◄ Isaiah 47 ►
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Berean Standard Bible | Par ▾
The Humiliation of Babylon 1“Go down and sit in the dust, O Virgin Daughter of Babylon. Sit on the ground without a throne, O Daughter of the Chaldeans!a For you will no longer be called tender or delicate. 2Take millstones and grind flour; remove your veil; strip off your skirt, bare your thigh, and wade through the streams. 3Your nakedness will be uncovered and your shame will be exposed. I will take vengeance; I will spare no one.” 4Our Redeemer—the LORD of Hosts is His name— is the Holy One of Israel. 5“Sit in silence and go into darkness, O Daughter of the Chaldeans. For you will no longer be called the queen of kingdoms. 6I was angry with My people; I profaned My heritage, and I placed them under your control. You showed them no mercy; even on the elderly you laid a most heavy yoke. 7You said, ‘I will be queen forever.’ You did not take these things to heart or consider their outcome. 8So now hear this, O lover of luxury who sits securely, who says to herself, ‘I am, and there is none besides me. I will never be a widow or know the loss of children.’ 9These two things will overtake you in a moment, in a single day: loss of children, and widowhood. They will come upon you in full measure, in spite of your many sorceries and the potency of your spells. 10You were secure in your wickedness; you said, ‘No one sees me.’ Your wisdom and knowledge led you astray; you told yourself, ‘I am, and there is none besides me.’ 11But disaster will come upon you; you will not know how to charm it away. A calamity will befall you that you will be unable to ward off. Devastation will happen to you suddenly and unexpectedly. 12So take your stand with your spells and with your many sorceries, with which you have wearied yourself from your youth. Perhaps you will succeed; perhaps you will inspire terror! 13You are wearied by your many counselors; let them come forward now and save you— your astrologers who observe the stars, who monthly predict your fate. 14Surely they are like stubble; the fire will burn them up. They cannot deliver themselves from the power of the flame. There will be no coals to warm them or fire to sit beside. 15This is what they are to you— those with whom you have labored and traded from youth— each one strays in his own direction; not one of them can save you. Footnotes: 1 a That is, the Babylonians; also in verse 5 Berean Standard Bible (BSB) printed 2016, 2020, 2022, 2025 by Bible Hub and Berean.Bible. Produced in cooperation with Bible Hub, Discovery Bible, unfoldingWord, Bible Aquifer, OpenBible.com, and the Berean Bible Translation Committee. This text of God's Word has been dedicated to the public domain. Free downloads and unlimited usage available. See also the Berean Literal Bible and Berean Interlinear Bible. Bible Hub Isaiah 47 Summary The Humiliation of Babylon Verses 1–4 – Commanded to Descend and Be Exposed Babylon, pictured as a pampered princess, is ordered to leave her throne, sit in the dust, and perform the menial work of grinding grain. Her hidden pride is uncovered; her shame is laid bare. The Holy One of Israel steps in as Israel’s Kinsman-Redeemer, vowing unrestrained vengeance. Verses 5–7 – Stripped of the Throne and Silenced The “queen of kingdoms” is told to sit in silence and darkness. God reminds Babylon that He had used her to discipline His people, yet she showed no mercy. Because she never imagined an end to her rule, her royal title is revoked. Verses 8–9 – False Security Meets Sudden Loss Living for luxury, Babylon boasts, “I am, and there is none besides me.” In a single day she will face widowhood and childlessness—symbols of complete societal collapse—despite all her magic arts. Verses 10–11 – Proud Wisdom Becomes Blindness Babylon’s secret wickedness, self-confidence, and so-called wisdom lead her astray. Disaster will fall suddenly; no ransom, no forewarning, no escape. Verses 12–15 – Sorcery Proves Useless, Helpers Scatter God taunts Babylon to summon her astrologers and sorcerers once more. They will be like dry stubble consumed by fire, unable to save even themselves. Business partners and allies will wander off, leaving her utterly alone. Isaiah 47 is a compelling chapter in the Book of Isaiah. It highlights the divine prophecy of