Isaiah 19:6

The canals will stink; the streams of Egypt will trickle and dry up; the reeds and rushes will wither.

Study Bible

The canals will stink
The Hebrew word for "canals" here is "ye'or," which often refers to the Nile or its branches. In ancient Egypt, the Nile was the lifeblood of the nation, essential for agriculture and daily life. The imagery of the canals stinking suggests a severe ecological and economic disaster. From a historical perspective, this could symbolize the collapse of Egypt's prosperity and the judgment of God upon a nation that had often been an adversary to Israel. Spiritually, it serves as a reminder of the consequences of turning away from God, as even the most reliable sources of sustenance can become corrupted.

the streams of Egypt will dwindle and dry up
The phrase "streams of Egypt" refers to the various tributaries and irrigation channels stemming from the Nile. The Hebrew word "nachal" is used here, which can mean a stream or a wadi, a seasonal river. The drying up of these streams signifies a profound drought and famine, a divine intervention disrupting the natural order. Historically, Egypt's dependence on the Nile for agriculture and survival makes this prophecy particularly devastating. It underscores the theme of divine sovereignty over nature and nations, reminding believers of God's ultimate control over all creation.

the reeds and rushes will wither
Reeds and rushes, translated from the Hebrew "kaneh" and "suph," were common plants along the Nile, used for making papyrus and other goods. Their withering represents not only environmental degradation but also the collapse of industry and economy. In a broader scriptural context, this imagery of withering plants is often used to depict the frailty of human endeavors without God's blessing. It serves as a metaphor for spiritual barrenness, urging believers to seek sustenance from the living water that only God can provide, as opposed to relying on earthly resources that are ultimately perishable.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Isaiah
A major prophet in the Old Testament, Isaiah is the author of the book bearing his name. He prophesied during the reigns of several kings of Judah and is known for his messages of both judgment and hope.

2. Egypt
A significant nation in biblical history, often representing worldly power and opposition to God's people. In Isaiah 19, Egypt is the subject of a prophecy concerning its downfall and eventual redemption.

3. The Nile River
While not mentioned explicitly in this verse, the Nile is central to Egypt's economy and agriculture. The prophecy of drying streams and canals directly impacts the Nile, symbolizing economic and ecological disaster.

4. Reeds and Rushes
These plants are common along the Nile and are symbolic of the natural resources and agricultural wealth of Egypt. Their withering signifies the collapse of Egypt's prosperity.

5. Prophetic Judgment
The drying up of Egypt's waters is part of a broader prophetic judgment against the nation, illustrating God's sovereignty over all nations.

Teaching Points

God's Sovereignty Over Nations
The prophecy against Egypt demonstrates that God holds authority over all nations and their resources. No nation is beyond His reach or control.

Dependence on God, Not Resources
The drying of Egypt's waters serves as a reminder that reliance on natural resources or economic strength is futile without acknowledging God's provision and sovereignty.

Judgment and Redemption
While Isaiah 19 begins with judgment, it ultimately points to redemption and healing. God's judgments are often a precursor to restoration for those who turn to Him.

Environmental Stewardship
The imagery of withering reeds and rushes can prompt reflection on our responsibility to care for God's creation, recognizing that misuse can lead to ecological and spiritual consequences.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the drying up of Egypt's waters in Isaiah 19:6 illustrate God's control over natural and economic resources?

2. In what ways can we see parallels between the judgment on Egypt and the plagues in Exodus? How does this shape our understanding of God's consistent character?

3. How can the prophecy of Egypt's downfall and eventual redemption in Isaiah 19 encourage us in times of personal or national crisis?

4. What lessons can we learn about the dangers of relying solely on material wealth and resources, as seen in the prophecy against Egypt?

5. How can we apply the concept of environmental stewardship in our lives today, considering the imagery of withering reeds and rushes in Isaiah 19:6?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 7:19-21
The plagues of Egypt, particularly the turning of the Nile into blood, serve as a historical precedent for God's judgment on Egypt's waters.

Ezekiel 30:12
This passage also speaks of the drying up of the Nile as part of God's judgment, reinforcing the theme of divine control over natural resources.

Revelation 16:12
The drying up of the Euphrates River in Revelation parallels the drying of Egypt's waters, symbolizing preparation for divine intervention and judgment.