Isaiah 16:4

Let my fugitives stay with you; be a refuge for Moab from the destroyer." When the oppressor has gone, destruction has ceased, and the oppressors have vanished from the land,

Study Bible

Let my fugitives stay with you
This phrase speaks to the theme of refuge and protection. The Hebrew root for "fugitives" is "נָדַד" (nadad), which means to wander or flee. Historically, this reflects the context of Moabite refugees seeking asylum in Judah during a time of distress. The call to provide shelter is a divine directive, emphasizing the biblical principle of hospitality and care for the displaced, resonating with God's compassion for the vulnerable.

be a refuge for Moab
The word "refuge" comes from the Hebrew "מָעוֹז" (ma'oz), meaning a place of safety or protection. This highlights the role of Judah as a sanctuary for Moab, despite their historical enmity. It underscores the biblical mandate to love one's neighbor and offer protection, reflecting God's own nature as a refuge for His people. This call to be a refuge is a powerful reminder of the Christian duty to extend grace and mercy.

from the destroyer
The term "destroyer" in Hebrew is "שׁוֹדֵד" (shoded), indicating one who lays waste or devastates. This could refer to invading armies or divine judgment. The historical context may point to Assyrian aggression, a common threat during Isaiah's time. Spiritually, it symbolizes any force that seeks to harm or oppress. The verse reassures that God provides protection against such threats, encouraging believers to trust in His sovereign care.

When the oppressor is no more
The "oppressor" is translated from "לֹחֵץ" (lohets), meaning one who crushes or afflicts. This phrase offers hope and assurance that tyranny and injustice are temporary. It reflects the biblical promise of deliverance and the ultimate triumph of God's justice. Historically, it speaks to the eventual downfall of oppressive regimes, reinforcing the belief in God's righteous intervention in human affairs.

when destruction has ceased
"Destruction" comes from the Hebrew "כָּלָה" (kalah), meaning to be finished or completed. This phrase conveys the end of calamity and suffering. It is a prophetic assurance that God will bring an end to chaos and restore peace. Theologically, it points to the eschatological hope of a new creation where suffering is no more, encouraging believers to persevere in faith.

and the aggressor has vanished from the land
The "aggressor" is derived from "דּוֹרֵךְ" (dorek), meaning one who treads down or oppresses. This phrase promises the removal of those who cause harm and unrest. It is a declaration of God's power to eliminate evil and restore righteousness. Historically, it reassures the faithful of God's control over nations and His ability to bring about justice, inspiring confidence in His ultimate plan for peace.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Moabites
A people descended from Moab, the son of Lot. Historically, they were often in conflict with Israel but also had periods of alliance and peace.

2. Fugitives
Refers to those fleeing from danger or persecution, in this context, the Moabites seeking refuge.

3. The Destroyer
Represents the threat or force causing destruction, possibly an invading army or a metaphor for divine judgment.

4. Oppressor
A figure or force that imposes harsh and unjust treatment, often seen as a foreign power or ruler.

5. The Land
Refers to the region of Moab and possibly the broader area of Israel and its neighbors.

Teaching Points

Compassion for the Stranger
The call to shelter the Moabite fugitives highlights the importance of showing compassion and hospitality to those in need, regardless of past enmities.

Trust in God's Deliverance
The assurance that the oppressor and aggressor will vanish reminds believers to trust in God's ultimate justice and deliverance from evil.

Role of God's People as a Refuge
Just as Israel was called to be a refuge, Christians are called to be a source of comfort and protection for those facing trials and persecution.

Temporary Nature of Earthly Powers
The passage underscores the transient nature of earthly powers and oppressors, encouraging believers to focus on eternal truths and God's sovereignty.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the historical relationship between Israel and Moab inform our understanding of Isaiah 16:4?

2. In what ways can we, as modern believers, act as a refuge for those in need, both physically and spiritually?

3. How does the promise of the oppressor's end in Isaiah 16:4 encourage us in times of personal or communal trial?

4. What parallels can we draw between the Moabite fugitives seeking refuge and current global issues of refugees and displaced persons?

5. How do the themes of refuge and deliverance in Isaiah 16:4 connect with the broader biblical account of God's salvation plan?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Ruth 1-4
The account of Ruth, a Moabite woman, who finds refuge and acceptance in Israel, illustrating themes of redemption and God's providence.

Psalm 46:1
Speaks of God as a refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble, paralleling the call for Israel to be a shelter for the Moabites.

Matthew 5:44
Jesus' teaching on loving enemies and praying for those who persecute you, which aligns with the call to provide refuge to the Moabites.