the downfall of Babylon, a symbol of worldly power and arrogance. This chapter serves as a reminder of the absolute sovereignty of God and the inevitable divine retribution that befalls those who exalt themselves above His laws and statutes. Historical Snapshot Isaiah spoke these words more than a century before Babylon reached its height under Nebuchadnezzar II (605–562 BC). In 539 BC the city fell overnight to Cyrus the Great and the Medo-Persian army, entering through diverted river channels—an exact parallel to the sudden, unexpected judgment described here (cf. Daniel 5). Isaiah’s prophecy comforted exiles who had not yet even left Jerusalem. Geographical and Archaeological Notes • Babylon lay on the Euphrates in modern-day Iraq, about 55 miles (90 km) south of Baghdad. • Excavations by Robert Koldewey (1899–1917) unearthed the Processional Way, Ishtar Gate, and fragments of the famed ziggurat. These remains confirm the city’s opulence and massive scale, matching the chapter’s imagery of a proud “queen.” • The Cyrus Cylinder (British Museum) records Cyrus’s entry and surprisingly lenient rule, yet from Babylon’s own viewpoint the city’s political power was over forever—fulfilling verses 5-7. Imagery and Symbolism Explained • “Virgin Daughter of Babylon” (v. 1) – sarcastic: untouchable in her own eyes, yet about to be violated. • Grinding flour, lifting the skirt (v. 2) – forced labor and public humiliation. • Sitting in darkness (v. 5) – loss of influence and complete disrepute. • Widowhood and childlessness (v. 9) – economic ruin and loss of future generations. • Stubble burned up (v. 14) – total, irreversible destruction. Pride and Its Consequences Verses 7-11 show the spiritual anatomy of downfall: 1. Complacency (“I will be queen forever”). 2. Self-sufficiency (“I am, and there is none besides me”). 3. Hidden sin (“No one sees me”). 4. Sudden judgment (“calamity will befall you... you will not know when it comes”). Proverbs 16:18 says, “Pride goes before destruction,” and James 4:6 reminds us that God resists the proud. Reliance on Occult Practices Babylon’s heavy use of astrology and spells (vv. 9, 12-13) is well documented on cuneiform tablets listing omens from lunar eclipses and planetary movements. Scripture consistently warns against such practices (Deuteronomy 18:10-12). Acts 19:18-19 shows new believers in Ephesus publicly burning scrolls of magic, echoing Isaiah’s imagery of sorcerers consumed like stubble. God’s Redemption Thread Verse 4 bursts into the oracle with hope: “Our Redeemer—the LORD of Hosts is His name—is the Holy One of Israel.” The same God who judges Babylon rescues His people. This tension runs through Scripture: judgment on oppressors, rescue for the faithful (Exodus 6:6; Luke 1:68-74). Echoes in Other Scriptures • Jeremiah 50–51 parallels Isaiah 47 almost line for line. • Daniel 5 records Babylon’s fall under Belshazzar. • Revelation 17–18 uses similar language: “Fallen, fallen is Babylon the great!” The boast “I sit as queen” (Revelation 18:7) quotes Isaiah 47:7-8, showing the prophecy’s recurring pattern. • Compare also Isaiah 14:12-15 for pride leading to downfall. Modern-Day Takeaways • National or personal pride that edges God out sets the stage for collapse. • Power structures God once used can still be judged when they overstep. • Trust in wealth, influence, or spiritual shortcuts will fail; only the Redeemer stands firm. • Oppression will not have the last word—God defends His people. Key Hebrew Terms • גָּאַל (ga’al) – “redeem, buy back” (v. 4). Signals personal rescue at cost to the Redeemer. • כַּשָּׁפִים (kashaphim) – “sorceries” (v. 9). Literally “mutterings,” indicating spells whispered in secret. • רֶגַע (regaʿ) – “moment” (v. 9). Emphasizes suddenness. • צַעַר (tsaʿar) – “burden” (v. 6). Heavy load laid on Israel’s aged captives. Timeline of Babylon’s Fall • 626 BC – Nabopolassar founds Neo-Babylonian Empire. • 605 BC – Nebuchadnezzar II defeats Egypt, Jerusalem’s first siege. • 586 BC – Jerusalem destroyed; many Judeans exiled to Babylon. • 539 BC – Cyrus captures Babylon overnight (Daniel 5). • 538 BC – First Jewish exiles return home (Ezra 1). Closing Perspective Isaiah 47 is more than ancient history. It is a vivid reminder that every empire, ideology, or individual exalting itself above God will one day sit in