◄ Isaiah 20 ►
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A Sign against Egypt and Cush 1Before the year that the chief commander, sent by Sargon king of Assyria, came to Ashdod and attacked and captured it, 2the LORD had already spoken through Isaiah son of Amoz, saying, “Go, remove the sackcloth from your waist and the sandals from your feet.” And Isaiah did so, walking around naked and barefoot. 3Then the LORD said, “Just as My servant Isaiah has gone naked and barefoot for three years as a sign and omen against Egypt and Cush,a 4so the king of Assyria will lead away the captives of Egypt and the exiles of Cush, young and old alike, naked and barefoot, with bared buttocks—to Egypt’s shame. 5Those who made Cush their hope and Egypt their boast will be dismayed and ashamed. 6And on that day the dwellers of this coastland will say, ‘See what has happened to our source of hope, those to whom we fled for help and deliverance from the king of Assyria! How then can we escape?’” Footnotes: 3 a That is, the upper Nile region; similarly in verses 4 and 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 20 Summary A Sign against Egypt and Cush Verses 1–2 – A Sign Given Through Isaiah Sargon II of Assyria dispatches his field commander to capture Ashdod. Once the Philistine stronghold falls, the LORD directs Isaiah to strip off his sackcloth and sandals. The prophet obeys, walking about “naked and barefoot,” a living picture sermon commissioned by God. Verses 3–4 – Three Years of Nakedness Isaiah’s strange appearance continues for three full years. During that time the LORD explains the meaning: “just as My servant Isaiah has gone naked and barefoot three years as a sign and portent… so the king of Assyria will lead away the captives of Egypt and Cush”. Verse 5 – Ashamed Allies Witnesses who once trusted Egypt’s chariots and Cushite soldiers stare in horror. Their hopes for rescue collapse; fear replaces confidence. Verse 6 – Jerusalem’s Sobering Question People in the coastal lands—and, by implication, Judah—cry out, “Look what happened to those we fled to for help! How can we escape?” The chapter ends with uneasy silence, forcing Judah to realize that only the LORD can save. Isaiah 20 is a chapter brimming with vivid prophecy and symbolic actions. It recounts a specific period in the life of the prophet Isaiah when God instructs him to perform an unusual act as a sign to the people of Judah. The chapter focuses on a prophecy against Egypt and Cush, which is brought to life through the actions of Isaiah. It is a stark reminder of the consequences of relying on worldly powers instead of God. Historical Context: Ashdod, Assyria, and Turbulent Alliances • Year: 711 BC, early in Hezekiah’s reign. • Place: Ashdod, one of the five key Philistine cities, positioned on the road between Egypt and Mesopotamia. • Power Players: Sargon II (Assyria), Shabaka/Shebitku (Egypt’s 25th-dynasty Pharaohs), and Nubian/Cushite rulers controlling southern Egypt. Judah and Philistia toyed with rebellion against Assyria, hoping Egypt and Cush would intervene. • Outcome: Assyria crushed Ashdod, installed a puppet ruler (cuneiform texts speak of “Azuru” and “Yamani”), and sent a loud message to every would-be rebel. Isaiah’s Strange Sign-Act Prophets sometimes dramatize God’s message, making the truth unforgettable. Isaiah’s three-year trek in minimal clothing symbolizes utter defeat: captives forced to march exposed, possessions gone, dignity stripped. Comparable prophetic dramas include Jeremiah burying a ruined waistband (Jeremiah 13) and Ezekiel laying on his side (Ezekiel 4). Assyrian Records and Archaeology • Inscriptions from Sargon II’s palace at Khorsabad mention subduing Ashdod: “I besieged and conquered Ashdod, Gath, and Ashdod-Yam.” • Reliefs show rows of captives led in single file, hands bound, backs uncovered—eerily matching Isaiah’s prophecy. • Excavations at Tel Ashdod have uncovered destruction layers dating to the late 8th century BC, consistent with Sargon’s campaign. Egypt and Cush: Why Judah Looked South • Chariots and horses: Egypt’s military technology dazzled smaller states (Isaiah 31:1). • Ethio-Egyptian coalition: Cushite kings (originating in modern Sudan) ruled Egypt during this period. They pushed north, promising aid against Assyria (Isaiah 18). • Ill-fated trust: Isaiah consistently warns, “Woe to those who go down to Egypt for help” (Isaiah 30:1-5). Chapter 20 graphically shows why. The Prophetic Pattern: Sign-Acts Elsewhere 1. Hosea marries Gomer (Hosea 1). 2. Jeremiah smashes a clay jar (Jeremiah 19). 