צפניה, פרק א׳, פסוק י״ד

A time of profound judgment and vengeance is advancing rapidly, bringing with it a wave of disaster so terrifying that it shatters the resolve of even the most courageous fighters. The day of retribution from God is imminent, and the events leading up to it are unfolding at a relentless pace [מצודת דוד, אבן עזרא, מלבי״ם, רד״ק].

The arrival of this time is marked by a great, bitter roar [מצודת ציון, רד״ק]. There are varying perspectives on the source and nature of this loud shout. The primary approach among commentators is that this cry comes from the mighty warriors themselves. The sheer intensity and horror of God's judgment will be so overwhelming that the bravest fighters will lose their nerve. Their courage will melt away in the face of battle, and they will weep and scream in bitter panic.

Offering a different perspective, [מלבי״ם] suggests that the warrior is not crying out in fear. Instead, he stands amidst the chaos and shouts a bitter declaration, announcing to all that the terrible day of God has finally arrived. Taking a completely different approach, [רד״ק] explains that the bitter cry does not belong to the warrior at all. Rather, it is as if the day itself raises its voice and calls out in sorrow. In this view, the warriors are merely present at the scene, gathering at the place of judgment to either kill or be killed in the impending war.