Isaiah 22

1 the valley of vision. That is, Jerusalem; called a “valley” because, though seated on hills, it was surrounded by hills still higher, with valleys between them; and “of vision,” as the place where God’s presence was manifested. The prophecy relates to some period when the city was besieged, most likely by Sennacherib. The picture of a besieged city, famished and imperilled, yet trusting in its defences, while the inhabitants sought to drown their fears in revelry, is depicted with indignant force.

that thou art wholly gone up, etc. Crowding to every place from which a view of the invading force could be obtained: in eager curiosity, mingled with vain confidence.

2 a joyous city. Full of reckless self-indulgence: see ver. 13.

not slain with the sword. The mortality was most probably from famine and plague, the consequences of the siege: comp. Lam. iv. 9.

3. They are bound by the archers. Or, as R.V. marg., “they are made prisoners without the bow.” They make no resistance. Their self-confidence has led to humiliation.

5 crying to mountains. Their cry reaches the surrounding hills, which re-echo it.

6. Elam . . . Kir. Two of the tribes composing the Assyrian force,—Elam (see on xxi. 2) on the east, greatly famed for bowmen (Jer. xlix. 35; Ezek. xxxii. 24), and Kir (Armenia) on the west. These represent the two extremes of Assyria’s dominions. -

8 he discovered the covering. Rather, “he took away the covering” (R.V.)—“the curtain or covering which made Judah blind to the threatened danger” (Delitzsch).

the house of the forest. See note on 1 Kings vii. 2. This palace was intended for, or converted into, an arsenal.

9 the waters of the lower pool. Comp. 2 Chron. xxxii. 3, 4.

10 ye have numbered the houses of Jerusalem. Probably to ascertain how many of them could be spared for the repair of the wall.

11 a ditch. Rather, “a reservoir”: (see 2 Kings xx. 20). See on this whole passage, Macalister: A Century of Excavation in Palestine, chapter ii., “Topography.”

VERS. 15-25. This section illustrates the character and action of those who at this crisis brought about the national disasters. Shebna, an official in the court of Hezekiah, opposed the calls of the prophets, and encouraged the people in rebellion against Jehovah. He is to be degraded from his office, and sent into captivity (15-19), while his place is to be filled by a faithful counsellor (20-25). To a certain extent, he seems to have regained his position, as he re-appears in the same reign, although in a lower office (xxxvi. 3).

16. What hast thou here? The prophet may be supposed to have addressed Shebna while superintending the excavation of his superb tomb; and then to have pointed to it, saying, “He is hewing out,” etc. “Here” is thrice repeated, as emphatic.

17 will carry thee away with a mighty captivity. Rather, “will hurl thee forth far away with a man’s throw.”

will surely cover thee. Or, “will lay fast hold on thee” (R.V. marg.)

18 violently turn thee, etc. Lit., “rolling will roll thee [as] a roll, [and toss thee] like a ball”: comp. R.V. and marg.

And there the chariots of thy glory, etc. Rather, as R.V., “And there shall be the chariots of thy glory, thou shame of thy lord’s house.”

20 my servant Eliakim. Nothing more is known of Eliakim than that he afterwards appears in Shebna’s post (xxxvi. 3; 2 Kings xviii. 18).

21 a father. The prime minister was so called: see Gen. xlv. 8.

22 the key of the house of David, etc. That is, he shall enjoy high political authority. Our Lord appropriates these words to Himself (Rev. iii. 7), to intimate His power in the Church.

23 a nail in a sure place. A large nail or peg was usually inserted into the walls of Oriental houses to hang things upon. Here it denotes figuratively the security of Eliakim’s position, and his ability to confer wealth and honour on his family: see Zech. x. 4.

a glorious throne. Or, “a seat of glory.” His father’s house, and all of his own family, shall be supported by him.

24. From the vessels of cups, etc. All who belonged to Eliakim, whatever might be their stations or employments, would be benefited by his elevation.

25 the nail that is fastened. These words refer to Eliakim: so making the lesson to the great ones of the land the more impressive and complete.