Analysis of Isaiah Chapter 19
Isaiah 19 is a profound chapter that addresses the prophecy concerning Egypt. This chapter is one of the “burdens” or “oracles” that the prophet Isaiah has concerning the nations surrounding Israel, reflecting God’s sovereignty over all nations. A comprehensive analysis reveals the deep layers within Isaiah’s prophecy, uncovering the divine messages both of judgment and eventual restoration. The chapter is divided into three main sections, each offering different aspects of God’s plan and insights into His character and dealings with nations.
1. The Judgment on Egypt (Verses 1-15)
The first section of Isaiah 19 focuses on the judgment which God is pronouncing over Egypt. This judgment is depicted through graphic and potent imagery that illustrates the chaos and destruction that will come upon the nation. Within these verses, there are key elements that warrant closer analysis:
Verse 1: “The burden of Egypt. Behold, the Lord rideth upon a swift cloud, and shall come into Egypt: and the idols of Egypt shall be moved at his presence, and the heart of Egypt shall melt in the midst of it.”
Here, the imagery of the Lord riding on a swift cloud signifies His rapid and powerful intervention. This portrays the omnipresence and omnipotence of God, who is not confined to Israel but can manifest His presence and execute judgment against other nations. This verse also indicates the impotence of Egypt’s idols in the face of the true God, showcasing the futility of their reliance on false gods.
Verse 2: “And I will set the Egyptians against the Egyptians: and they shall fight every one against his brother, and every one against his neighbour; city against city, and kingdom against kingdom.”
The internal conflict prophesied here speaks to a period of civil strife and disunity. When a nation is divided, its downfall is imminent, according to this prophetic theme. This verse demonstrates that part of God’s judgment involves allowing nations to turn against themselves, undermining their stability from within.
Verses 3-4: “And the spirit of Egypt shall fail in the midst thereof; and I will destroy the counsel thereof: and they shall seek to the idols, and to the charmers, and to them that have familiar spirits, and to the wizards. And the Egyptians will I give over into the hand of a cruel lord; and a fierce king shall rule over them, saith the Lord, the LORD of hosts.”
The Egyptians’ reliance on occult practices is revealed to be futile. Their spiritual and political leaders will fail them, leading to utter despair. Furthermore, the prophecy of a cruel ruler indicates that divine judgment includes subjugation under harsh leadership, exacerbating their suffering.
Verses 5-10: “And the waters shall fail from the sea, and the river shall be wasted and dried up… The fishers also shall mourn, and all they that cast angle into the brooks shall lament, and they that spread nets upon the waters shall languish… And they shall be broken in the purposes thereof, all that make sluices and ponds for fish.”
The mention of the drying up of the Nile River is striking because it is the lifeblood of Egypt, essential for both agricultural and economic sustenance. The failure of the Nile symbolizes total economic collapse and environmental disaster. The specific mention of fishers and affected trades underscores the widespread impact of this catastrophe on every level of society.
Verses 11-15: “Surely the princes of Zoan are fools, the counsel of the wise counsellors of Pharaoh is become brutish: how say ye unto Pharaoh, I am the son of the wise, the son of ancient kings?… Moreover they that work in fine flax, and they that weave networks, shall be confounded… Neither shall there be any work for Egypt, which the head or tail, branch or rush, may do.”
In these verses, the failure of Egypt’s wisdom and leadership is lamented. The term “princes of Zoan” refers to the leaders of one of Egypt’s major cities, known for its wisdom. However, Isaiah discredits their wisdom as foolishness, underscoring that genuine guidance and insight come from God alone. The collapse of the economic system is again emphasized, with all socioeconomic classes being affected.
2. The Future Blessing of Egypt (Verses 16-22)
In a dramatic shift, Isaiah transitions from prophesying judgment to delivering a message of hope and future salvation for Egypt. In this section, Egypt’s eventual recognition of God and subsequent blessing are highlighted.
Verse 16: “In that day shall Egypt be like unto women: and it shall be afraid and fear because of the shaking of the hand of the LORD of hosts, which he shaketh over it.”