3. Agabus binds Paul’s belt (Acts 21:11). God often uses visible action to drive truth from the mind to the heart. Major Themes and Practical Takeaways • False Security: Political alliances collapse; the LORD alone is dependable (Psalm 20:7). • Humility: National pride ends in humiliation when built on human power. • Obedient Service: Isaiah’s willingness to appear foolish echoes Paul’s words, “We are fools for Christ” (1 Colossians 4:10). • Long-Range Faithfulness: Three years of public embarrassment reveal a prophet’s stamina; believers today may face extended trials to bear witness. Connections to Other Scriptures • 2 Kings 18:17—Another visit by Assyria’s Tartan, this time to Jerusalem. • Isaiah 19–20—Twin oracles warning about Egypt. • Isaiah 31:1–3—Further condemnation of reliance on Egypt. • Micah 1:8—Micah laments “stripped and naked,” paralleling Isaiah’s act. • Hebrews 13:13—Believers called to go “outside the camp,” sharing Christ’s reproach. Archaeological Insights • Dur-Sharrukin tablets list tribute from Philistia after the Ashdod revolt. • Karnak reliefs show Nubian pharaohs boasting of alliances, highlighting the political stakes Isaiah addressed. • Ashdod’s destruction stratum reveals burnt ruins and arrowheads—evidence of a fierce siege. Living the Message Today • Evaluate where you place hope—economy, politics, technology? Isaiah’s audience learned that powerful allies can be powerless. • Witness through integrity—sometimes God asks His people to stand out, even at personal cost. • Trust God’s timing—Isaiah walked for three years before the sign’s fulfillment; endurance is part of faith’s fabric. Key Verse to Memorize Isaiah 20:3: “Then the LORD said, ‘Just as My servant Isaiah has gone naked and barefoot three years as a sign and portent against Egypt and Cush…’” The brief chapter leaves a lasting imprint: people stripped of everything ultimately discover the LORD is everything. Connections to Additional Scriptures Proverbs 3:5-6 Trust in the LORD with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make your paths straight. This passage reinforces the call to trust in God rather than human alliances. Jeremiah 17:5-8 These verses contrast the curse of trusting in man with the blessing of trusting in the Lord, echoing the message of Isaiah 20. Hebrews 11:8 By faith Abraham obeyed when he was called to go out to a place he would later receive as an inheritance, even though he did not know where he was going. This highlights the theme of obedience in faith, similar to Isaiah's actions. Teaching Points Prophetic Symbolism Isaiah's act of walking naked and barefoot was a symbolic prophecy against Egypt and Cush, illustrating their future humiliation and captivity by Assyria (Isaiah 20:2-4). Divine Sovereignty The chapter underscores God's control over nations and His ability to use them to fulfill His purposes (Isaiah 20:4-6). Warning to Judah The prophecy served as a warning to Judah not to rely on foreign alliances for security, but to trust in the Lord (Isaiah 20:5-6). Obedience of the Prophet Isaiah's willingness to obey God's unusual command demonstrates the importance of obedience in the life of a believer, even when it seems difficult or embarrassing (Isaiah 20:2). Practical Applications Trust in God Alone Just as Judah was warned against relying on Egypt and Cush, we are reminded to place our trust in God rather than in worldly powers or alliances. Obedience in Uncertainty Isaiah's obedience challenges us to follow God's commands, even when they are difficult or when we do not fully understand His plan. Heed God's Warnings This chapter encourages us to pay attention to God's warnings in our lives and to respond with repentance and faith. People 1. The LORD (Yahweh) The LORD is the central figure who commands Isaiah to perform a symbolic act. In the Hebrew text, the name used is "Yahweh" (יְהוָה), which is the personal name of God in the Old Testament. The LORD communicates His message and intentions through the prophet Isaiah. 2. Isaiah Isaiah is the prophet who receives and acts upon the LORD's command. He is instructed to walk naked and barefoot as a sign against Egypt and Cush (Ethiopia). Isaiah's actions serve as a prophetic symbol of the coming humiliation and captivity of these nations. 3. Sargon, King of Assyria Sargon is mentioned as the king of Assyria during whose reign the events of this chapter take place. The historical context involves Assyrian military campaigns, and Sargon is the ruler under whom these events unfold. 