Isaiah 13 3

Isaiah 13:3 kjv

I have commanded my sanctified ones, I have also called my mighty ones for mine anger, even them that rejoice in my highness.

Isaiah 13:3 nkjv

I have commanded My sanctified ones; I have also called My mighty ones for My anger? Those who rejoice in My exaltation."

Isaiah 13:3 niv

I have commanded those I prepared for battle; I have summoned my warriors to carry out my wrath? those who rejoice in my triumph.

Isaiah 13:3 esv

I myself have commanded my consecrated ones, and have summoned my mighty men to execute my anger, my proudly exulting ones.

Isaiah 13:3 nlt

I, the LORD, have dedicated these soldiers for this task.
Yes, I have called mighty warriors to express my anger,
and they will rejoice when I am exalted."

Isaiah 13 verses

Isaiah 13 3 Meaning

The verse proclaims a divine call to action, an assembly of kings and warriors commanded by God to carry out His wrath and judgment against the proud and wicked. It signifies God's preparation for war, targeting nations who have acted presumptuously and without regard for His authority.

Isaiah 13 3 Context

Isaiah chapter 13 functions as a prophecy against Babylon, referred to in the prophecy as "Merodach" which is an archaic name for the god Marduk, associated with Babylon. The chapter sets the stage for divine judgment on this powerful and often oppressive empire. Verse 3 specifically introduces the instrument of this judgment – a confederation of nations, mobilized by God's command. The historical context points to the might of the Babylonian empire, which at this time was a dominant force in the ancient Near East, known for its military prowess and expansionist policies. The prophet Isaiah is addressing the people of Judah, forewarning them of God's impending judgment on Babylon and offering a glimmer of hope that their enemies will ultimately be judged.

Isaiah 13 3 Word Analysis

• Tsāwā’ (צָבָא): Translated as "host" or "army." This word denotes a great multitude or assembly, often military in nature. It emphasizes the organized and formidable force being gathered. God, the "LORD of hosts" (Yahweh Tsabaoth), is Himself assembling this army, highlighting His sovereignty over all military power.

• Maqqôd (מַקֹּד): Translated as "consecrated" or "sanctified." This term conveys a sense of being set apart for a specific, often holy or dreadful, purpose. In this context, it means these warriors are made holy unto war by God's decree; they are set apart for His judgment against Babylon.

• Qĕdôshim (קְדֹשִׁים): Plural of qāḏôš (קָדוֹשׁ), meaning "holy ones." Here, it refers to those who are made holy or set apart for God's purpose, which in this instance is to execute His judgment. It implies that even pagan nations, when used by God, are instruments of His justice.

• Ṣərîrîm (צְרִירִים): Translated as "chosen" or "selected." This word suggests that the individuals making up this army have been specifically chosen and designated for this task by God.

• Yaḥdô (יַחְדָּיו): Translated as "together" or "unitedly." This indicates their unified action and common purpose under God's direction.

• Gĕ’ehîm (גֵּאִים): Translated as "proud" or "haughty." This describes the characteristic of the enemy being judged—Babylon—whose pride was a primary reason for God's condemnation.

• Ōnĕgîm (עֹנְגִּים): Translated as "exulting" or "rejoicing." This points to the presumptuous joy and confidence the nations had in their own strength, unmindful of divine retribution.

Words Group Analysis

• "I have commanded my consecrated ones": This phrase underscores divine orchestration. God isn't merely predicting an event; He is actively commanding His instruments, making them holy for His purpose of judgment. The nations mobilized are His "sanctified" or "holy ones" because they are set apart by His sovereign will to carry out His justice.

• "I have also called my mighty ones": This refers to the powerful forces God has chosen. These are not necessarily righteous people but those who are strong and capable, chosen by God to enact His will. They are "mighty ones" because God grants them that might for His purposes.

• "For mine anger, and for the lifting up of my voice against them to execute them": This clearly states the purpose of the mobilized army. They are instruments of God's wrath, called forth to give voice to His anger and to carry out the execution of judgment upon the proud nations.

Isaiah 13 3 Bonus Section

This verse serves as an early example of the "day of the LORD" prophecies found throughout the Old Testament. It illustrates how God uses geopolitical events and military power to fulfill His purposes and bring judgment upon sin. The concept of God "consecrating" warriors for judgment can be understood as them being set apart by divine decree, irrespective of their personal righteousness, to serve His purposes. This is seen again when God uses the Assyrians to punish the Northern Kingdom of Israel and the Babylonians to conquer Judah, as both were instruments of His justice despite their own sinful natures.

Isaiah 13 3 Commentary

Isaiah 13:3 is a profound declaration of divine sovereignty over all the nations and even over the instruments of war. God is portrayed as the ultimate commander, mobilizing a multinational force for His specific purposes. The prophecy reveals that even pagan nations, in their pride and power, can be used by God to judge other ungodly nations. This passage underscores that God’s judgment is not arbitrary; it is directed against the proud and the presumptuous who defy His authority. The language of "consecrated" and "mighty ones" highlights that those who carry out divine judgment, though perhaps wicked themselves, are set apart and empowered by God for this singular task. This principle of God using unintended instruments for His divine plan is a recurring theme throughout scripture, pointing to His absolute control over history and human events. It is a stern warning against pride and defiance of God's will.