The princes of Zoan are mere fools; Pharaoh's wise counselors give senseless advice. How can you say to Pharaoh, "I am one of the wise, a son of eastern kings"? The princes of Zoan are mere fools;Zoan, known as Tanis in Greek, was an ancient city in the Nile Delta and served as a capital of Egypt at various times. It was a center of political power and wisdom in Egypt. The term "princes" refers to the leaders or officials of this city. The statement that they are "mere fools" is a strong indictment of their lack of true wisdom, despite their high status. This reflects the biblical theme that true wisdom comes from God, not human status or intellect ( Proverbs 9:10). Pharaoh’s wise counselors give senseless advice.
Pharaoh, the ruler of Egypt, relied on his counselors for guidance. However, the text criticizes these advisors for their "senseless advice," indicating that their counsel lacks divine insight and understanding. This mirrors the biblical narrative where human wisdom is often contrasted with divine wisdom (1 Corinthians 1:20). Historically, Egypt was known for its wisdom and learning, yet this passage highlights the futility of wisdom that is not rooted in the fear of the Lord. How can you say to Pharaoh,
This rhetorical question challenges the audacity of the counselors who claim to possess wisdom. It underscores the disconnect between their self-perception and reality. In the biblical context, this serves as a reminder that God is the ultimate source of wisdom and authority, and human claims to wisdom are often flawed (Job 12:17). “I am one of the wise,
The claim to be "one of the wise" suggests a self-assuredness in their intellectual and advisory capabilities. However, the passage implies that such claims are empty without the foundation of divine truth. This echoes the biblical principle that true wisdom is characterized by humility and reverence for God (James 3:13-17). a son of eastern kings”?
The phrase "a son of eastern kings" may refer to a lineage or tradition of wisdom associated with the East, known for its sages and scholars. This could imply a heritage of wisdom and authority. However, the passage critiques this reliance on heritage and tradition, emphasizing that true wisdom is not inherited or cultural but is a gift from God (Daniel 2:20-22). This also foreshadows the coming of Christ, who is the embodiment of divine wisdom and the true King (Colossians 2:3). Persons / Places / Events 1. ZoanAn ancient city in Egypt, known for its wisdom and counsel. It was a significant center of power and influence in Egypt. 2. PharaohThe title used for the kings of Egypt, representing the political and spiritual leader of the nation. 3. Wise CounselorsAdvisors to Pharaoh, expected to provide guidance and wisdom in governance and decision-making. 4. Eastern KingsRefers to the rulers from the eastern regions, often associated with wisdom and learning. Teaching Points The Folly of Human WisdomHuman wisdom, apart from God, is ultimately foolish. We must seek divine wisdom rather than relying solely on human understanding. The Danger of PrideThe claim of being "one of the wise, a son of eastern kings" reflects pride. True wisdom comes from humility and reverence for God. The Importance of Godly CounselSurrounding ourselves with godly advisors is crucial. We should seek counsel from those who fear the Lord and align with His Word. God's Sovereignty Over NationsDespite the wisdom and power of earthly rulers, God is sovereign over all nations and their leaders. The Call to DiscernmentBelievers must discern between godly wisdom and worldly advice, ensuring that our decisions align with biblical principles. Bible Study Questions 1. How does the description of the princes of Zoan as "mere fools" challenge our understanding of worldly wisdom? 2. In what ways can pride in our own wisdom lead us away from God's truth, as seen in the counselors' claim to Pharaoh? 3. How can we ensure that the counsel we receive is godly and aligns with biblical principles? 4. What are some practical steps we can take to cultivate humility and seek God's wisdom in our daily lives? 5. How does understanding God's sovereignty over nations and leaders impact our perspective on current world events? Connections to Other Scriptures Exodus 7:11This verse describes Pharaoh's magicians and wise men, who are similar to the counselors mentioned in Isaiah 19:11. It highlights the reliance on human wisdom in contrast to God's power. 1 Corinthians 1:20Paul speaks about the futility of worldly wisdom compared to the wisdom of God, echoing the theme of Isaiah 19:11. Proverbs 3:5-7These verses emphasize trusting in the Lord rather than leaning on one's own understanding, contrasting the senseless advice of Pharaoh's counselors. People Assyrians, Egyptians, Isaiah, PharaohPlaces Assyria, Canaan, City of Destruction, Egypt, Memphis, Nile River, ZoanTopics Advice, Advisers, Ancient, Antiquity, Beasts, Brutish, Chiefs, Completely, Counsel, Counsellors, Counselors, Disciple, Early, Foolish, Fools, Guides, Kings, Mere, Nothing, Offspring, Ones, Pharaoh, Pharaoh's, Princes, Senseless, Stupid, Surely, Utter, Utterly, Wise, Wisest, Zoan, Zo'anDictionary of Bible Themes Isaiah 19:11 5779 advice
