Isaiah 20:6

And on that day the dwellers of this coastland will say, 'See what has happened to our source of hope, those to whom we fled for help and deliverance from the king of Assyria! How then can we escape?'"

Study Bible

And on that day
This phrase indicates a specific time of fulfillment, often used in prophetic literature to denote a future event. In the context of Isaiah, it refers to the time when the prophecy against Egypt and Cush (modern-day Ethiopia) would be realized. This emphasizes the certainty of God's word coming to pass.

the dwellers of this coastland
The "coastland" refers to the regions along the Mediterranean Sea, likely including Philistia and other nearby territories. These areas were often caught between the major powers of Egypt and Assyria, making them vulnerable to political and military upheaval.

will say, ‘See what has happened to our source of hope,
Egypt and Cush were seen as powerful allies capable of providing military support against Assyrian aggression. The phrase highlights the misplaced trust in human power rather than in God. This serves as a warning against relying on worldly alliances instead of divine protection.

those to whom we fled for help and deliverance
Historically, smaller nations often sought refuge and assistance from larger, more powerful neighbors. This reflects the political dynamics of the ancient Near East, where vassal states would seek protection from dominant empires. The failure of Egypt and Cush to provide deliverance underscores the futility of trusting in human strength.

from the king of Assyria!
The Assyrian Empire was a dominant force during Isaiah's time, known for its military prowess and expansionist policies. The mention of the Assyrian king underscores the immediate threat faced by the nations and the fear he instilled. This context highlights the geopolitical tension and the need for divine intervention.

How then can we escape?’”
This rhetorical question captures the despair and helplessness of the people when their expected deliverers fail. It serves as a call to recognize the sovereignty of God and the need to place trust in Him alone. The question also echoes the broader biblical theme of seeking salvation and deliverance through God rather than human means.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Dwellers of the Coastland
Refers to the inhabitants of the regions along the Mediterranean Sea, likely including Philistia and other nearby territories.

2. Source of Hope
This phrase refers to Egypt and Cush (modern-day Ethiopia), whom the people of the coastland looked to for military and political support against Assyria.

3. King of Assyria
Represents the Assyrian Empire, a dominant power during Isaiah's time, known for its military conquests and expansion.

4. Isaiah
The prophet who delivered God's message, warning of the futility of relying on foreign powers instead of God.

5. Event of Judgment
The prophecy foretells the downfall of Egypt and Cush, demonstrating the futility of relying on human alliances.

Teaching Points

Trust in God Alone
The passage underscores the futility of placing hope in human powers or alliances. True deliverance comes from God alone.

The Danger of Misplaced Hope
Relying on worldly powers can lead to disappointment and despair. Our ultimate hope should be in God's sovereignty and faithfulness.

Prophetic Fulfillment as a Warning
The fulfillment of Isaiah's prophecy serves as a historical lesson on the consequences of ignoring God's warnings and relying on human strength.

God's Sovereignty Over Nations
This passage reminds us that God is in control of all nations and their destinies. We should seek His guidance and protection above all else.

Reflecting on Our Sources of Hope
In our lives, we should evaluate where we place our hope and ensure it aligns with God's will and promises.

Bible Study Questions

1. What does Isaiah 20:6 teach us about the reliability of human alliances compared to God's faithfulness?

2. How can we apply the lesson of misplaced hope in our modern context, especially when facing personal or national crises?

3. In what ways does the prophecy against Egypt and Cush serve as a warning for us today regarding where we place our trust?

4. How do other scriptures, such as Isaiah 31:1-3 and Psalm 118:8-9, reinforce the message of Isaiah 20:6?

5. Reflect on a time when you relied on something or someone other than God for deliverance. What did you learn from that experience, and how can it shape your future decisions?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Isaiah 31:1-3
This passage warns against relying on Egypt for help, emphasizing trust in God rather than human strength.

Psalm 118:8-9
These verses highlight the importance of trusting in the Lord over human leaders or nations.

2 Kings 18:21
This verse describes Egypt as a "splintered reed," unreliable and unable to provide true support.