Isaiah 15:6

The waters of Nimrim are dried up, and the grass is withered; the vegetation is gone, and the greenery is no more.

Study Bible

The waters of Nimrim are dried up
This phrase refers to the waters of Nimrim, likely a stream or series of springs in Moab, a region east of the Dead Sea. The drying up of these waters symbolizes desolation and judgment upon Moab. In the ancient Near East, water sources were vital for survival, agriculture, and prosperity. The drying up of water would indicate a severe crisis, reflecting God's judgment. This imagery is consistent with other biblical passages where water scarcity signifies divine retribution (e.g., Jeremiah 14:3-4).

and the grass is withered
The withering of grass further emphasizes the theme of desolation. Grass, often used in the Bible to symbolize life and prosperity, withering away indicates a loss of vitality and sustenance. This imagery is reminiscent of Isaiah 40:7-8, where the transient nature of human life is compared to grass that withers. The withering grass in Moab signifies the fading of its glory and strength under divine judgment.

the vegetation is gone
The absence of vegetation underscores the complete devastation of the land. Vegetation is essential for food, livestock, and economic stability. The loss of vegetation would lead to famine and economic collapse, highlighting the severity of the judgment. This aligns with the broader biblical theme of land suffering due to the people's sin, as seen in passages like Joel 1:10-12, where the land mourns due to the people's disobedience.

and the greenery is no more
The disappearance of greenery completes the picture of barrenness and ruin. Greenery often symbolizes life, growth, and prosperity. Its absence indicates a total lack of life and hope. This imagery can be connected to the broader biblical narrative of creation groaning under the weight of sin (Romans 8:22) and the ultimate hope of restoration through Christ, who brings life and renewal (John 10:10). The judgment on Moab serves as a reminder of the consequences of turning away from God and the hope of redemption through repentance and faith.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Nimrim
A location in Moab, likely known for its water sources. The drying up of its waters signifies a severe judgment and desolation.

2. Moab
A nation east of Israel, often in conflict with Israel. Isaiah 15 is a prophecy concerning the judgment and destruction of Moab.

3. Isaiah
The prophet who delivered this message. His prophecies often included both immediate and future fulfillments.

4. Judgment
The overarching theme of this passage, where God pronounces His judgment on Moab for their pride and idolatry.

5. Desolation
The result of God's judgment, depicted through the imagery of dried waters and withered vegetation.

Teaching Points

The Consequences of Sin
Just as Moab faced desolation due to their sin, we must recognize the serious consequences of turning away from God.

God's Sovereignty in Judgment
God's control over nature, as seen in the drying of Nimrim's waters, reminds us of His ultimate authority over all creation.

The Importance of Spiritual Vitality
The withered vegetation symbolizes spiritual barrenness. We are called to remain spiritually vibrant through a relationship with Christ.

Hope in Restoration
While judgment is pronounced, God's ultimate plan includes restoration and redemption for those who turn back to Him.

The Call to Repentance
This passage serves as a warning and a call to repentance, urging us to examine our lives and align with God's will.

Bible Study Questions

1. What does the drying up of the waters of Nimrim symbolize in the context of God's judgment on Moab, and how can this apply to our understanding of spiritual dryness?

2. How does the imagery of withered vegetation in Isaiah 15:6 compare to the flourishing tree in Psalm 1, and what does this teach us about the importance of spiritual nourishment?

3. In what ways does the prophecy against Moab in Isaiah 15 reflect God's justice and mercy, and how can we apply this understanding to our view of God's character?

4. How can the historical relationship between Israel and Moab, as seen in Genesis 19 and other scriptures, inform our understanding of the prophecy in Isaiah 15?

5. What steps can we take to ensure that we remain spiritually vibrant and avoid the desolation described in Isaiah 15:6?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Jeremiah 48
This chapter also contains a prophecy against Moab, echoing the themes of judgment and desolation found in Isaiah 15.

Psalm 1
Contrasts the withered vegetation in Isaiah 15:6 with the flourishing tree planted by streams of water, symbolizing the righteous who delight in God's law.

Revelation 16:12
Describes the drying up of the Euphrates River, symbolizing preparation for judgment, similar to the drying of Nimrim's waters.

Genesis 19
Provides background on Moab's origins, tracing back to Lot and his daughters, which sets the stage for understanding Moab's historical relationship with Israel.