Isaiah 21:2

A dire vision is declared to me: "The traitor still betrays, and the destroyer still destroys. Go up, O Elam! Lay siege, O Media! I will put an end to all her groaning."

Study Bible

A dire vision
The phrase "a dire vision" in Isaiah 21:2 sets the tone for the entire passage. The Hebrew word for "vision" is "חָזוֹן" (chazon), which often refers to a prophetic revelation given by God. This vision is described as "dire," indicating its severe and ominous nature. In the context of Isaiah, this vision pertains to the impending judgment and destruction of Babylon. Historically, Babylon was a powerful empire, and its fall would have been a significant event. The use of "dire" underscores the seriousness of the prophecy and the certainty of God's judgment against nations that oppose His will.

has been shown to me
The phrase "has been shown to me" emphasizes the divine origin of the vision. Isaiah, as a prophet, is a recipient of God's revelation. The passive construction suggests that Isaiah is not the source of the vision but merely the conduit through which God communicates His message. This highlights the role of prophets in the Old Testament as spokespersons for God, delivering messages that often included warnings, judgments, and calls for repentance.

The traitor betrays
"The traitor betrays" is a powerful statement reflecting the theme of treachery and deceit. The Hebrew root for "traitor" is "בָּגַד" (bagad), which conveys the idea of betrayal or treachery. In the historical context, this could refer to the political alliances and betrayals that were common in the ancient Near East. Spiritually, it serves as a reminder of the consequences of unfaithfulness to God and His covenant. Betrayal leads to destruction, both for individuals and nations.

the plunderer takes loot
This phrase, "the plunderer takes loot," continues the theme of destruction and chaos. The Hebrew word for "plunderer" is "שׁוֹדֵד" (shoded), which means one who violently takes spoils. This imagery is consistent with the historical context of warfare in the ancient world, where conquering armies would plunder defeated cities. It serves as a metaphor for the spiritual desolation that occurs when people turn away from God and pursue their own selfish desires.

Elam, attack! Media, lay siege!
The call for "Elam, attack! Media, lay siege!" is a direct command for these nations to rise against Babylon. Elam and Media were regions known for their military prowess. Historically, the Medes and Persians, under Cyrus the Great, would eventually conquer Babylon. This prophecy demonstrates God's sovereignty over nations and His ability to use them as instruments of His judgment. It also foreshadows the eventual liberation of the Israelites from Babylonian captivity.

I will bring to an end all the groaning she caused
The phrase "I will bring to an end all the groaning she caused" speaks to the ultimate justice and restoration that God promises. The "groaning" refers to the suffering and oppression experienced by those under Babylon's rule. The Hebrew word for "groaning" is "אָנָחָה" (anachah), which conveys deep distress and lamentation. God's promise to end this groaning is a message of hope and assurance that He will not allow injustice to prevail indefinitely. It reflects the biblical theme of God's deliverance and the establishment of His righteous kingdom.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Isaiah
The prophet who receives and conveys the vision. He is a major prophet in the Old Testament, known for his messages of judgment and hope.

2. Elam
An ancient kingdom located in what is now southwestern Iran. In this context, Elam is called to rise up against Babylon.

3. Media
Another ancient kingdom, located in the region of modern-day northwestern Iran. Media is also called to lay siege against Babylon.

4. The Traitor and the Destroyer
These terms likely refer to Babylon, known for its treachery and destruction. Babylon is often depicted as a symbol of human pride and rebellion against God.

5. The Groaning
This refers to the suffering and oppression caused by Babylon, which God promises to end through the actions of Elam and Media.

Teaching Points

God's Sovereignty Over Nations
God is in control of the rise and fall of nations. He uses them to accomplish His purposes, even when they are unaware of His plans.

The Certainty of Divine Justice
God's justice will prevail. The oppressor will face consequences, and the suffering of the oppressed will be addressed.

The Role of Prophecy
Prophecy serves as both a warning and a comfort. It warns the wicked of impending judgment and comforts the righteous with the promise of deliverance.

Trust in God's Timing
God's plans unfold in His perfect timing. Believers are called to trust in His timing, even when it seems delayed.

The Call to Righteousness
As God judges nations for their betrayal and destruction, believers are reminded to live righteously and justly, avoiding the sins that lead to judgment.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the prophecy against Babylon in Isaiah 21:2 demonstrate God's sovereignty over world events?

2. In what ways can the fall of Babylon serve as a warning to modern nations and individuals?

3. How does the fulfillment of this prophecy in Daniel 5 encourage believers to trust in God's promises?

4. What are some areas in your life where you need to trust in God's timing, as seen in the prophecy's eventual fulfillment?

5. How can the themes of justice and righteousness in Isaiah 21:2 inspire you to live a life that honors God today?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Jeremiah 51
This chapter also speaks of the fall of Babylon, emphasizing God's judgment against the city for its sins and oppression.

Daniel 5
The fall of Babylon is depicted during the reign of Belshazzar, where the Medes and Persians conquer the city, fulfilling the prophecy.

Revelation 18
Babylon is used symbolically to represent the ultimate fall of worldly systems opposed to God, echoing the themes of judgment found in Isaiah.