Isaiah 47:2

Take millstones and grind flour; remove your veil; strip off your skirt, bare your thigh, and wade through the streams.

Study Bible

Take millstones
The phrase "Take millstones" refers to the act of grinding grain into flour, a task typically assigned to servants or women in ancient times. The Hebrew root for "millstones" is "רֵחַיִם" (reḥayim), which signifies the dual stones used for grinding. This imagery symbolizes a fall from power and luxury to a position of servitude and labor. Historically, Babylon, once a mighty empire, is being humbled and brought to a state of menial labor, indicating God's judgment and the reversal of fortunes.

and grind flour
Grinding flour was a labor-intensive task, often associated with the lowest social status. The Hebrew word for "grind" is "טָחַן" (taḥan), which conveys the idea of crushing or pulverizing. This action represents the humbling of Babylon, as the once proud and powerful city is reduced to performing the work of a servant. It serves as a metaphor for the dismantling of pride and the consequences of arrogance against God.

remove your veil
The instruction to "remove your veil" signifies the loss of dignity and status. In ancient Near Eastern culture, a veil was a symbol of modesty and respectability, often worn by women of higher status. The Hebrew word "צָעִיף" (tsa'if) for "veil" suggests a covering or a garment that conceals. The removal of the veil indicates exposure and vulnerability, reflecting Babylon's impending disgrace and the stripping away of its former glory.

strip off your skirt
"Strip off your skirt" continues the theme of exposure and humiliation. The Hebrew term "חֲצָרִים" (ḥaṣarim) for "skirt" refers to the outer garment or robe. This act of stripping away clothing symbolizes the removal of protection and honor, leaving Babylon bare and defenseless. It is a vivid portrayal of the city's impending shame and the divine judgment that will leave it exposed to the world.

bare your thigh
The phrase "bare your thigh" further emphasizes the theme of exposure and vulnerability. In ancient times, baring the thigh was considered indecent and shameful, especially for women. The Hebrew word "גַּלָּה" (galah) means to uncover or reveal. This act signifies the complete humiliation of Babylon, as it is laid bare before the nations, stripped of its power and prestige.

wade through the streams
"Wade through the streams" suggests a forced journey through difficult and humiliating circumstances. The Hebrew word "עָבַר" (avar) for "wade" implies passing through or crossing over. This imagery of wading through water can symbolize the trials and tribulations that Babylon will face as a result of its pride and defiance against God. It is a call to humility and repentance, as the once mighty city is brought low and made to endure hardship.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Babylon
A significant city and empire in ancient Mesopotamia, often symbolizing pride and idolatry in the Bible. In Isaiah 47, Babylon is personified as a woman who will face humiliation and judgment.

2. Daughter of the Chaldeans
This phrase refers to the inhabitants of Babylon, specifically highlighting their cultural and spiritual identity. The Chaldeans were known for their wisdom and astrology, which often led them away from the true God.

3. Isaiah
A major prophet in the Old Testament, Isaiah conveyed God's messages of judgment and redemption to the people of Israel and surrounding nations, including Babylon.

Teaching Points

Humility Before God
The passage serves as a reminder of the importance of humility. Babylon's pride led to its downfall, teaching us to remain humble before God and acknowledge His sovereignty.

Consequences of Idolatry
Babylon's reliance on false gods and practices resulted in judgment. We are called to examine our lives for any idols that may take precedence over our relationship with God.

God's Sovereignty Over Nations
Isaiah 47:2 illustrates that no nation or power is beyond God's control. This reassures believers that God is actively involved in the affairs of the world and will bring about His justice.

Repentance and Redemption
While the passage focuses on judgment, it also implicitly calls for repentance. Recognizing our sins and turning back to God can lead to redemption and restoration.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the imagery of Babylon's humiliation in Isaiah 47:2 challenge our understanding of power and pride in today's world?

2. In what ways can we identify and remove modern-day idols from our lives, drawing from the lessons of Babylon's downfall?

3. How does the theme of God's sovereignty in Isaiah 47:2 provide comfort and assurance in times of global uncertainty?

4. What practical steps can we take to cultivate humility in our personal and spiritual lives, in light of Babylon's example?

5. How can the message of repentance and redemption in Isaiah 47:2 inspire us to seek God's forgiveness and transformation in our daily walk with Him?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Revelation 18
This chapter describes the fall of Babylon the Great, drawing a parallel to the judgment pronounced in Isaiah 47. Both passages highlight the theme of divine retribution against pride and idolatry.

Jeremiah 50-51
These chapters also prophesy the downfall of Babylon, emphasizing God's sovereignty and justice in dealing with nations that oppose Him.

Proverbs 16:18
This verse speaks to the theme of pride leading to destruction, which is a central message in Isaiah 47:2 regarding Babylon's impending humiliation.