Isaiah 22:12

On that day the Lord GOD of Hosts called for weeping and wailing, for shaven heads and the wearing of sackcloth.

Study Bible

On that day
This phrase refers to a specific time of judgment and calamity. In the context of Isaiah 22, it is a prophecy concerning the impending siege of Jerusalem. The "day" often signifies a period of divine intervention or judgment in biblical literature, echoing the "Day of the Lord" theme found throughout the prophets.

the Lord GOD of Hosts
This title emphasizes God's supreme authority and power over all heavenly and earthly armies. It underscores His sovereignty in executing judgment. The term "Hosts" refers to the angelic armies, highlighting God's control over both spiritual and earthly realms.

called for weeping and wailing
Weeping and wailing are traditional expressions of mourning and repentance in ancient Near Eastern cultures. This call indicates a divine expectation for the people to recognize their sins and turn back to God in genuine sorrow. It reflects a common prophetic theme where God desires repentance over ritual.

for shaven heads
Shaving the head was a sign of mourning and humiliation in ancient Israelite culture. It symbolized the stripping away of pride and self-reliance. This act is seen in other biblical contexts, such as Job's response to his suffering (Job 1:20) and the mourning practices in Micah 1:16.

and the wearing of sackcloth
Sackcloth, a coarse material made from goat's hair, was worn as a sign of penitence and mourning. It is frequently mentioned in the Bible as a physical manifestation of inner contrition and humility before God. This practice is seen in other scriptures, such as Jonah 3:5-6, where the people of Nineveh wore sackcloth in response to Jonah's warning.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The Lord GOD of Hosts
This title emphasizes God's supreme authority and power over all heavenly armies. It underscores His sovereignty and the seriousness of His call to repentance.

2. Isaiah
The prophet through whom God delivers His message. Isaiah's role is to communicate God's call for repentance to the people of Judah.

3. Judah
The southern kingdom of Israel, which is the primary audience of Isaiah's prophecy. The people of Judah are being called to repentance due to their disobedience and lack of trust in God.

4. Weeping and Wailing
Traditional expressions of mourning and repentance in ancient Israel. These actions signify a deep sorrow for sin and a desire to return to God.

5. Shaving of Heads and Wearing of Sackcloth
Cultural practices in the ancient Near East that symbolize humility, penitence, and mourning. These acts are outward signs of an inward contrition.

Teaching Points

The Call to Repentance
God desires genuine repentance from His people. This involves not just outward expressions but a heartfelt return to Him.

The Seriousness of Sin
The call for weeping and wailing highlights the gravity of sin and the need for sincere contrition.

Cultural Expressions of Repentance
While cultural practices may differ, the underlying principle of humility and turning back to God remains constant.

God's Sovereignty and Mercy
Even in judgment, God provides an opportunity for repentance, demonstrating His desire for restoration rather than destruction.

Reflecting on Personal Repentance
Consider how we respond to God's call for repentance in our own lives. Are we truly sorrowful for our sins, and do we seek to change our ways?

Bible Study Questions

1. What does the title "Lord GOD of Hosts" reveal about God's character and His authority in calling for repentance?

2. How do the cultural practices of weeping, wailing, shaving heads, and wearing sackcloth relate to modern expressions of repentance?

3. In what ways can we ensure that our repentance is genuine and not merely an outward show?

4. How does the call to repentance in Isaiah 22:12 connect with the message of repentance found in the New Testament?

5. Reflect on a time when you felt called to repentance. How did you respond, and what changes did you make in your life as a result?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Joel 2:12-13
This passage also calls for genuine repentance, emphasizing the need to return to God with all one's heart, with fasting, weeping, and mourning.

James 4:9-10
James echoes the call to humble oneself before the Lord, expressing sorrow for sin and seeking God's grace.

Matthew 11:21
Jesus references the cities of Chorazin and Bethsaida, lamenting their lack of repentance despite witnessing His miracles, similar to the call for repentance in Isaiah.