4. Tartan Tartan is the title of the Assyrian commander sent by Sargon to capture Ashdod. The term "Tartan" is derived from the Akkadian word "turtānu," which refers to a high-ranking military officer or commander. Places 1. Ashdod Ashdod was one of the major Philistine cities located on the Mediterranean coast. In Isaiah 20:1, it is mentioned as the place where the Assyrian king Sargon sent his commander to capture it. The Hebrew root for Ashdod is "אַשְׁדּוֹד" (Ashdod), which is consistent with its historical and geographical significance as a Philistine stronghold. 2. Egypt Egypt is a significant nation in biblical history, often representing a place of both refuge and oppression for the Israelites. In Isaiah 20:3-5, Egypt is mentioned in the context of a prophecy where the Egyptians will be led away captive by the Assyrians. The Hebrew term for Egypt is "מִצְרַיִם" (Mitzrayim), which is frequently used throughout the Old Testament. 3. Cush Cush, often identified with the region south of Egypt, corresponding to modern-day Sudan or Ethiopia, is mentioned alongside Egypt in Isaiah 20:3-5. The prophecy indicates that Cush, like Egypt, will face defeat and captivity. The Hebrew word for Cush is "כּוּשׁ" (Kush), which refers to the ancient kingdom located along the Nile River south of Egypt. Events 1. The LORD's Command to Isaiah The LORD instructs Isaiah to remove the sackcloth from his body and the sandals from his feet. This act symbolizes a prophetic sign against Egypt and Cush. ^"At that time the LORD spoke through Isaiah son of Amoz, saying, 'Go, remove the sackcloth from your waist and the sandals from your feet.' So he did so, going naked and barefoot."^ (Isaiah 20:2) 2. Isaiah's Symbolic Act Isaiah obeys the LORD's command and walks naked and barefoot for three years. This act serves as a sign and portent against Egypt and Cush, indicating their future humiliation and captivity. ^"And the LORD said, 'Just as My servant Isaiah has gone naked and barefoot for three years as a sign and omen against Egypt and Cush,'"^ (Isaiah 20:3) 3. Prophecy Against Egypt and Cush The LORD declares that the king of Assyria will lead away captives from Egypt and Cush, young and old, naked and barefoot, with buttocks uncovered, to the shame of Egypt. This prophecy highlights the impending defeat and disgrace of these nations. ^"so the king of Assyria will lead away the captives of Egypt and the exiles of Cush, young and old alike, naked and barefoot, with bared buttocks—to Egypt’s shame."^ (Isaiah 20:4) 4. The Impact on Those Who Trusted in Egypt The inhabitants of the coastlands will be dismayed and ashamed because they relied on Egypt and Cush for help against Assyria. This event underscores the futility of trusting in human alliances rather than in God. ^"Those who made Cush their hope and Egypt their boast will be dismayed and ashamed."^ (Isaiah 20:5) 5. A Warning to Judah The people of Judah will realize the folly of their reliance on Egypt and Cush, questioning where they can turn for help and how they can escape the king of Assyria. This serves as a warning to trust in the LORD rather than in foreign powers. ^"And the inhabitants of this coastland will say on that day, ‘See what has happened to our source of hope, to whom we fled for help and deliverance from the king of Assyria! How then can we escape?’"^ (Isaiah 20:6) Lessons from Isaiah 20 1. Obedience in Uncertainty Isaiah 20 begins with a peculiar command from God to Isaiah: to walk naked and barefoot for three years as a sign against Egypt and Cush. This act of obedience, though seemingly strange, teaches us the importance of trusting God's plan even when it doesn't make sense to us. As Proverbs 3:5-6 reminds us, "Trust in the LORD with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make your paths straight." 2. The Power of Prophetic Action Isaiah's actions were a living prophecy, a visual sermon to the people. This reminds us that sometimes our actions speak louder than words. Our lives can be a testimony to others, reflecting the truth of the Gospel. As James 1:22 encourages, "Be doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving yourselves." 3. The Reality of Judgment The chapter highlights the impending judgment on Egypt and Cush, serving as a sobering reminder of God's justice. It underscores the reality that God is not only loving but also just, and His judgments are righteous. Romans 2:6 states, "God 'will repay each one according to his deeds.'" 