Isaiah 15:9

The waters of Dimon are full of blood, but I will bring more upon Dimon--a lion upon the fugitives of Moab and upon the remnant of the land.

Study Bible

The waters of Dimon are full of blood
This phrase indicates a scene of devastation and judgment. Dimon is often identified with Dibon, a city in Moab, which was a region east of the Dead Sea. The imagery of waters full of blood suggests a great slaughter or calamity, possibly due to warfare or divine judgment. In biblical symbolism, blood often represents life taken violently, and here it underscores the severity of Moab's punishment. This aligns with the broader context of Isaiah's prophecies against the nations surrounding Israel, where God uses natural and military disasters as instruments of judgment.

but I will bring more upon Dimon
This part of the verse suggests that the current devastation is not the end; further judgment is to come. The use of "I will bring" indicates divine intervention, emphasizing that the calamities are not merely natural or coincidental but are orchestrated by God. This reflects the biblical theme of God's sovereignty over nations and His use of judgment to bring about repentance or to fulfill His purposes. The continuation of judgment upon Dimon serves as a warning to Moab and a reminder of the consequences of turning away from God.

a lion upon the fugitives of Moab
The lion is a common biblical symbol of strength, power, and often destruction. In this context, it represents a fierce and unstoppable force that will come upon those fleeing from Moab. The fugitives, likely those escaping the initial devastation, will not find safety, as the lion signifies further peril. This imagery is consistent with other biblical passages where God uses wild animals as instruments of judgment (e.g., Jeremiah 5:6). The lion could also symbolize a powerful enemy or invading force that God will use to complete Moab's judgment.

and upon the remnant of the land
The "remnant" refers to those who survive the initial calamities. In biblical prophecy, a remnant often signifies a small, surviving group that remains after widespread destruction. However, in this context, even the remnant is not spared from judgment, highlighting the totality of God's decree against Moab. This serves as a stark reminder of the seriousness of divine judgment and the futility of relying on human strength or escape. The concept of a remnant is also significant in other parts of Scripture, where it sometimes represents hope and future restoration, but here it underscores the completeness of Moab's downfall.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Dimon
A location in Moab, possibly synonymous with Dibon, known for its waters. The name is used here to symbolize judgment and calamity.

2. Moab
A nation east of Israel, often in conflict with Israel. Moab is under judgment in this prophecy.

3. Fugitives of Moab
The people of Moab who are fleeing from destruction and judgment.

4. Remnant of the Land
The survivors left in Moab after the initial wave of destruction.

5. Lion
Symbolic of further destruction and judgment, possibly representing a powerful enemy or divine wrath.

Teaching Points

God's Sovereignty in Judgment
God is in control of the nations and their destinies. His judgments are just and purposeful.

The Reality of Divine Judgment
The imagery of blood and lions serves as a stark reminder of the seriousness of sin and the reality of divine judgment.

The Call to Repentance
The prophecy serves as a warning to turn from sin and seek God's mercy before judgment comes.

Hope for the Remnant
Even in judgment, God often preserves a remnant, offering hope for restoration and redemption.

The Importance of Trusting God
In times of calamity and judgment, trusting in God's plan and sovereignty is crucial for believers.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the imagery of blood and lions in Isaiah 15:9 help us understand the severity of God's judgment?

2. In what ways can the prophecy against Moab serve as a warning for nations and individuals today?

3. How does the concept of a "remnant" in Isaiah 15:9 provide hope amidst judgment, and how can this be applied to our lives?

4. What parallels can be drawn between the judgment of Moab and the final judgment described in Revelation?

5. How can we apply the lessons from Isaiah 15:9 to our personal walk with God, especially in terms of repentance and trust?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Jeremiah 48
This chapter also prophesies the downfall of Moab, echoing the themes of judgment found in Isaiah 15.

Amos 1:13-15
Amos speaks of judgment against the nations, including Moab, highlighting God's justice.

Revelation 14:19-20
The imagery of blood and judgment is reminiscent of the final judgment described in Revelation.

Psalm 60:8
Moab is mentioned as a washbasin, symbolizing subjugation and judgment.

Zephaniah 2:9
Moab's fate is compared to that of Sodom and Gomorrah, emphasizing total destruction.