Isaiah 21:17

The remaining archers, the warriors of Kedar, will be few." For the LORD, the God of Israel, has spoken.

Study Bible

The remaining archers
This phrase indicates a remnant, suggesting that a significant number of archers have already been lost or will be lost. In the context of ancient warfare, archers were crucial for both offensive and defensive strategies. The Hebrew word for "archers" is "קֶשֶׁת" (qeshet), which can also mean "bow." This implies not just the individuals but the entire military capability associated with archery. The mention of "remaining" suggests a divine reduction, emphasizing God's sovereignty over the affairs of nations and His ability to diminish the strength of even the most formidable forces.

the warriors of Kedar
Kedar was a nomadic tribe descended from Ishmael, known for their skill in archery and their formidable presence in the Arabian desert. Historically, Kedarites were renowned for their military prowess and their ability to thrive in harsh desert conditions. The Hebrew root "קֵדָר" (Qedar) signifies "dark" or "mighty," reflecting both their physical environment and their reputation. This phrase highlights the specific target of God's judgment, showing that no nation, regardless of its strength or reputation, is beyond the reach of divine intervention.

will be few
This phrase underscores the outcome of divine judgment—reduction and diminishment. The Hebrew word "מְעַט" (me'at) means "few" or "little," indicating a significant decrease in number. This reduction serves as a tangible sign of God's power and the fulfillment of His word. It also serves as a warning to other nations that reliance on military might is futile against the will of God.

for the LORD, the God of Israel
This phrase establishes the authority and identity of the One who decrees this judgment. "LORD" is translated from the Hebrew "יהוה" (YHWH), the covenant name of God, emphasizing His eternal and unchanging nature. "The God of Israel" highlights the special relationship between God and His chosen people, Israel. This phrase reassures the Israelites of God's sovereignty and His active role in the affairs of nations, reinforcing their trust in Him.

has spoken
The finality and authority of God's word are emphasized here. The Hebrew word "דִּבֶּר" (diber) means "to speak" or "to declare," indicating that what God has spoken will surely come to pass. This phrase serves as a reminder of the power and reliability of God's word. In the biblical context, when God speaks, His words are not merely informative but performative—they accomplish what they declare. This assurance of divine fulfillment provides comfort and confidence to believers, affirming that God's purposes will prevail.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Archers of Kedar
Kedar was a nomadic tribe descended from Ishmael, known for their skill in archery. They were a powerful and influential group in the Arabian desert.

2. The LORD, the God of Israel
This refers to Yahweh, the covenant God of Israel, who is sovereign over all nations and peoples.

3. Prophecy of Isaiah
Isaiah, a major prophet in the Old Testament, is delivering a message of judgment against the nations, including Kedar.

Teaching Points

God's Sovereignty Over Nations
God's pronouncement against Kedar demonstrates His control over all nations. No power, no matter how skilled or numerous, can stand against His will.

The Certainty of God's Word
The phrase "For the LORD, the God of Israel, has spoken" underscores the reliability and authority of God's word. What He declares will come to pass.

The Transience of Human Strength
The reduction of Kedar's archers serves as a reminder that human strength and skill are temporary and ultimately subject to God's purposes.

The Importance of Humility
Recognizing God's sovereignty should lead us to humility, acknowledging that our abilities and resources are gifts from Him and should be used in accordance with His will.

Trust in God's Justice
The prophecy assures us that God will bring justice to the nations. We can trust Him to address wrongs and establish His righteousness.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the prophecy against Kedar in Isaiah 21:17 reflect God's sovereignty over all nations?

2. In what ways does the reduction of Kedar's archers illustrate the transience of human strength and skill?

3. How can we apply the certainty of God's word in our daily lives, especially when facing uncertainty?

4. What lessons can we learn about humility from the judgment pronounced on Kedar?

5. How does understanding God's justice in Isaiah 21:17 encourage us to trust Him in situations where we see injustice today?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 25:13
This verse lists the descendants of Ishmael, including Kedar, establishing their lineage and historical context.

Psalm 120:5
This verse mentions Kedar in a context of distress, highlighting the tension between Israel and the surrounding nations.

Jeremiah 49:28-29
These verses also prophesy against Kedar, emphasizing the theme of divine judgment on the nations.