Isaiah 13:20

She will never be inhabited or settled from generation to generation; no nomad will pitch his tent there, no shepherd will rest his flock there.

Study Bible

It will never be inhabited
The phrase speaks to the complete and utter desolation decreed upon Babylon. The Hebrew root for "inhabited" is "יָשַׁב" (yashab), which means to dwell or sit. Historically, Babylon was a thriving metropolis, a center of culture and power. Yet, this prophecy foretells its permanent desolation, emphasizing the sovereignty of God over nations. The fulfillment of this prophecy serves as a testament to God's control over history and His ability to bring about His divine will.

or settled from generation to generation
The word "settled" comes from the Hebrew "שָׁכַן" (shakan), meaning to abide or dwell. This phrase underscores the enduring nature of Babylon's desolation. The repetition of "generation to generation" highlights the perpetual nature of this judgment. It serves as a warning to all nations that defy God, illustrating the eternal consequences of rebellion against His divine order.

no nomads will pitch their tents there
The term "nomads" refers to wandering tribes, often Bedouins, who were known for their transient lifestyle. The Hebrew word "עֲרָבִים" (aravim) is used here, indicating those who live in temporary shelters. The prophecy that even these transient people will avoid Babylon underscores the severity of its desolation. It suggests a divine curse so profound that even those accustomed to barren lands will find it uninhabitable.

and no shepherds will rest their flocks there
Shepherds were a common sight in the ancient Near East, and their presence often indicated a land's fertility and safety. The Hebrew word "רָבַץ" (rabat) means to lie down or rest, suggesting peace and provision. The absence of shepherds and their flocks signifies a land devoid of life and sustenance. This imagery reinforces the totality of Babylon's destruction, serving as a powerful symbol of God's judgment against pride and idolatry.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Babylon
The primary subject of Isaiah 13, Babylon is prophesied to face complete desolation. Historically, Babylon was a powerful empire known for its grandeur and influence.

2. Isaiah
The prophet who delivered this message. He was a major prophet in the Old Testament, known for his prophecies concerning both judgment and redemption.

3. Nomads and Shepherds
Representing transient and pastoral life, their absence signifies total desolation and abandonment.

4. Judgment of God
The overarching event in this passage is the divine judgment pronounced upon Babylon, symbolizing God's sovereignty over nations.

5. Desolation
The event of Babylon's desolation serves as a warning and a demonstration of God's power to fulfill His word.

Teaching Points

God's Sovereignty Over Nations
God holds ultimate authority over all nations, and His plans will prevail regardless of human power or influence.

The Certainty of God's Judgment
Just as Babylon faced inevitable judgment, so too will all who oppose God. This serves as a reminder of the seriousness of sin and the need for repentance.

The Transience of Earthly Power
Babylon's fall illustrates the temporary nature of worldly power and wealth. Believers are encouraged to place their trust in God rather than in temporal things.

Hope in God's Justice
While the prophecy speaks of destruction, it also assures believers of God's justice. He will right all wrongs and bring about His righteous purposes.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the prophecy of Babylon's desolation in Isaiah 13:20 demonstrate God's sovereignty over human history?

2. In what ways does the fall of Babylon serve as a warning for contemporary societies and individuals?

3. How can the certainty of God's judgment, as seen in Isaiah 13:20, influence our daily lives and decisions?

4. What parallels can you draw between the desolation of Babylon and other biblical accounts of divine judgment, such as Sodom and Gomorrah?

5. How does understanding the temporary nature of earthly power and wealth, as illustrated by Babylon's fall, affect your priorities and values as a believer?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Revelation 18
This chapter describes the fall of Babylon the Great, echoing the themes of judgment and desolation found in Isaiah 13.

Jeremiah 50-51
These chapters also prophesy the destruction of Babylon, reinforcing the message of Isaiah.

Genesis 19
The destruction of Sodom and Gomorrah parallels the desolation prophesied for Babylon, illustrating God's judgment on sin.

Isaiah 34:10
Similar language is used to describe the desolation of Edom, emphasizing the permanence of God's judgment.