Isaiah 20:6

And on that day the dwellers of this coastland will say, 'See what has happened to our source of hope, those to whom we fled for help and deliverance from the king of Assyria! How then can we escape?'"

Study Bible

In that day
This phrase often signifies a specific time of divine intervention or judgment in biblical prophecy. In the context of Isaiah, "that day" refers to a future moment when God's plans and purposes will be revealed and fulfilled. The Hebrew root for "day" is "yom," which can mean a literal day or an extended period. Here, it emphasizes the certainty and imminence of God's action. Historically, this points to the time when the prophecy concerning Egypt and Cush (modern-day Ethiopia) would be realized, demonstrating God's sovereignty over nations.

the dwellers of this coastland
The term "dwellers" refers to the inhabitants of a specific region, emphasizing their connection to the land and their shared fate. "Coastland" indicates a geographical area along the sea, likely referring to the regions of Philistia or the broader Mediterranean coast. This highlights the interconnectedness of nations and how the events concerning Egypt and Cush would impact surrounding areas. The Hebrew word "iy" for "coastland" can also mean "island," suggesting isolation or vulnerability, which is significant in the context of impending judgment.

will say
This phrase introduces a response or realization from the people. The Hebrew root "amar" for "say" implies not just speaking but also expressing a deep-seated understanding or acknowledgment. It suggests a moment of clarity or revelation where the people recognize the truth of God's warnings and the futility of their previous reliance on foreign powers.

See, this is what has happened
The word "see" is a call to attention, urging the audience to observe and understand the significance of the events. It is an invitation to witness the fulfillment of prophecy. The phrase "this is what has happened" underscores the reality and completion of God's word. It serves as a testament to the accuracy of prophetic warnings and the inevitability of divine judgment.

to those we relied on
This phrase highlights misplaced trust and dependence. The Hebrew root "batach" for "relied on" conveys a sense of security or confidence. The people had placed their trust in Egypt and Cush for protection and alliance, rather than in God. This serves as a cautionary reminder of the dangers of relying on human strength and alliances instead of divine providence.

to flee to for help
The act of fleeing for help indicates desperation and vulnerability. The Hebrew word "nus" for "flee" suggests a hurried escape or seeking refuge. This reflects the political and military alliances that Judah sought with Egypt and Cush, hoping for deliverance from Assyrian aggression. It underscores the futility of seeking salvation from sources other than God.

from the king of Assyria
The mention of the "king of Assyria" identifies the immediate threat and oppressor. Assyria was a dominant empire known for its military prowess and expansionist policies. Historically, Assyria posed a significant threat to the smaller nations of the Near East, including Judah. This reference serves to contextualize the geopolitical landscape of the time and the pressures faced by the people of Judah.

How then can we escape?
This rhetorical question captures the despair and hopelessness of the people. It reflects a moment of realization that their strategies and alliances have failed. The Hebrew root "malat" for "escape" implies deliverance or being saved. This question points to the ultimate need for divine intervention and the recognition that true deliverance comes only from God. It serves as a call to repentance and a return to faith in God's promises and power.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Dwellers of the Coastland
Refers to the inhabitants of the regions along the Mediterranean Sea, likely including Philistia and other nearby territories.

2. Source of Hope
This phrase refers to Egypt and Cush (modern-day Ethiopia), whom the people of the coastland looked to for military and political support against Assyria.

3. King of Assyria
Represents the Assyrian Empire, a dominant power during Isaiah's time, known for its military conquests and expansion.

4. Isaiah
The prophet who delivered God's message, warning of the futility of relying on foreign powers instead of God.

5. Event of Judgment
The prophecy foretells the downfall of Egypt and Cush, demonstrating the futility of relying on human alliances.

Teaching Points

Trust in God Alone
The passage underscores the futility of placing hope in human powers or alliances. True deliverance comes from God alone.

The Danger of Misplaced Hope
Relying on worldly powers can lead to disappointment and despair. Our ultimate hope should be in God's sovereignty and faithfulness.

Prophetic Fulfillment as a Warning
The fulfillment of Isaiah's prophecy serves as a historical lesson on the consequences of ignoring God's warnings and relying on human strength.

God's Sovereignty Over Nations
This passage reminds us that God is in control of all nations and their destinies. We should seek His guidance and protection above all else.

Reflecting on Our Sources of Hope
In our lives, we should evaluate where we place our hope and ensure it aligns with God's will and promises.

Bible Study Questions

1. What does Isaiah 20:6 teach us about the reliability of human alliances compared to God's faithfulness?

2. How can we apply the lesson of misplaced hope in our modern context, especially when facing personal or national crises?

3. In what ways does the prophecy against Egypt and Cush serve as a warning for us today regarding where we place our trust?

4. How do other scriptures, such as Isaiah 31:1-3 and Psalm 118:8-9, reinforce the message of Isaiah 20:6?

5. Reflect on a time when you relied on something or someone other than God for deliverance. What did you learn from that experience, and how can it shape your future decisions?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Isaiah 31:1-3
This passage warns against relying on Egypt for help, emphasizing trust in God rather than human strength.

Psalm 118:8-9
These verses highlight the importance of trusting in the Lord over human leaders or nations.

2 Kings 18:21
This verse describes Egypt as a "splintered reed," unreliable and unable to provide true support.