״ם].