silence. Yet, in the middle of judgment, a single verse flashes hope: “Our Redeemer… the Holy One of Israel.” The same Lord still rescues all who humble themselves and trust in Him. Connections to Additional Scriptures Proverbs 16:18 Pride goes before destruction, and a haughty spirit before a fall. This verse echoes the theme of pride leading to downfall, as seen in Babylon's story. Jeremiah 50:31-32 These verses also prophesy the fall of Babylon, reinforcing the message of God's judgment against pride and idolatry. Revelation 18:2 Fallen, fallen is Babylon the great! This New Testament reference connects the historical fall of Babylon to the ultimate judgment of worldly systems opposed to God. Teaching Points The Humiliation of Babylon Isaiah 47:1-3 describes Babylon's fall from grace, where the virgin daughter of Babylon is brought down to sit in the dust. This imagery highlights the complete reversal of fortunes for a city that once considered itself invincible. God's Judgment on Pride In verses 7-9, Babylon's arrogance is condemned. The city believed it would remain a queen forever and failed to consider the consequences of its actions. This serves as a warning against the dangers of pride and self-reliance. The Futility of Idolatry and Sorcery Verses 12-13 mock Babylon's reliance on sorcery and astrology, emphasizing that these practices cannot save them from God's judgment. This underscores the futility of trusting in anything other than God. The Certainty of God's Word The chapter concludes with a declaration of God's judgment (verse 15), affirming that His word is final and unchangeable. This reminds us of the reliability and authority of God's promises and warnings. Practical Applications Cultivate Humility Reflect on areas in your life where pride may have taken root. Seek to cultivate humility by acknowledging God's sovereignty and your dependence on Him. Trust in God Alone Evaluate where you place your trust. Are there idols or practices in your life that you rely on more than God? Commit to trusting in God alone for guidance and security. Heed God's Warnings Take seriously the warnings found in Scripture. Use them as opportunities for self-examination and repentance, aligning your life with God's will. People 1. Virgin Daughter of Babylon This is a personification of the city of Babylon, depicted as a young woman who is about to experience humiliation and loss of status. The term "virgin" (Hebrew: בְּתוּלָה, ^bethulah^) signifies purity and untouched status, which is about to be stripped away due to impending judgment. 2. Daughter of the Chaldeans Another reference to Babylon, emphasizing its identity as part of the Chaldean empire. The Chaldeans were known for their wisdom and astrology, which is later criticized in the chapter. 3. Our Redeemer This refers to the LORD Almighty, the Holy One of Israel, who is contrasted with the false gods and idols of Babylon. The term "Redeemer" (Hebrew: גֹּאֵל, ^go'el^) signifies one who delivers or rescues, highlighting God's role in delivering His people. Places 1. Babylon Babylon is the central focus of Isaiah 47, representing a powerful and proud city that is destined for humiliation and judgment. The chapter speaks to the fall of Babylon from its position of power and luxury. In the original Hebrew, "Babylon" is "בָּבֶל" (Bavel), which historically refers to the ancient city and empire known for its wealth and influence. 2. Chaldea Chaldea is mentioned as the region associated with Babylon. The Chaldeans were known for their wisdom and astrology, which are condemned in this chapter. In Hebrew, "Chaldea" is "כַּשְׂדִּים" (Kasdim), referring to the people and the land that were part of the Babylonian Empire. Events 1. The Humiliation of Babylon Babylon is called to "sit in the dust" and "sit on the ground without a throne" (Isaiah 47:1). This signifies the loss of power and prestige. The Hebrew word for "dust" (עָפָר, `aphar`) often symbolizes humiliation and defeat. 2. The Stripping of Babylon's Glory Babylon is told to "remove your veil, strip off your skirt, bare your thigh, wade through the streams" (Isaiah 47:2). This imagery indicates the exposure and vulnerability of Babylon, as the city is stripped of its former glory and honor. 