Isaiah 13:17

Behold, I will stir up against them the Medes, who have no regard for silver and no desire for gold.

Study Bible

Behold
The word "Behold" is a call to attention, urging the reader or listener to focus on the significant announcement that follows. In Hebrew, this is often translated from "הִנֵּה" (hinneh), which serves as a divine alert. It emphasizes the certainty and importance of God's actions. In the context of Isaiah, it signals a prophetic declaration that demands the audience's awareness and reflection on God's sovereign plans.

I will stir up
This phrase indicates divine intervention and orchestration. The Hebrew root "עוּר" (ur) means to awaken or incite. It suggests that God is actively involved in the unfolding of historical events. From a conservative Christian perspective, this underscores the belief in God's sovereignty over nations and history, affirming that He can raise up peoples and powers to fulfill His purposes.

the Medes
The Medes were an ancient Indo-Iranian people who lived in the region that is now northwestern Iran. Historically, they were known for their military prowess and eventually formed a significant part of the Medo-Persian Empire. In the biblical context, the Medes are often associated with God's judgment against Babylon. This highlights the theme of divine justice, where God uses one nation to bring judgment upon another, fulfilling His prophetic word.

against them
This phrase specifies the target of the divine stirring—the Babylonians. In the broader context of Isaiah 13, "them" refers to Babylon, a symbol of pride and opposition to God. The prophecy foretells the downfall of Babylon, serving as a reminder of the ultimate futility of human arrogance and rebellion against God.

who have no regard for silver and no desire for gold
This description of the Medes emphasizes their indifference to wealth and material gain. The Hebrew words "כֶּסֶף" (kesef) for silver and "זָהָב" (zahav) for gold highlight the typical motivations for war—plunder and riches. However, the Medes are portrayed as being driven by a divine purpose rather than material greed. This serves as a powerful reminder that God's plans transcend human motivations and that His purposes will be accomplished regardless of earthly desires. It also reflects the biblical theme that true value lies not in material wealth but in fulfilling God's will.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Isaiah
A major prophet in the Old Testament, Isaiah is the author of the book that bears his name. He prophesied during the reigns of several kings of Judah and is known for his messages of both judgment and hope.

2. Medes
An ancient people who lived in what is now northwestern Iran. They were known for their military prowess and eventually formed an alliance with the Persians to conquer Babylon.

3. Babylon
A powerful empire known for its wealth and grandeur. In Isaiah's prophecy, Babylon symbolizes human pride and opposition to God.

4. Judgment
The event of divine retribution that Isaiah prophesies against Babylon, using the Medes as instruments of God's judgment.

5. Silver and Gold
Symbols of wealth and materialism. The Medes' lack of interest in these suggests their focus on conquest rather than plunder.

Teaching Points

God's Sovereignty in Judgment
God uses nations and events to fulfill His purposes. The Medes were stirred by God to execute His judgment on Babylon, demonstrating His control over history.

The Futility of Materialism
The Medes' indifference to silver and gold highlights the temporary nature of material wealth. Believers are reminded to focus on eternal treasures rather than earthly riches.

The Certainty of God's Word
Isaiah's prophecy about the Medes was fulfilled, underscoring the reliability of God's Word. Believers can trust in the promises and warnings found in Scripture.

The Consequences of Pride
Babylon's downfall serves as a warning against pride and self-reliance. Humility and dependence on God are essential for individuals and nations.

God's Justice and Mercy
While God judges sin, His ultimate desire is for repentance and restoration. Believers are called to share the message of both God's justice and His mercy.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the prophecy against Babylon in Isaiah 13:17 demonstrate God's sovereignty over nations and history?

2. In what ways can the Medes' lack of interest in silver and gold challenge our own views on material wealth and priorities?

3. How does the fulfillment of Isaiah's prophecy in the fall of Babylon encourage us to trust in the reliability of God's Word today?

4. What lessons can we learn from Babylon's pride and downfall that apply to our personal lives and our society?

5. How can we balance the message of God's justice with His mercy when sharing the Gospel with others?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Jeremiah 51
Jeremiah also prophesies the fall of Babylon, reinforcing the message of divine judgment against nations that oppose God.

Daniel 5
The fall of Babylon is depicted during the reign of Belshazzar, where the Medes and Persians conquer the city, fulfilling Isaiah's prophecy.

Revelation 18
The fall of Babylon is echoed in the New Testament as a symbol of God's ultimate judgment against worldly systems opposed to His kingdom.