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Isaiah 21

17 verses

TL;DR

Isaiah 21 presents a series of oracles warning of political upheaval and divine judgment against Elam, Media, Babylon, Dumah, Arabia, and Kedar, urging Israel to observe these warnings.

Summary

The chapter opens with a bleak vision concerning Elam and Media, portraying their betrayal and impending siege. Isaiah expresses deep sorrow and fear over the unfolding events, invoking the image of a pregnant woman in distress. He then calls upon a watchman to observe and proclaim what he sees, describing a vivid scene of chariots, lions, and an ominous atmosphere. The watchman reports the fall of Babylon and the destruction of its idols. Subsequent sections issue warnings about Dumah, the wilderness of Arabia, and the people of Kedar, all foretelling their downfall within a year. The oracles collectively emphasize Israel’s prophetic duty and the sovereignty of God over all nations.

Outline
  1. Burden and lamentation concerning Elam, Media, and Babylon.
  2. Call for a watchman to observe and proclaim divine judgment.
  3. Prophetic warnings directed at Dumah, Arabia, and Kedar.
Themes
Divine judgment upon foreign powersProphetic witness and responsibilityLament and sorrow over impending calamity
Keywords
burdenwatchmanprophecyjudgmentlamentdivine sovereigntypolitical powers
People
ElamitesMedesBabylonian kingsWatchmanIsraelitesKedarites
Places
ElamMediaBabylonDumahSeirArabiaTemaKedar
Things
WatchtowerChariotsLionProphecyDivine decree
Key Verses
  • Isaiah 21:2: Introduces the main political targets and sets the tone for the impending judgments.
  • Isaiah 21:9: Details the fall of Babylon, a central theme of the chapter.
  • Isaiah 21:17: Concludes the oracles with the prediction of Kedar’s demise, highlighting the reach of divine judgment.
Questions
  • How does Isaiah portray the relationship between Israel and foreign nations in this chapter?
  • What role does the watchman play in conveying God’s message to the people?
  • In what ways does the imagery of a lion and chariots contribute to the overall theme of judgment?
  • How do the specific warnings to Elam, Media, Babylon, Dumah, and Kedar reflect broader prophetic concerns?
  • What can modern readers learn about divine sovereignty and human accountability from these verses?
Sentiment

negative
The chapter conveys foreboding, judgment, and sorrow over impending calamities.