Isaiah 47:6

I was angry with My people; I profaned My heritage, and I placed them under your control. You showed them no mercy; even on the elderly you laid a most heavy yoke.

Study Bible

I was angry with My people
This phrase reveals God's righteous indignation towards His chosen people, Israel. The Hebrew word for "angry" here is "קָצַף" (qatsaph), which conveys a sense of intense displeasure or wrath. Historically, this anger is rooted in Israel's persistent disobedience and idolatry, which led to their exile. God's anger is not capricious but is a response to covenant unfaithfulness, highlighting His holiness and justice. This serves as a reminder of the seriousness of sin and the importance of living in obedience to God's commands.

I desecrated My inheritance
The term "desecrated" comes from the Hebrew "חָלַל" (chalal), meaning to profane or defile. God's "inheritance" refers to Israel, His chosen people, whom He set apart for His purposes. By allowing them to be conquered and exiled, God permitted their sanctity to be violated as a consequence of their sin. This action underscores the gravity of Israel's rebellion and the lengths to which God will go to correct His people, emphasizing His sovereignty and the sanctity of His covenant relationship with them.

I gave them into your hand
This phrase indicates God's sovereign control over the nations. The "hand" symbolizes power and control, and here it refers to Babylon, the instrument of God's judgment. The historical context is the Babylonian exile, where God used a pagan nation to discipline His people. This demonstrates that God can use any means to fulfill His purposes, and it reassures believers that even in judgment, God is in control, working all things according to His divine plan.

and you showed them no mercy
The lack of mercy shown by Babylon is highlighted here. The Hebrew word for "mercy" is "רַחַם" (racham), which implies compassion and pity. Despite being used by God as an instrument of judgment, Babylon exceeded their mandate by treating the Israelites with excessive cruelty. This serves as a warning that while God may use nations or individuals to accomplish His purposes, they are still accountable for their actions. It also reflects God's character as one who values mercy and compassion, even in judgment.

Even on the aged you laid a very heavy yoke
The "aged" refers to the elderly among the Israelites, who were subjected to harsh treatment. The "heavy yoke" symbolizes oppression and burden. In ancient times, a yoke was used to control and direct animals, and metaphorically, it represents subjugation and hardship. This phrase highlights the extent of Babylon's cruelty, as they showed no respect or compassion for the vulnerable. It serves as a reminder of the importance of justice and mercy, and it foreshadows God's eventual judgment on Babylon for their excesses. This also reassures believers that God sees and will address all injustices in His perfect timing.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Babylon
A significant empire in the ancient Near East, known for its wealth, power, and idolatry. In Isaiah 47, Babylon is personified as a woman who will face judgment for her pride and cruelty.

2. Israel
God's chosen people, who were taken into captivity by Babylon as a result of their disobedience to God. Isaiah 47:6 speaks to the consequences of Babylon's harsh treatment of Israel.

3. God's Anger
The passage reflects God's righteous anger towards His people due to their sins, leading to their captivity. However, it also highlights His anger towards Babylon for their excessive cruelty.

Teaching Points

God's Sovereignty in Judgment
God uses nations and events to accomplish His purposes, even when it involves disciplining His own people. Understanding this helps us trust in His sovereign plan, even in difficult times.

The Consequences of Pride and Cruelty
Babylon's downfall serves as a warning against pride and mistreatment of others. We are called to humility and compassion, recognizing that God sees and judges our actions.

God's Justice and Mercy
While God allows His people to face consequences for their sins, He also holds their oppressors accountable. This dual aspect of God's character assures us of His justice and mercy.

The Importance of Repentance
Israel's captivity was a result of their unrepentant hearts. This reminds us of the importance of turning back to God and seeking His forgiveness to avoid spiritual captivity.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the historical context of Babylon's treatment of Israel enhance our understanding of Isaiah 47:6?

2. In what ways does the theme of divine justice in Isaiah 47:6 relate to the broader biblical account of God's dealings with nations?

3. How can we apply the lessons of pride and humility from Babylon's example to our personal lives today?

4. What does Isaiah 47:6 teach us about God's character, particularly in terms of His justice and mercy?

5. How can the themes of repentance and restoration in Isaiah 47:6 encourage us in our spiritual walk and relationship with God?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Jeremiah 25:11-12
This passage speaks of the seventy-year captivity of Israel in Babylon and the subsequent judgment on Babylon, connecting to the theme of divine justice and the limits of God's patience with oppressors.

Lamentations 1:5
This verse describes the suffering of Israel due to their sins, similar to the context of Isaiah 47:6, where God's anger leads to their subjugation.

Revelation 18:7-8
The fall of Babylon in Revelation echoes the themes of pride and judgment found in Isaiah 47, illustrating the ultimate downfall of those who oppose God.