The term "burden" in the context of biblical prophecy often refers to a divine message of judgment or oracle against nations or peoples. In the prophetic books of the Old Testament, several burdens are pronounced against Israel's enemies, reflecting God's sovereignty and justice. These burdens serve as both warnings to the nations and assurances to Israel of God's ultimate plan and protection.

Isaiah's Burdens

The Book of Isaiah contains several burdens against Israel's enemies, emphasizing God's control over all nations. Isaiah 13 begins with the "burden against Babylon," a prophecy foretelling the downfall of the Babylonian empire. Isaiah 13:1 states, "This is the burden against Babylon that Isaiah son of Amoz received." The prophecy describes the Medes as the instruments of God's judgment, highlighting the theme of divine retribution.

Isaiah 15 and 16 present the "burden against Moab," predicting devastation and mourning for Moab. Isaiah 15:1 declares, "This is the burden against Moab: Ar in Moab is devastated, destroyed in a night." The prophecy underscores the transient nature of human power and the certainty of God's judgment.

Jeremiah's Oracles

Jeremiah also delivers burdens against various nations. In Jeremiah 46-51, the prophet pronounces judgments against Egypt, Philistia, Moab, Ammon, Edom, Damascus, Kedar, Elam, and Babylon. These chapters illustrate God's authority over all nations and His ability to use them according to His purposes. Jeremiah 46:1 introduces these messages: "This is the word of the LORD that came to Jeremiah the prophet concerning the nations."

Ezekiel's Prophecies

Ezekiel's prophecies include burdens against Tyre, Sidon, and Egypt. In Ezekiel 26-28, the prophet speaks against Tyre, predicting its destruction due to its pride and opposition to Israel. Ezekiel 26:2-3 states, "Son of man, because Tyre has said of Jerusalem, 'Aha! The gateway of the peoples is broken; it has swung open to me; I will be filled now that she lies in ruins,' therefore this is what the Lord GOD says: Behold, I am against you, O Tyre."

Amos and Obadiah

The Book of Amos begins with a series of judgments against Israel's neighbors, including Damascus, Gaza, Tyre, Edom, Ammon, and Moab. Amos 1:3 starts with, "This is what the LORD says: 'For three transgressions of Damascus, even four, I will not revoke My judgment, because they threshed Gilead with sledges of iron.'"

Obadiah's single-chapter prophecy focuses on Edom, condemning it for its violence against Jacob. Obadiah 1:1 introduces the vision: "This is the vision of Obadiah: This is what the Lord GOD says about Edom—We have heard a message from the LORD, and an envoy has been sent among the nations to say, 'Rise up, and let us go to battle against her!'"

Zephaniah and Zechariah

Zephaniah 2:4-15 contains burdens against Philistia, Moab, Ammon, Cush, and Assyria, emphasizing the comprehensive nature of God's judgment. Zechariah 9-11 includes burdens against Hadrach, Damascus, Tyre, Sidon, and the Philistines, highlighting God's protection of His people and the coming of the Messiah.

These burdens against Israel's enemies reveal God's justice and His commitment to His covenant people. They serve as reminders of the consequences of pride, idolatry, and opposition to God's will, while also offering hope for Israel's restoration and the ultimate triumph of God's kingdom.