Morning has come
The phrase "morning has come" signifies the arrival of a new day, a fresh start, or a change in circumstances. In Hebrew, "בֹּקֶר" (boqer) means morning, which often symbolizes light, hope, and renewal in the Bible. The coming of morning can be seen as a metaphor for deliverance or the end of a period of darkness and uncertainty. In a prophetic sense, it can represent the fulfillment of God's promises and the ushering in of His divine plan. For the people of God, morning is a reminder of His faithfulness and the assurance that His mercies are new every day (Lamentations 3:22-23).

but also the night
The continuation with "but also the night" introduces a paradoxical element. The Hebrew word for night is "לַיְלָה" (laylah), which often represents darkness, uncertainty, or judgment. This juxtaposition of morning and night suggests that while there is hope and renewal, challenges and trials may still persist. It serves as a reminder that life is a mixture of light and darkness, joy and sorrow. From a spiritual perspective, it calls believers to remain vigilant and steadfast in faith, recognizing that even in times of darkness, God is present and sovereign. The presence of both morning and night emphasizes the need for continual reliance on God’s guidance and strength.

If you would inquire
The phrase "If you would inquire" invites the listener to seek understanding and wisdom. The act of inquiring implies a desire to know more, to seek truth, and to understand God’s will. In Hebrew, the root word for inquire is "דָּרַשׁ" (darash), which means to seek or to search diligently. This reflects a proactive approach to faith, where believers are encouraged to actively seek God’s guidance and revelation. It underscores the importance of prayer, study, and meditation on God’s Word as means to gain insight and direction in life.

then inquire
The repetition of "inquire" emphasizes the importance of seeking and asking. It suggests persistence and earnestness in the pursuit of understanding. This call to inquire is an invitation to engage with God, to bring questions and concerns before Him, and to trust in His wisdom and timing. It reflects the biblical principle that those who seek will find (Matthew 7:7-8). In a broader sense, it encourages believers to cultivate a relationship with God characterized by open communication and a sincere desire to know His heart.

Return for yet another message
The concluding phrase, "Return for yet another message," suggests that understanding and revelation are ongoing processes. The call to return indicates that seeking God is not a one-time event but a continual journey. It implies that God’s messages and guidance are not exhausted in a single inquiry but are available to those who persistently seek Him. This encourages believers to maintain a posture of humility and openness, recognizing that God’s wisdom is infinite and His ways are higher than ours (Isaiah 55:8-9). It is an invitation to remain in fellowship with God, continually seeking His presence and direction in every aspect of life.

(1) that a brighter time would soon dawn upon the Edomite people; and

(2) that this brighter time would be followed by a return of misery and affliction. We may (conjecturally) understand the "morning" of the earlier part of Sennacherib's reign, when Edom was at peace with Assyria, merely paying a moderate tribute (G. Smith, 'Eponym Canon,' p. 132), and the "night" of the later period in the same king's reign, when (about B.C. 694-690) the country suffered from another Assyrian invasion, in which the king's treasures and his gods were carried off to Nineveh (ibid., p. 137). If ye will inquire, inquire ye; return, come. Some take this very literally, as meaning, "If ye would inquire further into the meaning of this answer, do so; return to me; come again." But this implies that the Edomites had sent an actual messenger to make the inquiry of ver. 5, which is improbable. Others understand a reproach to Edom: "If ye will have recourse to God in the time of trouble, do so; but then do more - return to him altogether; come, and be one with Judah."

Parallel Commentaries ...