Commentators explain that the 'bruised reed' is a powerful metaphor for Egypt. Like a cracked reed from the Nile, Egypt might look like a sturdy staff to lean on, but it is fundamentally weak. Leaning on it for support will not only fail but will cause the reed to splinter and pierce the hand of the one trusting it. This illustrates that relying on unreliable human powers leads to greater injury, not security.