Isaiah 19:16
In that day the Egyptians will be like women. They will tremble with fear beneath the uplifted hand of the LORD of Hosts, when He brandishes it against them.
In that day
This phrase is often used in prophetic literature to denote a specific time of divine intervention or judgment. In the context of Isaiah, "that day" refers to a future time when God will act decisively. The Hebrew term "בַּיּ֣וֹם הַה֔וּא" (bayyom hahu) is a marker of eschatological significance, indicating a period when God's purposes will be fulfilled. This phrase sets the stage for a dramatic shift in the narrative, emphasizing the certainty and imminence of God's actions.

the Egyptians
The Egyptians were a powerful and influential civilization in the ancient Near East, often seen as a symbol of human pride and idolatry. Historically, Egypt was a land of great wealth and military might, frequently interacting with Israel, sometimes as an ally and other times as an adversary. In the biblical narrative, Egypt often represents reliance on human strength rather than on God. The mention of Egyptians here serves as a reminder of their historical significance and their role in God's redemptive plan.

will be like women
This phrase reflects the cultural context of the ancient Near East, where women were often perceived as less physically formidable than men. The comparison is not meant to demean women but to convey a sense of fear and vulnerability. In the prophetic context, it illustrates the complete reversal of Egypt's former strength and confidence. The imagery underscores the idea that even the mighty will be brought low in the face of God's judgment.

They will tremble
The Hebrew word "וְחָרַ֥ד" (vecharad) conveys a sense of intense fear or trembling. This reaction is not merely physical but also psychological and spiritual, indicating a profound realization of their helplessness before God's power. The trembling of the Egyptians signifies the overwhelming nature of God's presence and the futility of resisting His will.

with fear
Fear, in this context, is a recognition of God's holiness and power. It is a reverential awe that acknowledges God's sovereignty and justice. The Egyptians' fear is a response to the divine judgment that is about to unfold, highlighting the seriousness of their situation and the need for repentance.

because of the uplifted hand
The "uplifted hand" is a metaphor for God's power and authority. In biblical imagery, an uplifted hand often signifies readiness to act, whether in judgment or deliverance. Here, it represents God's impending action against Egypt, a demonstration of His control over nations. This phrase reassures believers of God's active involvement in the world and His ability to bring about His purposes.

that the LORD of Hosts
The title "LORD of Hosts" (יְהוָ֣ה צְבָא֔וֹת, Yahweh Tseva'ot) emphasizes God's supreme command over the heavenly armies and all creation. It is a reminder of His omnipotence and His role as the divine warrior who fights on behalf of His people. This title reassures the faithful of God's protection and the certainty of His promises.

will brandish against them
The act of brandishing suggests a display of power and readiness to strike. It conveys the idea of God actively preparing to execute judgment. This imagery serves as a warning to the Egyptians and a call to repentance, while also offering hope to God's people that justice will be served. The certainty of God's action is a source of comfort and assurance for those who trust in Him.

Persons / Places / Events
1. Egyptians
The people of Egypt, representing a powerful nation often in opposition to Israel in biblical history.

2. The LORD of Hosts
A title for God emphasizing His sovereignty and command over the heavenly armies.

3. The Uplifted Hand
A metaphor for God's power and judgment, often used to describe His intervention in human affairs.
Teaching Points
The Fear of the LORD
The fear of God is a recurring theme in Scripture, emphasizing reverence and awe. This passage reminds us that even powerful nations are subject to God's authority.

God's Sovereignty Over Nations
God is not only the God of Israel but of all nations. His plans and purposes extend beyond any single nation, and His will is ultimately accomplished.

Judgment and Mercy
While this passage speaks of judgment, it is important to remember that God's judgments are often a call to repentance and restoration.

The Power of God
The imagery of God's uplifted hand serves as a reminder of His omnipotence. Believers can find comfort in knowing that God is in control, even when circumstances seem dire.

Response to God's Authority
The appropriate response to God's authority is humility and submission. This passage challenges us to examine our own lives and ensure we are living in alignment with God's will.
Bible Study Questions
1. How does the imagery of the "uplifted hand of the LORD" in Isaiah 19:16 help us understand God's power and authority?

2. In what ways can the fear of the LORD be a positive force in a believer's life?

3. How does the prophecy against Egypt in Isaiah 19:16 relate to God's sovereignty over all nations today?

4. What are some modern-day "Egypts" that might cause us to tremble, and how can we find peace in God's sovereignty?

5. How can we apply the lessons of God's judgment and mercy in Isaiah 19:16 to our personal walk with Christ?
Connections to Other Scriptures
Exodus 15:14-16
This passage describes the fear of the nations, including Egypt, at the power of God demonstrated during the Exodus.

Jeremiah 46:24-26
Jeremiah prophesies about the fear and defeat of Egypt, similar to Isaiah's prophecy.

Hebrews 10:31
This verse speaks to the fearfulness of falling into the hands of the living God, echoing the theme of divine judgment.
Mingled Judgment and MercyE. Johnson Isaiah 19:16-25
People
Assyrians, Egyptians, Isaiah, Pharaoh
Places
Assyria, Canaan, City of Destruction, Egypt, Memphis, Nile River, Zoan
Topics
Afraid, Almighty, Armies, Dread, Egypt, Egyptians, Fear, Hosts, Lord's, Mourned, Raises, Shakes, Shaketh, Shaking, Shudder, Stretched, Tremble, Uplifted, Wave, Waving, Women
Dictionary of Bible Themes
Isaiah 19:16

     1265   hand of God
     8650   hands, lifting up

Isaiah 19:16-17

     9220   day of the LORD

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

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