This verse uses a metaphor common in ancient literature where depicting a nation’s military might failing is akin to comparing them to women, symbolizing vulnerability and fear. The “shaking of the hand of the LORD” signifies divine intervention that instills fear and leads to a humbling of Egypt before God.
Verses 17-18: “And the land of Judah shall be a terror unto Egypt, every one that maketh mention thereof shall be afraid in himself, because of the counsel of the LORD of hosts, which he hath determined against it. In that day shall five cities in the land of Egypt speak the language of Canaan, and swear to the LORD of hosts; one shall be called, The city of destruction.”
This prophecy foresees a future where Egypt will revere and fear Judah, recognizing God’s hand on it. The reference to “five cities in the land of Egypt” speaking the language of Canaan suggests a significant cultural and religious shift towards the worship of the true God. The term “city of destruction” could alternatively be translated as “City of the Sun,” indicating a profound transformation and dedication to God.
Verses 19-22: “In that day shall there be an altar to the LORD in the midst of the land of Egypt, and a pillar at the border thereof to the LORD. And it shall be for a sign and for a witness unto the LORD of hosts in the land of Egypt: for they shall cry unto the LORD because of the oppressors, and he shall send them a saviour, and a great one, and he shall deliver them. And the LORD shall be known to Egypt, and the Egyptians shall know the LORD in that day, and shall do sacrifice and oblation; yea, they shall vow a vow unto the LORD, and perform it. And the LORD shall smite Egypt: he shall smite and heal it: and they shall return even to the LORD, and he shall be intreated of them, and shall heal them.”
This passage culminates in a vision of Egypt’s spiritual revival. The establishment of an altar and pillar signifies the acknowledgment and worship of the LORD within Egypt. The mention of a savior reflects a Messianic anticipation intertwined with Israel’s core beliefs, indicating divine deliverance and restoration. God’s smiting and healing denote a process of discipline that leads to repentance and reconciliation.
3. The End-Time Alliance of Egypt, Assyria, and Israel (Verses 23-25)
The final section of Isaiah 19 prophesies an unprecedented alliance between Egypt, Assyria, and Israel, reflecting a messianic vision of unity and peace among former adversaries.
Verse 23: “In that day shall there be a highway out of Egypt to Assyria, and the Assyrian shall come into Egypt, and the Egyptian into Assyria, and the Egyptians shall serve with the Assyrians.”
The highway symbolizes open communication, peace, and collaboration between these nations, breaking barriers of enmity and division. It indicates a divine plan of universal reconciliation and peace, transcending political and historical hostilities.
Verses 24-25: “In that day shall Israel be the third with Egypt and with Assyria, even a blessing in the midst of the land: Whom the LORD of hosts shall bless, saying, Blessed be Egypt my people, and Assyria the work of my hands, and Israel mine inheritance.”
This vision is breathtakingly inclusive, depicting Egypt as “my people,” Assyria as “the work of my hands,” and Israel as “mine inheritance.” Such a comprehensive inclusion reflects the ultimate plan of redemption and unity under God’s sovereignty. The acknowledgment of these different groups as part of God’s larger plan asserts His universal kingship and grace.
Conclusion
Isaiah Chapter 19 offers a rich tapestry of divine judgment, repentance, and ultimate redemption. Initially, it presents a sobering picture of Egypt’s downfall due to its idolatry, disunity, and pride. Yet, it transitions into a hopeful vision where Egypt, having experienced God’s discipline, turns to true worship and acknowledges the LORD. The chapter culminates in an eschatological vision of international reconciliation and divine blessing, illustrating a profound unity in God’s redemptive plan.
This chapter challenges readers to understand God’s sovereignty over all nations and the transformative power of His grace. It serves as a testament to the belief that no nation or people are beyond God’s reach and redemption. The comprehensive detail in Isaiah’s prophecy calls for deeper reflection on the nature of God’s justice and mercy and encourages believers to trust in His ultimate plan for peace and unity.