3. The Vengeance of God The Lord declares, "I will take vengeance; I will spare no one" (Isaiah 47:3). This emphasizes God's role as the divine judge who will not relent in His judgment against Babylon. The Hebrew root for "vengeance" (נָקָם, naqam) underscores the idea of retribution. 4. The Loss of Babylon's Status Babylon is described as "no more to be called the lady of kingdoms" (Isaiah 47:5). This marks the end of Babylon's dominance and influence over other nations. 5. The Recollection of Babylon's Cruelty God recalls Babylon's harsh treatment of His people, saying, "You showed them no mercy" (Isaiah 47:6). This serves as a reminder of Babylon's past sins and the justification for its impending judgment. 6. The False Security of Babylon Babylon is accused of feeling secure in its wickedness, saying, "I am, and there is none besides me" (Isaiah 47:8). This reflects Babylon's arrogance and self-deception, believing itself to be invincible. 7. The Sudden Fall of Babylon The prophecy declares that "disaster will come upon you, and you will not know how to conjure it away" (Isaiah 47:11). This indicates the sudden and unavoidable nature of Babylon's downfall. 8. The Futility of Babylon's Sorceries Babylon's reliance on sorceries and spells is condemned, as they will not save the city from destruction (Isaiah 47:12-13). The Hebrew word for "sorceries" (כְּשָׁפִים, keshafim) highlights the deceptive and powerless nature of these practices. 9. The Inevitability of Judgment The chapter concludes with the certainty of Babylon's judgment, as "there is no one to save you" (Isaiah 47:15). This underscores the finality and inescapability of God's decree against Babylon. Lessons from Isaiah 47 1. The Downfall of Pride Isaiah 47 serves as a powerful reminder that pride precedes a fall. Babylon, once a mighty empire, is brought low because of its arrogance. The chapter opens with a vivid image: "Come down and sit in the dust, O Virgin Daughter of Babylon; sit on the ground without a throne" (Isaiah 47:1). This is a call to humility, reminding us that no matter how high we rise, we must remain humble before God. 2. The Illusion of Security Babylon believed it was invincible, but Isaiah 47 reveals the folly of false security. "You felt secure in your wickedness and said, 'No one sees me'" (Isaiah 47:10). This teaches us that true security is found not in earthly power or wealth, but in the steadfast love and protection of God. We are encouraged to place our trust in Him, who sees all and knows all. 3. The Consequences of Idolatry The chapter highlights the futility of idolatry. Babylon's reliance on sorcery and enchantments is condemned: "Your wisdom and knowledge have deluded you" (Isaiah 47:10). This serves as a reminder to keep our focus on God, the only true source of wisdom and guidance, rather than on worldly distractions or false idols. 4. The Certainty of God's Justice Isaiah 47 assures us that God's justice is inevitable. "I will take vengeance; I will spare no one" (Isaiah 47:3). This is a comforting truth for those who seek righteousness, knowing that God will ultimately right all wrongs. It encourages us to live justly and trust in His perfect timing. 5. The Call to Repentance The chapter implicitly calls for repentance by highlighting the consequences of sin. Babylon's downfall is a warning to turn away from wickedness and seek God's mercy. "But evil will come upon you, which you will not know how to charm away" (Isaiah 47:11). This is a reminder that repentance is always the first step toward restoration. 6. The Futility of Human Wisdom Isaiah 47 underscores the limitations of human wisdom. Despite Babylon's reliance on its own understanding, it could not foresee its downfall. "Let your astrologers come forward, those stargazers who make predictions month by month" (Isaiah 47:13). This teaches us to seek divine wisdom through Scripture and prayer, rather than relying solely on human intellect. 7. The Power of God's Word The chapter demonstrates the power and authority of God's Word. What He declares will come to pass, as seen in the prophecy against Babylon. "None shall save you" (Isaiah 47:15). This encourages us to hold fast to the promises of Scripture, knowing they are reliable and true. 8. The Importance of Humility Isaiah 47 reminds us of the importance of humility before God. Babylon's downfall is a direct result of its arrogance. "You said, 'I am forever—the eternal queen!'" (Isaiah 47:7). This is a call to recognize our dependence on God and to approach Him with a humble heart. 