Isaiah 21:16

For this is what the Lord says to me: "Within one year, as a hired worker would count it, all the glory of Kedar will be gone.

Study Bible

For this is what the Lord has said to me
This phrase establishes the divine authority and origin of the message. The Hebrew word for "Lord" here is "Yahweh," the covenant name of God, emphasizing His sovereignty and faithfulness. The phrase underscores the prophetic nature of Isaiah's message, indicating that it is not merely human speculation but a revelation from God Himself. This divine communication assures the reader of the reliability and seriousness of the prophecy.

Within one year
The specificity of "one year" highlights the immediacy and certainty of the prophecy. In the Hebrew context, a year was often associated with a complete cycle of seasons, symbolizing a full period of time. This timeframe indicates that the fulfillment of the prophecy is imminent, urging the audience to prepare and respond accordingly. It serves as a reminder of God's control over time and history.

as a hired worker counts it
This phrase suggests precision and certainty. A "hired worker" would meticulously count the days of his contract, ensuring he receives his due wages. This analogy implies that the prophecy will be fulfilled with the same exactness and reliability. It reflects the meticulous nature of God's plans and His faithfulness in bringing His word to pass.

all the glory of Kedar will be gone
"Kedar" refers to a nomadic tribe known for their wealth and military prowess, often associated with the Arabian desert. The "glory" of Kedar likely refers to their riches, power, and influence. The prophecy foretells the decline and loss of this glory, symbolizing the transient nature of human achievements and the ultimate sovereignty of God over nations. Historically, this serves as a warning against pride and self-reliance, reminding believers of the futility of earthly glory compared to the eternal glory of God.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Isaiah
The prophet who received the message from the Lord. He is a major prophet in the Old Testament, known for his prophecies concerning the judgment and salvation of Israel and the nations.

2. The Lord
The sovereign God who communicates His will and judgments through His prophets. In this context, He is the one declaring the impending judgment on Kedar.

3. Kedar
A nomadic tribe descended from Ishmael, known for their wealth and military prowess. They are often associated with the Arabian desert and are symbolic of pride and self-reliance.

4. Hired Worker
This term is used to emphasize the precision and certainty of the prophecy. A hired worker would count time meticulously, ensuring that the prophecy is fulfilled exactly as stated.

5. Judgment
The event prophesied by Isaiah, where the glory and strength of Kedar will be diminished within a year.

Teaching Points

The Certainty of God's Word
Just as a hired worker counts time precisely, God's word is sure and will come to pass exactly as He declares. Believers can trust in the reliability of God's promises and warnings.

The Folly of Pride
Kedar's downfall serves as a warning against pride and self-reliance. True security is found in humility and dependence on God.

God's Sovereignty Over Nations
This prophecy reminds us that God is in control of all nations and their destinies. He raises up and brings down according to His purposes.

The Urgency of Repentance
With the prophecy's fulfillment set within a year, there is an urgency to respond to God's warnings. Believers should live with a sense of urgency in turning from sin and seeking God's will.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the precision of the prophecy in Isaiah 21:16 reflect the nature of God's word and promises?

2. In what ways can the downfall of Kedar serve as a warning to individuals and nations today?

3. How does understanding the historical context of Kedar enhance our interpretation of this prophecy?

4. What other biblical examples illustrate the theme of God's sovereignty over nations, and how can these examples encourage us in our current global context?

5. How can we apply the urgency of repentance seen in this prophecy to our personal spiritual lives and communities?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 25:13
This passage lists the descendants of Ishmael, including Kedar, providing background on the origins of the tribe.

Psalm 120:5
This verse mentions Kedar in the context of distress and longing for peace, highlighting the tribe's historical reputation.

Jeremiah 49:28-33
These verses also prophesy against Kedar, reinforcing the theme of judgment against prideful nations.