Isaiah 16

Isaiah 16:1

16:1, 2 The description of Moab’s devastation continues in chapter 16. The Moabites who have fled to Sela (Petra, Edom capital) for refuge are counseled to send the tribute lamb to the ruler of the land (the king of Judah) in the mountain of the daughter of Zion (Jerusalem) as they had previously sent lambs to Samaria (2Ki_3:4). The people are nervously agitated over their impending calamity. 16:3-5 The Lord counsels Moab to hide God’s Jewish outcasts, as if in a dark shadow, to provide sanctuary and safety for them. The spoiler, extortioner, and oppressor will cease, and the Lord will reign on the throne . . . of David . . . in mercy, truth, justice, and righteousness. 16:6-12 The downfall of Moab is caused by his pride and haughtiness. There is widespread mourning in the land. The fertile fields of Heshbon are bare, and the luxuriant vines of Sibmah are ruined. Again the prophet himself mourns over the widespread ruin. When Moab prays to his idols, no help will come. 16:13, 14 To God’s previous prophecies concerning the fall of Moab, He now adds the information that it will happen within three years, as the years of a hired mani.e., not a minute longer than the agreed time.