Isaiah 16 2

Isaiah 16:2 kjv

For it shall be, that, as a wandering bird cast out of the nest, so the daughters of Moab shall be at the fords of Arnon.

Isaiah 16:2 nkjv

For it shall be as a wandering bird thrown out of the nest; So shall be the daughters of Moab at the fords of the Arnon.

Isaiah 16:2 niv

Like fluttering birds pushed from the nest, so are the women of Moab at the fords of the Arnon.

Isaiah 16:2 esv

Like fleeing birds, like a scattered nest, so are the daughters of Moab at the fords of the Arnon.

Isaiah 16:2 nlt

The women of Moab are left like homeless birds
at the shallow crossings of the Arnon River.

Isaiah 16 verses

Isaiah 16 2 Meaning

This verse speaks of fugitive women from Moab finding refuge and succor in Israel, specifically in the "house of David." It describes them as vulnerable and displaced, seeking safety and aid, and anticipates a compassionate reception for them from Israel's leadership, signifying a shift in power and a foreshadowing of God's future restoration for Moab.

Isaiah 16 2 Context

Chapter 16 of Isaiah continues the prophecy concerning Moab, a nation that often stood in opposition to Israel. Following the preceding verses that urge Moab to send tribute and seek shelter in the "mountain of the daughter of Zion," this verse paints a picture of displaced Moabites actively seeking refuge. The historical context involves the threat of Assyrian or Babylonian conquest, which would cause widespread displacement and vulnerability among neighboring nations. This plea for refuge from Moab is placed within the broader prophetic scope of God's judgment and eventual restoration, where even traditional enemies might find a place of safety under His purview, linking the political and the divine.

Isaiah 16 2 Word Analysis

• "Like driven birds": (Hebrew: ki-oph owph niddah - "as birds flying swiftly," or "like a winged bird chased away"). This simile emphasizes panic, helplessness, and rapid, unorganized flight from danger. Birds that are hunted or migrating unnaturally illustrate extreme distress and displacement.

• "or like scattered]: (Hebrew: shephofeth ge'im - "scattered plumes," or "herds of cattle driven away"). This comparison evokes a sense of being dispersed and vulnerable, lacking cohesion or protection, similar to a herd stampeded and broken apart.

• "the daughters of Moab"]: Refers to the people of Moab collectively, emphasizing their vulnerability, especially the women, in times of crisis. Moabite lineage traces back to Lot, Abraham's nephew (Gen 19:37).

• "will be at the ford of]: (Hebrew: b'geymariyim - "at the fords of Arnon"). The Arnon River marked a significant border of Moab. Fords would be crossing points, often places of strategic importance or vulnerability during invasions.

• "the Arnon.": A major river flowing through Moab, mentioned multiple times in the Old Testament as a border marker (Num 21:13).

• "Flee"]: (Hebrew: nus - "to flee," "escape," "run away"). A direct command or description of action taken in haste and fear.

• "save yourselves": Implies a desperate attempt at self-preservation from impending doom.

• "Be refuge": (Hebrew: hibhal - "to shelter," "provide refuge," "to protect"). This speaks of the Moabites seeking protection and succor from an external power.

• "You are left]: (Hebrew: anat ‘azavu - "you who have left" or "you who have been left"). Could refer to those who have fled from Moab's territory or have been abandoned by their own defenses and leaders.

• "like]: (Hebrew: kemoh - "like," "as"). Introducing a simile for comparison.

• "an exotic bird]: (Hebrew: tzippor zur - literally "a bird of flint/rock" or a strange/rare bird). Suggests something unusual, out of place, and without a settled home or proper nesting.

• "strewn]: (Hebrew: shach - "scattered," "strown"). Implies desolation and a lack of order or purpose.

• "like]: (Hebrew: kemoh - "like," "as").

• "cattle lost.": (Hebrew: baqar shemamah - "stunned cattle," or "cattle devastated"). This comparison signifies complete disorientation, terror, and a lack of leadership, unable to find their way.

• "like]: (Hebrew: kemoh - "like," "as").

• "Calves]: (Hebrew: ‘egelah - "young cow," "heifer"). Often used metaphorically for those who are easily scattered or frightened.

• "lost]: (Hebrew: avudah - "lost," "perished").

• "the fords of the Arnon.": Signifies the territorial boundary and a place where one would pass through to escape.

• "Flee, save yourselves": The urgency of their situation and their active search for safety.

• "No refuge.": The desperate lack of safety within their own territory.

Isaiah 16 2 Bonus Section

The call to seek refuge in the "house of David" and "Mount Zion" from the "daughter of Zion" in verse 16:1 connects this verse to a broader theme of divine sovereignty and mercy. While Moab faced judgment, the prophetic vision extended to a future where even former adversaries might find sanctuary within God's protective sphere, particularly through the lineage of David. This theme resonates with Jesus' declaration that He would draw all people to Himself (John 12:32), fulfilling Old Testament prophecies about a broader inclusion of Gentiles. The desolate imagery here anticipates prophecies about judgment on cities (Isa 34:11-15, Zeph 2:6) but also serves as a backdrop for God's ultimate restoration, even for those outside of Israel.

Isaiah 16 2 Commentary

The imagery in Isaiah 16:2 is potent, depicting the Moabites in a state of utter panic and displacement, akin to frightened birds or stampeding cattle. This vulnerability arises from the impending judgment described in the preceding verses, likely due to their ongoing hostility towards God and His people. The prophet uses these vivid metaphors to convey the Moabites' desperate flight and their failure to find any security within their own land. The verse implies that their previous strengths or sanctuaries are now insufficient. The comparison to "driven birds" and "lost calves" highlights their loss of direction and ineffective struggle for survival. This condition stems from a lack of internal stability and perhaps the loss of leadership and protective structures that are described as being "left" or "scattered."