4. The Futility of Worldly Alliances The people of Judah were tempted to rely on alliances with Egypt and Cush for security. Isaiah 20 warns against placing trust in worldly powers instead of God. Psalm 20:7 echoes this sentiment: "Some trust in chariots and others in horses, but we trust in the name of the LORD our God." 5. The Call to Repentance The prophecy served as a call to repentance for Judah, urging them to turn back to God. It reminds us of the importance of repentance in our own lives. As 1 John 1:9 assures us, "If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness." 6. The Sovereignty of God Isaiah 20 demonstrates God's sovereignty over nations and history. It reassures us that God is in control, even when the world seems chaotic. Daniel 2:21 affirms, "He changes the times and seasons; He removes kings and establishes them." 7. The Consequences of Disobedience The chapter illustrates the consequences of disobedience to God’s commands. It serves as a warning that turning away from God leads to downfall. Galatians 6:7 warns, "Do not be deceived: God is not mocked. Whatever a man sows, he will reap in return." 8. The Importance of Faithfulness Isaiah's willingness to follow God's command, no matter how difficult, highlights the importance of faithfulness. It encourages us to remain steadfast in our faith. Hebrews 10:23 urges, "Let us hold resolutely to the hope we profess, for He who promised is faithful." 9. The Role of a Prophet Isaiah's role as a prophet was to convey God's message, no matter how challenging. This reminds us of our own calling to share the Gospel with others. Matthew 28:19 commissions us, "Therefore go and make disciples of all nations." 10. The Hope of Redemption While Isaiah 20 speaks of judgment, it also points to the hope of redemption for those who turn to God. It foreshadows the ultimate redemption through Christ. As Romans 8:1 declares, "Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus." These lessons from Isaiah 20 remind us of the timeless truths of Scripture and the call to live faithfully in light of God's Word. Topics 1. The Sign Against Egypt and Cush (Isaiah 20:1-2) The chapter begins with a historical context, mentioning the year that the Assyrian king Sargon sent his commander to capture Ashdod. The LORD speaks to Isaiah, instructing him to remove his sackcloth and sandals, symbolizing a prophetic sign against Egypt and Cush. The Hebrew root for "sign" (אוֹת, 'oth) indicates a visible symbol or demonstration. 2. Isaiah's Symbolic Act (Isaiah 20:3) Isaiah obeys God's command and walks naked and barefoot for three years. This act serves as a prophetic sign and warning to Egypt and Cush. The Hebrew word for "naked" (עָרוֹם, 'arom) can imply being stripped of defenses or dignity, emphasizing vulnerability. 3. The Prophecy of Captivity (Isaiah 20:4) The LORD declares that the king of Assyria will lead away captives from Egypt and Cush, young and old, naked and barefoot. This prophecy highlights the impending humiliation and defeat of these nations. The Hebrew term for "captives" (שְׁבִי, shevi) underscores the theme of exile and subjugation. 4. The Shame of Trusting in Egypt (Isaiah 20:5) The text warns that those who trusted in Egypt for help will be dismayed and ashamed. This serves as a caution against relying on human alliances rather than on God. The Hebrew root for "ashamed" (בּוֹשׁ, bosh) conveys a sense of disappointment and disgrace. 5. A Lesson for Judah (Isaiah 20:6) The chapter concludes with a message for the inhabitants of the coastland, likely referring to Judah, who will realize the futility of their reliance on Egypt. The Hebrew word for "coastland" (אִי, 'i) can also mean "island" or "region," indicating a broader geographical application. Themes 1. Prophetic Symbolism Isaiah 20 begins with a symbolic act commanded by God, where Isaiah is instructed to walk naked and barefoot as a sign against Egypt and Cush. This act serves as a prophetic symbol of the coming humiliation and captivity of these nations. The Hebrew root for "sign" (אוֹת, 'oth) indicates a visible demonstration meant to convey a divine message. ^“At that time the LORD spoke through Isaiah son of Amoz. He said, ‘Go, remove the sackcloth from your waist and the sandals from your feet.’ So he did so, going naked and barefoot.”^ (Isaiah 20:2) 2. Judgment on Nations The chapter highlights God's judgment on Egypt and Cush, emphasizing that reliance on these nations for security is futile. This theme underscores the sovereignty of God over all nations and His ability to bring about their downfall. The Hebrew word for "judgment" (מִשְׁפָּט, mishpat) often conveys the idea of divine justice being executed. ^“So the king of Assyria will lead away the captives of Egypt and the exiles of Cush, young and old alike, naked and barefoot, with bared buttocks—to Egypt’s shame.”