Isaiah 15:4

Heshbon and Elealeh cry out; their voices are heard as far as Jahaz. Therefore the soldiers of Moab cry out; their souls tremble within.

Study Bible

Heshbon and Elealeh cry out;
Heshbon and Elealeh were significant cities in ancient Moab, located in present-day Jordan. Heshbon was a major city of the Amorites before being conquered by the Israelites under Moses (Numbers 21:25-26). Elealeh was nearby and often mentioned alongside Heshbon (Numbers 32:3, 37). The cry from these cities signifies distress and impending doom, reflecting the judgment pronounced by God through Isaiah. This lamentation is a response to the invasion and destruction prophesied against Moab, a nation often in conflict with Israel.

their voices are heard as far as Jahaz.
Jahaz was a location where Israel fought and defeated Sihon, king of the Amorites, during their journey to the Promised Land (Numbers 21:23). The mention of Jahaz indicates the extent of the outcry, suggesting widespread panic and fear. This geographical reference underscores the severity of the situation, as the cries reach far beyond the immediate vicinity, highlighting the comprehensive nature of the judgment.

Therefore the soldiers of Moab cry out;
The soldiers of Moab, known for their strength and valor, are depicted as crying out in fear and despair. This reaction is significant, as it shows that even the mighty warriors are unable to withstand the coming calamity. The Moabites were historically known for their military prowess, yet here they are portrayed as vulnerable and overwhelmed, emphasizing the power of divine judgment.

their souls tremble within.
The trembling of their souls indicates profound fear and internal turmoil. This phrase captures the emotional and psychological impact of the impending disaster. It reflects a deep-seated dread that goes beyond physical defeat, touching on the spiritual and existential crisis faced by the Moabites. This trembling can be seen as a metaphor for the ultimate judgment that all nations face before God, pointing to the need for repentance and reliance on divine mercy.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Heshbon
A significant city in ancient Moab, often associated with the Amorites before being conquered by the Israelites. It was a center of power and influence.

2. Elealeh
A nearby town to Heshbon, also part of Moab. It is often mentioned alongside Heshbon, indicating its close proximity and shared fate.

3. Jahaz
A location further from Heshbon and Elealeh, indicating the extent of the outcry and distress spreading through the land.

4. Moab
A nation descended from Lot, often in conflict with Israel. Moab's distress in this passage is a result of impending judgment.

5. Armed Men of Moab
Representing the military strength of Moab, their fear and trembling signify the severity of the threat they face.

Teaching Points

The Reality of Divine Judgment
God's judgment is real and affects nations and individuals. The distress of Moab serves as a reminder of the consequences of turning away from God.

The Power of Lamentation
The cries from Heshbon and Elealeh illustrate the deep sorrow and repentance that should accompany recognition of sin and impending judgment.

The Sovereignty of God Over Nations
Despite Moab's military strength, their fear and trembling highlight God's ultimate control over all nations and their destinies.

The Call to Repentance
The passage serves as a call to repentance, urging believers to turn back to God before facing similar distress and judgment.

The Importance of Heeding Prophetic Warnings
Just as Moab was warned through prophecy, believers today are called to heed the warnings found in Scripture and align their lives with God's will.

Bible Study Questions

1. What does the reaction of the armed men of Moab teach us about the limitations of human strength in the face of divine judgment?

2. How can the lamentation of Heshbon and Elealeh serve as a model for our own response to sin and the need for repentance?

3. In what ways does the prophecy against Moab in Isaiah 15:4 reflect God's sovereignty over nations, and how should this influence our view of current world events?

4. How can we apply the lessons from Moab's distress to our personal lives, particularly in terms of recognizing and responding to God's warnings?

5. What other biblical examples of divine judgment can we study to gain a deeper understanding of God's justice and mercy? How do these examples encourage us to live righteously?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Jeremiah 48
This chapter parallels Isaiah 15, providing a similar prophecy against Moab, emphasizing the theme of judgment and lamentation.

Numbers 21
Describes the historical context of Heshbon and Elealeh, including their conquest by the Israelites, which sets the stage for their significance in later prophecies.

Psalm 60
Reflects on God's sovereignty over nations, including Moab, reinforcing the theme of divine judgment and control.