זכריה, פרק ט׳, פסוק י״ז

The future era holds the promise of extraordinary abundance, sparking profound joy and bringing both physical and spiritual renewal to the generation. There is a deep sense of amazement at the sheer scale and intensity of this prosperity [מצודת ציון]. Commentators offer various perspectives on the exact nature of this goodness and beauty. It is seen as the hidden reward carefully preserved for that future time [רש״י], or as the radiant beauty of the thriving nation itself [מצודת דוד]. Others suggest it refers to the day of redemption [אבן עזרא], the future king who will be revealed [ביאור שטיינזלץ], or the exceptionally high quality of the land's produce [רד״ק, אברבנאל]. Taking a different path, one view suggests this is an expression of wonder spoken by the people themselves. They will question the value of precious stones and royal crowns when compared to the true, sustaining blessings of the earth [מלבי״ם].

The effects of this agricultural blessing will be most visible in the younger generation. The massive yields of grain will provide the young men with renewed strength, resilience, and courage [רש״י, מצודת דוד]. Similarly, the fresh produce of the vineyards, whether understood as the grapes themselves [מצודת ציון] or newly pressed, unfermented wine [ביאור שטיינזלץ], will have a profound impact on the young women.

This impact is understood in two primary ways. The first approach connects the effect to speech and expression. The wine and the joy of the harvest will inspire the young women to sing. Although they are naturally modest and quiet, the overwhelming happiness will move them to break into songs of praise after their meals [רש״י, מצודת דוד, אבן עזרא, מצודת ציון]. Following the earlier theme of wonder, another perspective suggests that the young people will speak up to declare their desire only for the satisfying grain and wine, dismissing the appeal of useless jewels [מלבי״ם]. The second approach views the effect in terms of physical growth and flourishing. The blessings of the earth will nurture and raise a generation of healthy, beautiful young men and women [רד״ק, אברבנאל, ביאור שטיינזלץ]. A related idea suggests that the exceptional wine itself will thrive and grow, even in untouched, uncultivated soil [רש״י].