9. The Inevitability of Divine Judgment The chapter emphasizes that divine judgment is unavoidable for those who persist in sin. "Disaster will fall upon you, and you will not be able to ward it off" (Isaiah 47:11). This serves as a sobering reminder to live in accordance with God's will, knowing that His judgment is both just and certain. 10. The Assurance of God's Sovereignty Finally, Isaiah 47 reassures us of God's sovereignty over all nations and events. Despite Babylon's temporary power, it is God who ultimately controls the course of history. "I am He, and there is none besides Me" (Isaiah 47:8). This gives us confidence to trust in His plan, knowing that He is in control and His purposes will prevail. Topics 1. The Humiliation of Babylon (Isaiah 47:1-3) The chapter opens with a call for Babylon to "sit in the dust" and "sit on the ground without a throne" (Isaiah 47:1). This imagery signifies the loss of power and prestige. The Hebrew word for "sit" (שֵׁב, shev) emphasizes a change in status from royalty to servitude. 2. The Exposure of Babylon's Shame (Isaiah 47:3) Babylon's "nakedness" and "shame" are to be exposed, symbolizing the complete uncovering of its sins and the removal of its glory. The Hebrew term for "nakedness" (עֶרְוָה, ervah) often denotes vulnerability and disgrace. 3. The Vengeance of God (Isaiah 47:3-4) God declares, "I will take vengeance; I will spare no one" (Isaiah 47:3). This reflects God's role as the Redeemer and the Holy One of Israel, emphasizing His justice and righteousness. 4. The Loss of Babylon's Luxuries (Isaiah 47:5-7) Babylon is instructed to "sit in silence" and "go into darkness" (Isaiah 47:5), indicating the end of its opulence and influence. The Hebrew word for "darkness" (חֹשֶׁךְ, choshech) suggests a state of despair and obscurity. 5. The Arrogance of Babylon (Isaiah 47:7-8) Babylon's pride is highlighted as it claims, "I am, and there is none besides me" (Isaiah 47:8). This arrogance is a key reason for its downfall, as it fails to acknowledge God's supremacy. 6. The Sudden Destruction of Babylon (Isaiah 47:9-11) The chapter describes how "disaster will come upon you" suddenly and unexpectedly (Isaiah 47:11). The Hebrew word for "disaster" (רָעָה, ra'ah) conveys calamity and misfortune. 7. The Futility of Babylon's Sorceries (Isaiah 47:12-13) Babylon's reliance on "sorceries" and "spells" is shown to be futile (Isaiah 47:12). The Hebrew term for "sorceries" (כְּשָׁפִים, keshafim) refers to occult practices that are powerless against God's will. 8. The Inevitability of Babylon's Judgment (Isaiah 47:14-15) The chapter concludes with the certainty of Babylon's judgment, as its "traders" and "sorcerers" will be unable to save it (Isaiah 47:15). The imagery of "stubble" consumed by fire (Isaiah 47:14) underscores the thoroughness of God's judgment. Themes 1. Judgment on Babylon Isaiah 47 opens with a pronouncement of judgment against Babylon, depicted as a virgin daughter who will be brought down to sit in the dust. The imagery of Babylon's fall highlights the theme of divine retribution against pride and arrogance. The Hebrew word "בַּת" (bat), meaning "daughter," emphasizes the personification of the city as a once-pampered entity now facing humiliation. 2. Loss of Power and Prestige The chapter describes the stripping away of Babylon's power and prestige, symbolized by the removal of the throne and the exposure of nakedness. This theme underscores the transient nature of earthly power and the ultimate sovereignty of God. The Hebrew root "גָּלָה" (galah), meaning "to uncover" or "to reveal," is used to convey the exposure of Babylon's vulnerabilities. 3. Divine Retribution for Idolatry and Sorcery Babylon is condemned for its reliance on sorcery and enchantments, practices that are abominable to God. The theme here is the futility of trusting in false gods and occult practices. The Hebrew word "כֶּשֶׁף" (keshef), meaning "sorcery," highlights the deceptive and powerless nature of these practices in the face of God's judgment. 