Isaiah 21:11

This is the burden against Dumah: One calls to me from Seir, "Watchman, what is left of the night? Watchman, what is left of the night?"

Study Bible

This is the burden against Dumah:
Dumah is often associated with Edom, a region south of Judah, inhabited by the descendants of Esau. The term "burden" refers to a prophetic oracle, often one of judgment. Dumah, meaning "silence" or "stillness," may symbolize the impending doom or desolation. The Edomites had a tumultuous relationship with Israel, often characterized by hostility and conflict, as seen in Obadiah and Ezekiel 25:12-14.

One calls to me from Seir:
Seir is a mountainous region in Edom. The call from Seir suggests a voice of inquiry or concern coming from Edom. This reflects the historical context where Edom, despite its enmity with Israel, is portrayed as seeking insight or understanding. The geographical location of Seir, known for its rugged terrain, symbolizes the isolation and vulnerability of Edom.

“Watchman, what is left of the night?
The watchman is a metaphor for a prophet or seer, tasked with discerning the times and warning of impending danger. The question "what is left of the night?" implies a desire to know how much longer the period of darkness or trouble will last. This reflects a universal human concern for the end of suffering and the hope for a new dawn. The imagery of night and watchman is also found in Ezekiel 3:17 and Habakkuk 2:1, emphasizing vigilance and readiness.

Watchman, what is left of the night?”
The repetition underscores urgency and desperation. It suggests a deep anxiety about the future and a longing for reassurance. In a broader biblical context, night often symbolizes spiritual darkness or judgment, while the watchman represents those who are spiritually alert. This can be seen as a type of Christ, who is the ultimate watchman, providing light and guidance through the darkness, as seen in John 8:12.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Dumah
Dumah is often associated with Edom, a region and people descended from Esau, Jacob's brother. The name "Dumah" means "silence" or "stillness," which may symbolize the impending judgment or desolation.

2. Seir
A mountainous region inhabited by the Edomites, located southeast of the Dead Sea. It is often used interchangeably with Edom in the Bible.

3. Watchman
A metaphorical figure representing a prophet or someone who is vigilant and responsible for warning others of impending danger or change.

4. Night
Symbolically represents a time of darkness, uncertainty, or judgment. The repeated question about the night suggests a longing for the end of a difficult period.

5. Oracle
A divine message or prophecy, often concerning future events or judgments.

Teaching Points

The Role of the Watchman
Just as the watchman in Isaiah is vigilant, Christians are called to be spiritually alert and discerning, ready to warn others of spiritual dangers.

The Symbolism of Night
The night represents times of trial and uncertainty. Believers are encouraged to hold onto hope and trust in God's timing for deliverance.

Seeking God's Guidance
The repeated question, "What is left of the night?" reflects a deep yearning for understanding and guidance. Christians are encouraged to seek God's wisdom in times of uncertainty.

The Certainty of God's Judgment
The oracle concerning Dumah serves as a reminder of God's sovereignty and the certainty of His judgment. Believers are called to live righteously in light of this truth.

Hope in the Morning
Just as the night gives way to morning, believers can have confidence that God will bring light and resolution to their darkest times.

Bible Study Questions

1. What does the role of the watchman in Isaiah 21:11 teach us about our responsibilities as Christians today?

2. How can the symbolism of "night" in this passage help us understand our own times of spiritual darkness or uncertainty?

3. In what ways can we seek and discern God's guidance when we are faced with difficult questions or situations?

4. How does the certainty of God's judgment, as seen in the oracle concerning Dumah, influence the way we live our daily lives?

5. What are some practical ways we can hold onto hope and anticipate God's deliverance during challenging times, as symbolized by the coming of the morning?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Ezekiel 3:17
The role of the watchman is further elaborated, emphasizing the responsibility to warn the people of impending danger.

Psalm 130:6
The longing for the morning parallels the watchman's anticipation for the end of the night, symbolizing hope and deliverance.

Matthew 24:42
Jesus' teaching on being watchful and prepared for His return connects with the theme of vigilance in Isaiah 21:11.