Bible Verse Commentary: Isaiah 19:16

Verse: "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." (Isaiah 19:16)

Understanding Isaiah 19:16

Isaiah 19:16 provides insight into the impending judgment upon Egypt. The metaphor of Egypt becoming "like unto women" indicates vulnerability, suggesting that the once mighty nation will experience fear and trembling in the face of divine intervention.

Commentary Insights

• Matthew Henry: Henry notes that in this verse, Isaiah predicts a time when the strength of Egypt will be diminished, portraying them as frightened and incapacitated due to God's overwhelming power. He highlights the transformation from a formidable nation to one gripped by fear, underscoring the sovereignty of God over nations.
• Albert Barnes: Barnes elaborates on the symbolism of women in this context. He explains that the depiction of Egypt as feminine implies a loss of strength and a state of fearfulness. He suggests that this fear arises from the consciousness of God's power being displayed over Egypt, illustrating divine authority and the futility of resisting it.
• Adam Clarke: Clarke interprets the 'shaking of the hand of the Lord' as a metaphor for divine judgment and intervention. He suggests that the shaking hand signifies God's readiness to exercise His authority, resulting in upheaval that leads to terror among the people of Egypt.

Meaning of Bible Verses

This verse encapsulates a broader theme found throughout Scripture regarding God's dominion over nations. The fear experienced by Egypt serves as a reminder of the consequences of defiance against God's will.

Bible Study Insights

Isaiah 19:16 offers deep layers of insight into God's plans for nations, inviting readers to reflect on:

• The relationship between divine power and human authority.
• The concept of vulnerability in the face of God's judgment.
• The encouragement to trust in God's sovereignty during troubling times.

Applying Bible Verses to Daily Life

In contexts of uncertainty and fear, this verse reminds believers of God's ultimate control over all situations.

Cross References

• Isaiah 30:3 - Speaks to the futility of seeking help from human powers against God's will.
• Jeremiah 46:18 - A commentary on Egypt's impending doom as a direct result of God's judgment.
• Ezekiel 30:4 - Discusses the coming troubles upon Egypt, paralleling the themes in Isaiah 19.

Conclusion

Isaiah 19:16 serves as a critical verse for understanding the nature of God's judgment and power over nations. The analysis provided through respected public domain commentaries helps illuminate the meaning of this passage, offering a rich resource for Bible study groups and individuals engaged in online Bible study.

For those seeking deeper Bible verse interpretations and commentary, reflecting on this passage through various lens can provide significant insights into understanding Scripture and its applications for daily living.