4. The Inevitability of God's Judgment The chapter emphasizes the certainty and inevitability of God's judgment. Babylon's false sense of security and belief in its own invincibility are shattered by the prophetic declaration of its downfall. The Hebrew root "בּוֹא" (bo), meaning "to come" or "to arrive," is used to stress the assured arrival of divine judgment. 5. The Futility of Human Wisdom and Counsel Babylon's reliance on its own wisdom and counsel is portrayed as futile in the face of God's sovereign will. The theme here is the limitation of human understanding compared to divine wisdom. The Hebrew word "עֵצָה" (etsah), meaning "counsel" or "advice," is used to highlight the inadequacy of human plans against God's purposes. 6. The Call to Humility and Repentance Implicit in the judgment against Babylon is a call to humility and repentance. The chapter serves as a warning to all nations and individuals to recognize their dependence on God and to turn away from pride and self-reliance. The overarching message is one of returning to a right relationship with God through humility. Prayer Points Pray for Humility Ask God to reveal areas of pride in your life and to help you cultivate a spirit of humility and dependence on Him. Seek God's Guidance Pray for discernment to recognize and remove any idols or false securities in your life, placing your trust fully in God. Intercede for Nations Pray for the leaders and nations of the world, that they would recognize God's sovereignty and turn from pride and idolatry to seek His wisdom and guidance. Answering Tough Questions 1. Isaiah 47:1 – How can this prophecy definitively refer to historical Babylon if the text also appears to address a personified enemy not clearly identified in contemporary records? 2. Isaiah 47:7 – Is there any archaeological evidence showing Babylon truly believed it would remain a dominant power “forever” contrary to other nations’ documentation? 3. Isaiah 47:9 – How could both the sudden loss of children and widowhood happen in “a single day” without the record of any swift catastrophic event matching this description? 4. Isaiah 47:13 – Is there a contradiction with other biblical passages that critique astrology, given the ambiguous stance some prophets take toward signs in the heavens? 5. Isaiah 47:14 – Where is the historical or scientific evidence of people burning up like stubble as a direct fulfillment of this prophecy? Bible Study Discussion Questions 1. How does the downfall of Babylon illustrate the theme of divine justice and retribution in Isaiah 47? 2. In what ways does the Virgin Daughter of Babylon's pride and self-reliance contribute to her downfall? 3. How does Isaiah 47 challenge the belief in earthly powers and wisdom? 4. What are the consequences of arrogance and self-reliance as shown in this chapter? 5. In today's world, where can we see parallels to the arrogance and self-reliance of Babylon? 6. How does the humiliation of Babylon demonstrate the sovereignty of God? 7. How do verses 4-7 emphasize the importance of showing mercy to others, especially the elderly? 8. How does Isaiah 47 underscore the limitations of relying on human wisdom and powers, such as sorcery and astrology? 9. How can you apply the lessons from Babylon's downfall in your own life? 10. How can we guard against the pride and self-reliance exhibited by Babylon in our personal lives? 11. In what ways does society today rely on its "sorcerers and astrologers," similar to Babylon, instead of relying on God? 12. How can the suddenness of Babylon's disaster remind us to always be prepared for the unexpected in life? 13. How does the exposure of Babylon's wicked deeds remind us of the importance of integrity and righteousness? 14. How does God's treatment of Babylon underscore His concern and care for His people? 15. How should the downfall of Babylon influence our perspective on worldly power and success? 16. What practical steps can you take to ensure that you rely on God's wisdom rather than your own understanding? 17. How can we ensure we show mercy to others, particularly the vulnerable and the elderly in our society? 18. In what ways can the church today heed the warnings and lessons from Isaiah 47? 19. How does the theme of God's sovereignty in this chapter affect your view of current global events? 20. Given the ultimate downfall of Babylon, how should we, as Christians, respond to the secular powers and authorities in the world today? 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