Isaiah 19:7

The bulrushes by the Nile, by the mouth of the river, and all the fields sown along the Nile, will wither, blow away, and be no more.

Study Bible

The bulrushes by the Nile
The term "bulrushes" refers to the papyrus plant, which was abundant along the Nile River. In Hebrew, the word used is "גֹּמֶא" (gome), which signifies a type of reed or rush. Historically, papyrus was crucial in ancient Egypt for making paper, boats, and various other items. The Nile, being the lifeblood of Egypt, supported these plants, symbolizing the prosperity and sustenance of the nation. The mention of bulrushes highlights the natural resources that were integral to Egypt's economy and daily life.

by the mouth of the Nile
The "mouth of the Nile" refers to the delta region where the river fans out into several branches before emptying into the Mediterranean Sea. This area was fertile and densely populated, serving as a hub of agriculture and trade. The Hebrew word "פֶּה" (peh) for "mouth" can also imply an opening or entrance, symbolizing the gateway to Egypt's wealth and influence. The imagery of the Nile's mouth underscores the significance of this region in sustaining the nation's prosperity.

and every sown field
The phrase "every sown field" indicates the agricultural richness of the land. In Hebrew, "שָׂדֶה" (sadeh) means field, and "זָרַע" (zara) means to sow or plant. Agriculture was the backbone of ancient Egyptian society, with the Nile's annual flooding depositing nutrient-rich silt that made the land exceptionally fertile. This phrase emphasizes the dependency of Egypt on its agricultural output, which was a direct result of the Nile's bounty.

along the Nile
The repetition of "along the Nile" reinforces the centrality of the river to Egyptian life. The Nile was not only a source of water but also a means of transportation and communication. It was the artery that connected various parts of the country, facilitating trade and cultural exchange. The Hebrew preposition "עַל" (al) suggests proximity and reliance, highlighting the intimate relationship between the Egyptians and their river.

will dry up
The phrase "will dry up" is a prophetic declaration of judgment. The Hebrew verb "יָבֵשׁ" (yavesh) means to dry up or wither, often used in the context of divine retribution. This imagery of desolation serves as a warning of the consequences of turning away from God. In a broader biblical context, the drying up of water sources is symbolic of spiritual barrenness and the withdrawal of divine favor.

and blow away
The words "and blow away" convey a sense of transience and impermanence. The Hebrew verb "נָדַף" (nadaph) means to be driven or scattered by the wind. This imagery suggests the futility of relying on earthly resources and the inevitability of divine judgment. It serves as a reminder of the sovereignty of God over nature and nations, emphasizing that all human endeavors are ultimately subject to His will.

and be no more
The final phrase "and be no more" underscores the totality of the impending devastation. The Hebrew "אֵין" (ayin) means nothingness or nonexistence, indicating a complete eradication. This serves as a sobering reminder of the consequences of sin and the reality of divine justice. It calls believers to reflect on the transient nature of worldly wealth and the importance of seeking eternal treasures in God.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The Nile River
A major river in Egypt, central to the nation's agriculture and economy. It is often seen as a symbol of life and sustenance for the Egyptian people.

2. Bulrushes
Plants that grow along the banks of the Nile. They are symbolic of the fertility and life that the river provides.

3. Egypt
A nation historically significant in the Bible, often representing worldly power and reliance on human strength rather than God.

4. Isaiah
A prophet in the Old Testament who conveyed God's messages to the people of Israel and surrounding nations, including prophecies of judgment and redemption.

5. Judgment
The event described in this verse is part of a prophecy of judgment against Egypt, indicating a time when their reliance on the Nile will fail them.

Teaching Points

Reliance on God, Not Resources
The drying up of the Nile symbolizes the futility of relying on worldly resources. Believers are reminded to place their trust in God, who is the ultimate provider.

God's Sovereignty Over Nations
This prophecy highlights God's control over all nations and natural resources. It serves as a reminder that no nation is beyond God's reach or judgment.

The Consequences of Idolatry
Egypt's reliance on the Nile can be seen as a form of idolatry. Christians are encouraged to examine their lives for anything they might be placing above God.

The Certainty of God's Word
The fulfillment of prophecies like this one assures believers of the reliability and truth of God's Word. It encourages faith and trust in His promises.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the drying up of the Nile in Isaiah 19:7 serve as a metaphor for spiritual dryness in our lives when we rely on things other than God?

2. In what ways can we identify "Niles" in our own lives—things we depend on more than God—and how can we shift our reliance back to Him?

3. How does the prophecy against Egypt in Isaiah 19:7 reflect God's sovereignty and justice, and how should this influence our view of current world events?

4. What lessons can we learn from the repeated biblical theme of God judging nations that rely on their own strength rather than on Him?

5. How can we apply the message of Isaiah 19:7 to our personal lives, especially in times of uncertainty or when facing challenges that seem insurmountable?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 7:19-21
This passage describes the first plague in Egypt, where the Nile turned to blood, showing God's power over Egypt's primary source of life.

Ezekiel 29:9-10
This prophecy also speaks of the desolation of Egypt and the drying up of the Nile, reinforcing the theme of God's judgment on Egypt.

Revelation 16:12
This verse speaks of the drying up of the Euphrates River, symbolizing preparation for God's final judgment, similar to the judgment on Egypt.