זכריה, פרק ב׳, פסוק ז׳

A prophetic vision unfolds, featuring a dynamic encounter between two heavenly messengers. Their movements are designed to clarify a profound mystery regarding the measuring of Jerusalem and to reveal the ultimate destiny of the city.

There are different perspectives regarding the identity of the angel who speaks with the prophet. One view suggests this is the very same angel seen earlier holding a measuring line [רש״י]. Another perspective argues that it is not the measuring angel, but rather the heavenly guide who has been accompanying the prophet [מצודת דוד] and directing his path [ביאור שטיינזלץ]. This angel steps forward, emerging from the myrtle trees seen in earlier visions [אבן עזרא]. He approaches a second angel to question the purpose of the measuring. A deep concern drives him: the act of measuring might imply that Jerusalem's future borders will remain fixed and restricted, leaving no room for growth [מצודת דוד].

At this moment, a new messenger sent directly by God steps forward to meet him [אבן עזרא]. His purpose is to reveal the true meaning behind the measurement [מצודת דוד]. Because the first angel has been the prophet's guide from the start of the vision, the new messenger addresses him directly, ensuring that the guide himself delivers the revelation to the prophet [רד״ק]. The message brought by this new angel completely dispels the earlier fears. It reveals that despite the act of measuring, Jerusalem will eventually expand far beyond its current dimensions. The city will overflow with so many inhabitants living in total peace and security that it will become an open, unwalled metropolis, entirely removing the need for defensive borders [רד״ק].