Isaiah 16:3

"Give us counsel; render a decision. Shelter us at noonday with shade as dark as night. Hide the refugees; do not betray the one who flees.

Study Bible

Give us counsel
The phrase "Give us counsel" reflects a plea for guidance and wisdom. In the Hebrew context, the word for "counsel" (עֵצָה, 'etsah) often implies strategic advice or divine guidance. Historically, this request for counsel can be seen as Moab seeking wisdom from Judah during a time of distress. It underscores the importance of seeking God's wisdom in times of crisis, a theme prevalent throughout the Bible. Theologically, it reminds believers of the value of godly counsel and the role of the Holy Spirit as the Counselor.

render a decision
The phrase "render a decision" suggests the need for a just and righteous judgment. The Hebrew word for "decision" (פְּלִילָה, pelilah) can also mean a verdict or a legal judgment. This reflects the Moabites' desire for a fair and decisive response to their plight. In a broader biblical context, it highlights God's role as the ultimate judge who renders perfect justice. For Christians, it serves as a reminder to seek God's righteous judgment in their lives and to trust in His sovereign decisions.

Make your shadow like night at high noon
This vivid imagery, "Make your shadow like night at high noon," conveys a request for protection and refuge. In the ancient Near Eastern culture, a shadow was a metaphor for protection and shelter. The phrase suggests an urgent need for safety, as the intense heat of "high noon" represents danger and exposure. Spiritually, it symbolizes God's protective presence, akin to Psalm 91:1, where believers find refuge under the shadow of the Almighty. It encourages Christians to seek God's protection in times of vulnerability.

Hide the refugees
The command to "Hide the refugees" speaks to the moral and ethical responsibility to protect those in distress. The Hebrew word for "refugees" (נִדָּחִים, nidachim) implies those who are outcasts or displaced. This reflects the biblical principle of providing sanctuary and support to the vulnerable, a recurring theme in both the Old and New Testaments. It challenges believers to extend compassion and aid to those in need, reflecting Christ's love and mercy.

do not betray the one who flees
The phrase "do not betray the one who flees" emphasizes the importance of trust and loyalty. The Hebrew word for "betray" (תִּגְלוּ, tiglu) suggests revealing or exposing someone to danger. This plea underscores the need for integrity and faithfulness in relationships, especially towards those seeking refuge. Biblically, it aligns with the call to protect and uphold the dignity of every person, as seen in the teachings of Jesus. It inspires Christians to be trustworthy and to stand as protectors of the oppressed.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Moab
A nation east of Israel, often in conflict with Israel. In Isaiah 16, Moab seeks refuge and counsel from Judah during a time of distress.

2. Judah
The southern kingdom of Israel, to whom Moab turns for help. Judah is called to provide protection and justice.

3. Refugees
Individuals fleeing from danger, seeking safety and protection. In this context, they are Moabites seeking refuge in Judah.

4. Isaiah
The prophet delivering God's message, calling for justice and compassion towards those in need.

5. God's Judgment
The overarching theme of Isaiah, where God's justice and mercy are highlighted, especially towards nations like Moab.

Teaching Points

Compassion and Justice
As believers, we are called to show compassion and execute justice, especially towards those who are vulnerable and in need of refuge.

Protection of the Vulnerable
The directive to "hide the refugees" emphasizes the importance of protecting those who are fleeing from danger, reflecting God's heart for the oppressed.

Trust in God's Sovereignty
Even in times of distress, like Moab's situation, we are reminded to trust in God's sovereign plan and His provision through His people.

Hospitality as a Christian Duty
The call to not betray the one who flees highlights the Christian duty of hospitality and care for strangers, reflecting Christ's love.

Practical Faith
Our faith should manifest in practical actions, such as providing counsel, executing judgment, and offering protection to those in need.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the historical context of Moab seeking refuge in Judah enhance our understanding of Isaiah 16:3?

2. In what ways can we apply the principles of compassion and justice from Isaiah 16:3 in our modern context?

3. How do the teachings of Jesus in the New Testament reinforce the message of Isaiah 16:3 regarding care for refugees and strangers?

4. What are some practical ways we can "make our shadow like night at high noon" for those seeking refuge today?

5. How does understanding God's character of justice and mercy influence our response to those in need, as seen in Isaiah 16:3?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Deuteronomy 10:18-19
This passage emphasizes God's love for the foreigner and commands Israel to love the stranger, reflecting the call for compassion in Isaiah 16:3.

Matthew 25:35-40
Jesus speaks about caring for the stranger and the needy, which aligns with the call to hide and protect refugees in Isaiah 16:3.

Hebrews 13:2
Encourages hospitality to strangers, echoing the directive to not betray the one who flees.