THEOSISTheodoret of Cyrus
O son of man, bow down and intercede with your hands, wielding the sword: the third sword symbolizes a devastating plague, a significant affliction. He summons the forces against Jerusalem in the ninth year of Zedekiah’s reign, branding it the third sword, despite it being the fourth in sequence. Since no blood was shed during Jechoniah's time, when the king willingly surrendered to Nebuchadnezzar along with his mother, his wife, and those responsible for the city, his captivity in Babylon justifies calling Zedekiah's time the third, involving serious battles and military attacks rather than simple invasions. This is why it is declared that the third sword is formidable. Following this, the Prophet is informed of the reason for the command to lament.
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And I am filled with dread, for their hearts shall be shattered, and the weak in all their adversaries shall be multiplied, delivered to the edge of the sword. Speak and declare that which will instill fear in them, that their hearts may be broken, meaning the hardness of their hearts may be softened by the announcement of impending disasters; it is sufficient to terrify them, for they shall meet death, and the gates shall be crowded with the fallen. Then, through personification, God conveys His permissions. The sword is sharp and swift to strike, it is good and glorious. You shall move as quickly as lightning, sharpened on both sides, and your countenance shall be uplifted. This sword, honed on both edges, has a finely crafted blade that shimmers like lightning. Thus, says God, clear the path however you choose, to the left or to the right; you shall have Me as your support. He reiterated these thoughts, adding: