Isaiah 21:5

They prepare a table, they lay out a carpet, they eat, they drink! Rise up, O princes, oil the shields!

Study Bible

They set the tables
This phrase suggests preparation and anticipation. In the ancient Near Eastern context, setting tables was a sign of hospitality and readiness for a significant event, often a feast or a gathering. The Hebrew root here implies a deliberate act of arranging or organizing, which can be seen as a metaphor for preparing for God's unfolding plan. Spiritually, it calls believers to be ready and vigilant, setting their own "tables" in life to welcome God's presence and purpose.

they spread out the rugs
The spreading of rugs indicates comfort and luxury, often associated with royalty or important guests. Historically, rugs were used to create a welcoming and honorable environment. The Hebrew context suggests an act of making a place suitable for rest or celebration. This can inspire Christians to prepare their hearts and lives as a fitting dwelling for the Holy Spirit, ensuring that their spiritual "homes" are places of peace and reverence.

they eat
Eating in biblical times was not just a physical act but a communal and covenantal one. It signifies fellowship, unity, and the sharing of life. The Hebrew understanding of eating often involves a deeper relational aspect, pointing to the importance of community and shared experiences in the faith journey. For believers, this can be a reminder of the importance of spiritual nourishment and the communal aspect of the Lord's Supper.

they drink!
Drinking, like eating, is a symbol of joy and celebration. In the Hebrew tradition, wine was often associated with gladness and divine blessing. This phrase can be seen as a call to partake in the joy of the Lord, to celebrate His goodness and provision. It also serves as a reminder of the new covenant in Christ's blood, which believers commemorate through communion.

Rise up, O princes
This is a call to action, a summons to those in positions of authority or leadership. The Hebrew root for "rise up" conveys urgency and readiness. It challenges leaders to be vigilant and proactive, especially in times of impending danger or significant change. For Christians, it is a reminder of the responsibility to lead with integrity and to be alert to God's call.

oil the shields!
Oiling shields was a practice in ancient warfare to maintain the leather's flexibility and effectiveness. The Hebrew context here implies preparation for battle. Spiritually, it symbolizes the need for readiness and protection against spiritual warfare. For believers, it is a call to equip themselves with the armor of God, ensuring that their faith is active and resilient against the challenges of the world.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Babylon
The context of Isaiah 21 is a prophecy concerning the fall of Babylon. Babylon was a significant empire known for its wealth and power.

2. Princes
Refers to the leaders or rulers who are being called to action in the face of impending danger.

3. Isaiah
The prophet who delivers this message from God, warning of the coming judgment on Babylon.

4. The Watchman
In the broader context of Isaiah 21, a watchman is set to observe and report the fall of Babylon.

5. The Banquet
The setting of a feast or banquet, symbolizing complacency and false security in the face of looming threat.

Teaching Points

Complacency in Comfort
The scene of feasting and drinking highlights the danger of becoming complacent in times of comfort. Believers are called to remain vigilant and spiritually prepared, even when life seems secure.

Urgency of Readiness
The command to "oil the shields" signifies the need for readiness and preparation. In spiritual terms, this means maintaining a strong faith and being prepared for spiritual battles.

Leadership Responsibility
The call to the princes underscores the responsibility of leaders to be alert and proactive in protecting those under their care. Christian leaders are tasked with guiding others in spiritual preparedness.

Spiritual Warfare
The imagery of preparing shields points to the reality of spiritual warfare. Christians must be equipped with the armor of God to stand firm against spiritual threats.

Divine Judgment
The prophecy against Babylon serves as a reminder of God's sovereignty and the certainty of divine judgment. It calls believers to live righteously and be aware of the temporal nature of earthly powers.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the setting of a banquet in Isaiah 21:5 reflect the spiritual state of complacency, and how can we guard against this in our own lives?

2. In what ways does the command to "oil the shields" apply to our spiritual lives today, and how can we ensure we are prepared for spiritual battles?

3. How does the fall of Babylon in Isaiah 21 relate to the concept of divine judgment, and what lessons can we learn about God's sovereignty?

4. What responsibilities do Christian leaders have in ensuring their communities are spiritually prepared, and how can they effectively fulfill this role?

5. How can the themes of vigilance and readiness in Isaiah 21:5 be connected to the teachings of Jesus and the apostles regarding the end times?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Daniel 5
The fall of Babylon is vividly depicted in the account of Belshazzar's feast, where the writing on the wall foretells the kingdom's end.

1 Thessalonians 5:2-3
Paul warns that the Day of the Lord will come like a thief in the night, while people are saying, "Peace and safety," similar to the complacency depicted in Isaiah 21:5.

Ephesians 6:10-18
The call to "oil the shields" can be connected to the spiritual armor of God, emphasizing readiness and vigilance.