Isaiah 17:9

In that day their strong cities will be like forsaken thickets and summits, abandoned to the Israelites and to utter desolation.

Study Bible

In that day
This phrase often signals a prophetic declaration, pointing to a specific time of divine intervention or judgment. In the Hebrew context, "that day" refers to a future event determined by God. It is a reminder of God's sovereignty over time and history, emphasizing that He has appointed times for both judgment and redemption.

their strong cities
The term "strong cities" refers to fortified places that were considered secure and impenetrable. In ancient times, cities with strong walls were symbols of power and protection. The Hebrew word for "strong" conveys might and strength, suggesting that even the most fortified human defenses are vulnerable to God's judgment.

will be like abandoned places
The imagery of abandonment evokes a sense of desolation and neglect. In the Hebrew context, abandonment often signifies divine judgment, where once-thriving places are left deserted. This serves as a warning that reliance on human strength and fortifications is futile without God's favor.

in the thickets
Thickets are dense groups of bushes or trees, often associated with wild, untamed areas. The mention of thickets suggests a return to chaos and disorder, a reversal from cultivated civilization to wilderness. This imagery underscores the consequences of turning away from God, leading to spiritual and physical desolation.

like the branches that were abandoned before the Israelites
This phrase recalls the historical context of the conquest of Canaan, where the inhabitants were driven out before the Israelites. The "branches" symbolize the remnants of those who were displaced. It serves as a reminder of God's past actions in history, reinforcing the certainty of His future judgments.

and the land will be desolate
Desolation is a recurring theme in prophetic literature, symbolizing the result of divine judgment. The Hebrew word for "desolate" conveys emptiness and ruin. This stark outcome serves as a call to repentance, urging the people to turn back to God to avoid such a fate. The desolation of the land is both a literal and spiritual warning of the consequences of forsaking God.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Isaiah
A major prophet in the Old Testament, Isaiah is the author of the book. He prophesied during the reigns of several kings of Judah and is known for his messages of judgment and hope.

2. Israelites
The descendants of Jacob, also known as Israel. They are God's chosen people, often depicted in the Bible as experiencing cycles of faithfulness and rebellion.

3. Strong Cities
Refers to the fortified cities of Israel and possibly Syria, which were seen as symbols of security and strength but are prophesied to become desolate.

4. Thickets
Dense growths of shrubs or small trees, symbolizing neglect and abandonment in this context.

5. Desolation
A state of emptiness and destruction, often used in the Bible to describe the consequences of turning away from God.

Teaching Points

The Consequences of Abandoning God
Just as the strong cities were abandoned, turning away from God leads to spiritual desolation. We must remain faithful to avoid such outcomes.

The Illusion of Security
Earthly strongholds, like fortified cities, can give a false sense of security. True security is found only in God.

The Call to Repentance
Desolation serves as a wake-up call to return to God. We should heed warnings and seek repentance before facing consequences.

God's Sovereignty in Judgment
God's judgments are just and serve a purpose. Understanding His sovereignty helps us trust His plans even in difficult times.

Hope Beyond Desolation
While desolation is a theme of judgment, it also points to the hope of restoration for those who turn back to God.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the imagery of abandoned cities in Isaiah 17:9 reflect the spiritual state of Israel at the time?

2. In what ways do we see modern parallels to the "strong cities" that people rely on today instead of God?

3. How can we apply the lessons of desolation and repentance in our personal lives and communities?

4. What other biblical examples illustrate the consequences of abandoning God, and how do they reinforce the message of Isaiah 17:9?

5. How can we find hope and assurance in God's promises even when facing the consequences of our actions?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Deuteronomy 28
This chapter outlines the blessings for obedience and curses for disobedience, including desolation as a consequence of turning away from God.

Jeremiah 4:7
Jeremiah also speaks of desolation as a result of judgment, emphasizing the theme of divine retribution for sin.

2 Kings 17
Describes the fall of the Northern Kingdom of Israel, which aligns with the prophecy of desolation due to their abandonment of God.