^ (Isaiah 20:4) 3. Warning Against False Security The chapter serves as a warning to Judah and other nations not to place their trust in political alliances or military strength, but rather in God. The Hebrew root for "trust" (בָּטַח, batach) implies a sense of security and confidence, which should be placed in God alone. ^“Then the inhabitants of this coastland will say on that day, ‘Surely this is what has happened to those we relied on, to whom we fled for help and deliverance from the king of Assyria! How then can we escape?’”^ (Isaiah 20:6) 4. The Consequences of Disobedience Implicit in the chapter is the theme of consequences resulting from disobedience to God’s commands. The fate of Egypt and Cush serves as a cautionary tale for those who turn away from God’s guidance. The Hebrew concept of "consequence" (עָוֹן, avon) often relates to the iniquity or guilt that leads to punishment. ^The narrative does not explicitly state this theme, but it is inferred from the context and the outcomes described.^ Prayer Points Pray for the wisdom to discern where we may be placing our trust in worldly things rather than in God. Ask for the courage and strength to obey God's commands, even when they are challenging or counter-cultural. Seek God's guidance to heed His warnings and to live a life of repentance and faith. Pray for a deeper understanding of God's sovereignty and His purposes in the world. Answering Tough Questions 1. If Isaiah truly walked “naked and barefoot” for three years (Isaiah 20:2–3), why doesn’t any external source mention such a shocking act, and how could it have gone unnoticed by contemporaries? 2. Why does Isaiah 20:1 reference Sargon II of Assyria if some scholars argue that the historical record of his campaign against Ashdod is unclear or contradicts biblical chronology? 3. Is there archaeological or historical evidence confirming Tartan’s role in the siege of Ashdod (Isaiah 20:1), or does the biblical account stand alone without external support? 4. How does Isaiah’s prolonged nakedness (Isaiah 20:2–3) align with other biblical commands on decency, and why would God command a prophet to violate modesty for an extended period? 5. Is Isaiah 20:4's depiction of Egyptians and Ethiopians led away naked exaggerated or symbolic, considering large forced marches usually leave historical or archaeological evidence? Bible Study Discussion Questions 1. Why do you think God asked Isaiah to perform such a drastic action? How does this apply to the lengths we should go to obey God? 2. How does the symbolism of Isaiah's nakedness and barefoot condition reflect the situation of Egypt and Cush? 3. What does this chapter teach about the consequences of relying on worldly powers rather than God? 4. In what ways does the prophecy in Isaiah 20 resonate with today's global political environment? 5. How can we apply the lessons from Isaiah's obedience to God in our daily life? 6. How would you feel if you were in the position of the inhabitants of Judah? What would be your response to the prophecy? 7. How does this chapter highlight the role of prophets in the Bible? 8. How does Isaiah 20 illustrate the nature of divine judgment? 9. What does the reaction of the people of Judah towards their allies' defeat tell us about human fear and despair? 10. If you were Isaiah, how would you deal with the challenge of delivering such a difficult message? 11. How does this chapter remind us about the futility of human plans against God's sovereignty? 12. Can you identify a time in your life when you relied on something other than God for security? What was the outcome? 13. How does Isaiah 20 influence your understanding of trust and obedience to God's will? 14. What measures can we take to ensure our trust is in God and not in worldly powers? 15. How does this passage help you understand the concept of hope amidst despair? 16. Discuss how this prophecy may have affected Isaiah's reputation among the people. How do we handle situations where obedience to God may affect our reputation? 17. What does the urgency and certainty of God's message in Isaiah 20 teach us about the nature of God's prophecies? 18. How does this chapter challenge your understanding of God's judgement? 19. In the present day, how can we discern the difference between worldly security and divine security? 20. How does this chapter shape your perspective on the importance of prophetic messages in the Bible? Bible Hub Chapter Summaries and Bible Study Questions