Isaiah 15:4

Heshbon and Elealeh cry out; their voices are heard as far as Jahaz. Therefore the soldiers of Moab cry out; their souls tremble within.

Study Bible

Heshbon and Elealeh cry out
Heshbon and Elealeh were significant cities in ancient Moab, known for their strategic and economic importance. The Hebrew root for "cry out" is "זָעַק" (za'aq), which conveys a sense of loud lamentation or a desperate plea for help. This phrase indicates the depth of distress and calamity that has befallen these cities. Historically, Heshbon was a major city of the Amorites before being conquered by the Israelites and later becoming part of Moab. The crying out of these cities symbolizes the widespread devastation and the emotional turmoil experienced by the inhabitants.

their voices are heard as far away as Jahaz
Jahaz was a location of significant historical battles, notably where the Israelites defeated Sihon, king of the Amorites (Numbers 21:23). The mention of Jahaz here underscores the extent of the calamity, as the cries of Heshbon and Elealeh reach far beyond their borders. The Hebrew word for "heard" is "שָׁמַע" (shama), which implies not just hearing but understanding and acknowledging the gravity of the situation. This phrase suggests that the impact of Moab's distress is widespread, affecting even distant regions.

Therefore the armed men of Moab cry out
The "armed men" or warriors of Moab, expected to be symbols of strength and protection, are themselves crying out. The Hebrew word for "armed men" is "חָלוּץ" (chalutz), which refers to those prepared for battle. Their cry signifies a reversal of roles, where the protectors are now in need of protection. This highlights the severity of the judgment upon Moab, as even the mightiest are rendered powerless. The repetition of "cry out" emphasizes the pervasive despair and helplessness.

and their souls tremble within them
The Hebrew word for "souls" is "נֶפֶשׁ" (nephesh), often translated as "life" or "being," indicating the very essence of a person. "Tremble" comes from the Hebrew "רָגַז" (ragaz), meaning to quake or be agitated. This phrase paints a vivid picture of internal turmoil and fear, suggesting that the crisis has penetrated to the core of their being. The trembling of their souls reflects a profound existential dread, a recognition of their vulnerability in the face of divine judgment.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Heshbon
A significant city in ancient Moab, often associated with the Amorites before being conquered by the Israelites. It was a center of power and influence.

2. Elealeh
A nearby town to Heshbon, also part of Moab. It is often mentioned alongside Heshbon, indicating its close proximity and shared fate.

3. Jahaz
A location further from Heshbon and Elealeh, indicating the extent of the outcry and distress spreading through the land.

4. Moab
A nation descended from Lot, often in conflict with Israel. Moab's distress in this passage is a result of impending judgment.

5. Armed Men of Moab
Representing the military strength of Moab, their fear and trembling signify the severity of the threat they face.

Teaching Points

The Reality of Divine Judgment
God's judgment is real and affects nations and individuals. The distress of Moab serves as a reminder of the consequences of turning away from God.

The Power of Lamentation
The cries from Heshbon and Elealeh illustrate the deep sorrow and repentance that should accompany recognition of sin and impending judgment.

The Sovereignty of God Over Nations
Despite Moab's military strength, their fear and trembling highlight God's ultimate control over all nations and their destinies.

The Call to Repentance
The passage serves as a call to repentance, urging believers to turn back to God before facing similar distress and judgment.

The Importance of Heeding Prophetic Warnings
Just as Moab was warned through prophecy, believers today are called to heed the warnings found in Scripture and align their lives with God's will.

Bible Study Questions

1. What does the reaction of the armed men of Moab teach us about the limitations of human strength in the face of divine judgment?

2. How can the lamentation of Heshbon and Elealeh serve as a model for our own response to sin and the need for repentance?

3. In what ways does the prophecy against Moab in Isaiah 15:4 reflect God's sovereignty over nations, and how should this influence our view of current world events?

4. How can we apply the lessons from Moab's distress to our personal lives, particularly in terms of recognizing and responding to God's warnings?

5. What other biblical examples of divine judgment can we study to gain a deeper understanding of God's justice and mercy? How do these examples encourage us to live righteously?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Jeremiah 48
This chapter parallels Isaiah 15, providing a similar prophecy against Moab, emphasizing the theme of judgment and lamentation.

Numbers 21
Describes the historical context of Heshbon and Elealeh, including their conquest by the Israelites, which sets the stage for their significance in later prophecies.

Psalm 60
Reflects on God's sovereignty over nations, including Moab, reinforcing the theme of divine judgment and control.