5780 advisers
7621 disciples, calling
8365 wisdom, human
8366 wisdom, source of Isaiah 19:11-13 8756 folly, examples
8760 fools, characteristics Library The Fruits of Grace
"In that day shall five cities in the land of Egypt speak the language of Canaan, and swear to the Lord of hosts; one shall be called the city of destruction. In that day shall there be an altar to the Lord in the midst of the land of Egypt, and a pillar at the border thereof to the Lord. And it all be for a sign and for a witness unto the Lord of hosts in the land of Egypt: for they shall cry unto the Lord because of the oppressors, and he shall send them a Saviour, and a great one, and he shall …
Charles Haddon Spurgeon—Spurgeon's Sermons Volume 62: 1916 'He Uttered his Voice, the Earth Melted'
'Then Isaiah the son of Amos sent to Hezekiah, saying, Thus saith the Lord God of Israel, That which thou hast prayed to Me against Sennacherib king of Assyria I have heard. 21. This is the word that the Lord hath spoken concerning him; The virgin, the daughter of Zion, hath despised thee, and laughed thee to scorn; the daughter of Jerusalem hath shaken her head at thee. 22. Whom hast thou reproached and blasphemed? and against whom hast thou exalted thy voice, and lifted up thine eyes on high? even …
Alexander Maclaren—Expositions of Holy Scripture Exposition of the Moral Law.
1. The Law was committed to writing, in order that it might teach more fully and perfectly that knowledge, both of God and of ourselves, which the law of nature teaches meagrely and obscurely. Proof of this, from an enumeration of the principal parts of the Moral Law; and also from the dictate of natural law, written on the hearts of all, and, in a manner, effaced by sin. 2. Certain general maxims. 1. From the knowledge of God, furnished by the Law, we learn that God is our Father and Ruler. Righteousness …
John Calvin—The Institutes of the Christian Religion a survey of the third and closing discourse of the prophet
We shall now, in conclusion, give a survey of the third and closing discourse of the prophet. After an introduction in vi. 1, 2, where the mountains serve only to give greater solemnity to the scene (in the fundamental passages Deut. xxxii. 1, and in Is. 1, 2, "heaven and earth" are mentioned for the same purposes, inasmuch as they are the most venerable parts of creation; "contend with the mountains" by taking them in and applying to [Pg 522] them as hearers), the prophet reminds the people of …
Ernst Wilhelm Hengstenberg—Christology of the Old Testament Manner of Covenanting.
Previous to an examination of the manner of engaging in the exercise of Covenanting, the consideration of God's procedure towards his people while performing the service seems to claim regard. Of the manner in which the great Supreme as God acts, as well as of Himself, our knowledge is limited. Yet though even of the effects on creatures of His doings we know little, we have reason to rejoice that, in His word He has informed us, and in His providence illustrated by that word, he has given us to …
John Cunningham—The Ordinance of Covenanting Covenanting Predicted in Prophecy.
The fact of Covenanting, under the Old Testament dispensations, being approved of God, gives a proof that it was proper then, which is accompanied by the voice of prophecy, affording evidence that even in periods then future it should no less be proper. The argument for the service that is afforded by prophecy is peculiar, and, though corresponding with evidence from other sources, is independent. Because that God willed to make known truth through his servants the prophets, we should receive it …
John Cunningham—The Ordinance of Covenanting Isaiah
CHAPTERS I-XXXIX Isaiah is the most regal of the prophets. His words and thoughts are those of a man whose eyes had seen the King, vi. 5. The times in which he lived were big with political problems, which he met as a statesman who saw the large meaning of events, and as a prophet who read a divine purpose in history. Unlike his younger contemporary Micah, he was, in all probability, an aristocrat; and during his long ministry (740-701 B.C., possibly, but not probably later) he bore testimony, as …
John Edgar McFadyen—Introduction to the Old Testament Links Isaiah 19:11 NIVIsaiah 19:11 NLTIsaiah 19:11 ESVIsaiah 19:11 NASBIsaiah 19:11 KJV
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