Isaiah 34:15

There the owl will make her nest; she will lay and hatch her eggs and gather her brood under her shadow. Even there the birds of prey will gather, each with its mate.

Study Bible

There the owl will make her nest;
This phrase indicates desolation and abandonment, as owls are often associated with ruins and deserted places in biblical literature. The owl's presence signifies a place devoid of human habitation, reflecting God's judgment on the land. In the broader context of Isaiah 34, this chapter prophesies the destruction of Edom, a nation often at odds with Israel. The imagery of the owl nesting in a desolate area underscores the complete desolation that will come upon Edom as a result of divine judgment.

she will lay and hatch her eggs and gather her brood under her shadow.
This imagery of the owl laying and hatching eggs suggests a sense of permanence in the desolation. The land is so forsaken that wildlife can thrive undisturbed. The mention of gathering her brood under her shadow can be seen as a contrast to God's protective care over His people, as seen in passages like Psalm 91:4, where God gathers His people under His wings. Here, it highlights the absence of divine protection for Edom, leaving it to the wild creatures.

Even there the birds of prey will gather,
The gathering of birds of prey further emphasizes the theme of desolation and ruin. Birds of prey are often associated with death and destruction, as they feed on carrion. This gathering signifies that the land is not only abandoned by humans but is also a place of death and decay. This imagery is consistent with other prophetic writings, such as Jeremiah 12:9, where birds of prey are used to symbolize judgment and devastation.

each with its mate.
The mention of each bird of prey having its mate suggests a natural order and continuation of life, even in a place of judgment. This could imply that while human life and civilization are absent, nature continues its course. It also serves as a stark reminder of the completeness of God's judgment, where even the natural world adapts to the new reality of desolation. This phrase can be seen as a reflection of the order within God's creation, even amidst chaos and destruction, as seen in Genesis 1, where God establishes order in creation.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The Owl
Symbolic of desolation and uncleanliness in biblical literature, often associated with deserted places.

2. The Falcons
Birds of prey that signify desolation and the presence of death or destruction.

3. The Nest
Represents a place of dwelling or habitation, often used metaphorically for security or desolation depending on context.

4. Edom
The broader context of Isaiah 34 is a prophecy against Edom, representing nations opposed to God.

5. The Wilderness
A place of judgment and desolation, often used in the Bible to signify God's wrath and the absence of His blessing.

Teaching Points

Understanding Divine Judgment
Isaiah 34:15 illustrates the completeness of God's judgment. The presence of owls and falcons signifies total desolation, reminding us of the seriousness of opposing God.

Symbolism of Birds
In biblical symbolism, birds often represent spiritual truths. Here, they signify the aftermath of divine judgment, urging us to reflect on the consequences of sin.

God's Sovereignty
The prophecy against Edom and the imagery of desolation highlight God's control over nations and history. We are reminded to trust in His ultimate plan and justice.

Contrast with Divine Protection
While Isaiah 34:15 speaks of desolation, other scriptures like Psalm 91:4 offer a contrasting image of protection under God's wings. This encourages us to seek refuge in God rather than face desolation.

Call to Repentance
The desolation described serves as a warning and a call to repentance. It prompts us to examine our lives and align with God's will to avoid spiritual desolation.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the imagery of the owl and falcon in Isaiah 34:15 help us understand the nature of God's judgment?

2. In what ways does the desolation described in Isaiah 34:15 contrast with the protection offered in Psalm 91:4?

3. How can we apply the lessons of divine judgment in Isaiah 34:15 to our personal lives and communities today?

4. What other biblical passages use birds as symbols, and how do they compare to the imagery in Isaiah 34:15?

5. How does understanding the historical context of Edom enhance our interpretation of Isaiah 34:15 and its message for us today?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Jeremiah 50:39
This verse also speaks of desolation, where wild animals inhabit the ruins of Babylon, similar to the imagery in Isaiah 34:15.

Revelation 18:2
Describes Babylon the Great as a dwelling place for demons and unclean birds, echoing the theme of desolation and divine judgment.

Psalm 91:4
Contrasts the protective imagery of being under God's wings with the desolation under the wings of the owl in Isaiah 34:15.