Isaiah 7:24

Men will go there with bow and arrow, for the land will be covered with briers and thorns.

Study Bible

Men will go there
This phrase suggests a future action, indicating a time when people will venture into a particular area. The Hebrew root for "go" is "halak," which often implies movement or journeying. In the context of Isaiah, this movement is not one of prosperity or peace but rather a necessity due to desolation. Historically, this reflects the period of judgment and desolation that would come upon the land due to the people's disobedience to God. It serves as a reminder of the consequences of turning away from divine guidance.

with bow and arrow
The use of "bow and arrow" signifies preparation for hunting or defense, indicating a return to a more primitive or survivalist lifestyle. In ancient times, these were tools of both sustenance and protection. The Hebrew words "qeshet" (bow) and "chets" (arrow) are often associated with warfare or hunting. This imagery suggests a land so desolate that people must rely on hunting for survival, highlighting the severity of the judgment upon the land. It serves as a metaphor for the spiritual barrenness that results from forsaking God.

for the land
The "land" here refers to the physical territory of Judah, which was under threat during Isaiah's time. The Hebrew word "erets" can mean earth, land, or territory, and in this context, it underscores the covenant relationship between God and His people, where the land is both a blessing and a responsibility. The condition of the land often mirrored the spiritual state of the people, serving as a tangible representation of their relationship with God.

will be covered
This phrase indicates a complete and overwhelming transformation of the land. The Hebrew root "malah" means to fill or cover, suggesting that the change is extensive and thorough. This transformation is not for the better but rather a sign of neglect and abandonment. It reflects the consequences of the people's actions and the fulfillment of prophetic warnings.

with briers and thorns
"Briers and thorns" symbolize desolation and hardship. In Hebrew, "shamir" (briers) and "shayith" (thorns) are often used to describe wastelands or areas that are uninhabitable. This imagery is reminiscent of the curse upon the ground in Genesis 3:18, where thorns and thistles are a result of the fall of man. In Isaiah's prophecy, it serves as a stark reminder of the spiritual decay and the physical manifestation of divine judgment. It calls the people to repentance and a return to God, who alone can restore and heal the land.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Isaiah
A major prophet in the Old Testament, Isaiah is the author of the book. He prophesied during the reigns of several kings of Judah, including Ahaz, and his messages often included warnings of judgment and promises of hope.

2. Judah
The southern kingdom of Israel, where Isaiah primarily ministered. During the time of this prophecy, Judah was under threat from surrounding nations.

3. King Ahaz
The king of Judah during Isaiah's prophecy. He is known for his lack of faith and reliance on foreign alliances rather than trusting in God.

4. Briers and Thorns
Symbolic of desolation and judgment. In the context of Isaiah's prophecy, they represent the consequences of Judah's disobedience and lack of faith.

5. Assyrian Threat
The geopolitical backdrop of Isaiah's prophecy, where the Assyrian empire posed a significant threat to Judah and its neighbors.

Teaching Points

Consequences of Disobedience
Isaiah 7:24 serves as a stark reminder that turning away from God leads to desolation and hardship. Just as Judah faced physical desolation, spiritual disobedience in our lives can lead to spiritual barrenness.

Trust in God Over Human Alliances
King Ahaz's reliance on foreign powers rather than God serves as a cautionary tale. We are encouraged to place our trust in God rather than in worldly solutions or alliances.

Symbolism of Briers and Thorns
The imagery of briers and thorns is a powerful symbol of the consequences of sin. It challenges us to examine areas in our lives where sin may be causing spiritual desolation and to seek God's restoration.

Hope Amidst Judgment
While Isaiah's message includes judgment, it also points to hope and redemption. We are reminded that God's ultimate plan is one of restoration and salvation through Christ.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the imagery of briers and thorns in Isaiah 7:24 relate to the consequences of sin in our own lives?

2. In what ways can we be tempted to rely on human solutions rather than trusting in God, as King Ahaz did?

3. How do the themes of judgment and hope in Isaiah 7:24 connect to the broader message of the Gospel?

4. What practical steps can we take to ensure that our spiritual "land" is fruitful rather than desolate?

5. How can the lessons from Isaiah 7:24 help us in dealing with current challenges or threats in our personal or communal lives?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 3:18
The mention of "thorns and thistles" as part of the curse after the Fall connects to Isaiah 7:24, symbolizing the consequences of sin and disobedience.

Hebrews 6:8
This passage speaks of land that produces thorns and thistles being worthless, drawing a parallel to the judgment and desolation described in Isaiah.

Matthew 13:7, 22
Jesus' parable of the sower mentions thorns choking the seed, symbolizing the cares of the world and deceitfulness of wealth, which can be related to the spiritual desolation in Isaiah's prophecy.