Observations Upon the Old Testament
my soul failed] Psal. XXX. 7. she suffers now; she may thank her self for it.
I sought him ] She goes not to bed again; but seeks him, with all her might: seeks, and calls, and gives not over. This is the guise of the godly, Isaiah XXVI. 9.
I could not find him ] She was so justly dealt withal, Isaiah LIX. 1, 2. And this is the Churches soarest affliction, whereof they bitterly complain, Lam. III. 8, 44. Job XXX. 20. Hab. I. 2. A spiritual desertion is a kind of Hell itself to a godly soul. This sense of Loss they count heavier then the sense of Paine. And indeed the tears of Hell are not sufficient to bewail the Loss of Heaven.
The Watchmen ] Now she will seek him through thick and thin, [verse 7] by night itself, without delay, among the Watchmen, and midst of dangers. Nothing shall stay her, she is at no rest without him. See chap. III. 3.
they smote me ] Even these Watchmen, Ezek. XXXIII. 2, 6, 7. smote her with the tongue of just reproof and rebuke, out of God's Word, for her former fault, and slothful neglect of duty.
I charge you ] See chap. II. 7. [verse 8] and chap. III. 5. But here her charge varies. Tell him, and what shall ye tell him? as the Hebrew hath it. Like that phrase in Hos. IX. 14
sick of love] Chap. II. 5.
What is thy beloved, [verse 9] &c. ] And they double the demand: And that by reason of her so extraordinary charging them, if not swearing and adjuring of them. Some singular thing then was in the man, and in the matter. They question likely, not as utterly ignorant of Christ; but that they might hear the Church what she had to say to him; and by her discourse they might better their knowledge, 1 Pet. I. 12.
My beloved, [verse 10] &c. ] The Churches large character of Christ to them, she describes him, and his particular praises in his several parts, in sundry Similies, but no hyperbolies; for Christ admits of no hyperbolie; he is altogether matchless and incomparable. She describes his color, head, locks, eyes; cheeks, lips, hands, belly, legs, countenance, mouth; and that he is altogether lovely. Her Love wants no Rhetoric to display his parts; she thinks she can never speak enough of him.
Whither ] The effect of the Churches speech being so full of affection and admiration, [chapter VI] [verse 1] what it wrought upon the daughters of Jerusalem. And here they double their demand; as they did, chap. V. 9.
thou fairest ] Though she acknowledged herself black, chap. I. 6. And was now in a distress and a desertion.
that we may ] They cannot help her, to satisfy her desire; but they will join to seek him with her. So much good they received by her holy conference with them. And so God blesseth the holy conferences of his people; and the communion of Saints, Zech. VIII. 21. And surely best it is to seek Christ with the Church, in her company; she being the pillar and ground of truth, and as that pillar of fire in the Wilderness, to guide and go before us.
is gone down ] See before chap. V. 6. [verse 2] But now she can tell it her self; and tell it to others. And she is ready so to do, apt to communicate all she knows, all she can tell them, 1 Cor. XII. 7. Not the pouring out, but the want of pouring out, dries up the streaming of that oil of Grace, 2 Kings IV. 6.
into his garden] Chap. IV. 16.
I am my beloveds] Chap. [verse 3] II. 16. and chap. VII. 10. Here her faith reviveth. And come what will come, she rests upon this resolution.
Thou art beautiful, [verse 4] &c. ] The Church having confessed her fault; and seeking so earnestly to repair the breach, and renew her love and interest in him; Christ hereupon is so ready to receive her, and afresh so highly to praise and commend her; as formerly he had done, ch. IV. which shows that he is no changeling; and makes to her singular comfort, Jer. III. 22.
as Tirza] Josh. XII. 24. 1 Kings XIV. 17. and chap. XV. 33. so beautiful a City.
as Jerusalem] Lam. I. 1. and chap. II. 15, 16. Psal. CXXII. 3. and XLVIII. 2. and LXXXVII. 3. and CXXXII.
terrible ] To daunt enemies, and draw hearts unto her, she is admirable, inexpugnable.
Turn away thine eyes] Chap. [verse 5] IV. 9. If she be sick of his love, he is overcome by hers: no love lost between them.
threescore Queens ] This verse is put hypotheticaly, [verse 8] by way of supposition: Be it so.
my Dove ] The rendition of the case, [verse 9] and comparison; Yet allt hose would not equal thee; yea, even they themselves would yield the praise and blessing to thee, Deut. XXXIII. 29. 2 Sam. VII. 23. Ps. CXLIV. 15.
Who is she, [verse 10] &c. ] Many make this the praise which the Queens and Concubines give the Church; not hereby doubting, but admiring her. and her excellency. Yet I see not but they may well be a continuation of Christ's speech in praising her; not unlike to that in the fourth verse aforegoing.
I went down ] Christ's inspection and care of his Church, [verse 11] and Congregations, and how they fructify, and flourish, Isaiah V. 2. Matth. XXI. 34. 1 Cor. IX. 7. This phrase speaks not a present ignorance in him; no more then that phrase, Gen. XVIII. 21.
Or ever I was aware] i. e. [verse 12] not ignorantly; but suddenly. As Isaiah XLVII. 11.
my soul, &c. ] This seems to denote the affectionate haste and desire, wherewith Christ was carried on, in a kind of insensible manner, to revisit his Church, and restore comforts to her, to present his ardent and longing affection to behold the flourishings and propagations of his Church.
Amminadab ] Likely some swift Charet-driver, some translate it appellatively, my willing people. Some make the whole verse to be the speech of the Church, confessing her ignorance that Christ was gone down to that end, as is expressed in the former verse; But that he was gone away from her in angry displeasure, for her unworthy and sluggish neglect of him, chap. III. 3. And therefore she drove on so furiously to find him out again; yea, so furiously, that she over past him. So obscure is this text, and the meaning so dark and difficult to determine.
Return, &c. ] Various likewise are the Opinions of Interpreters here: I conceive, The word fairly come of, as the words of Christ to his Church; mainly and earnestly recalling her to return to him.
O Shulamite ] Not Shunamite. Some make it the feminine of Solomon ; and so to denote his wife; the women being usually called after their husbands names, Isaiah IV. 1. And so his Spouse is the figure of the Church of Christ throughout this Song.
that we may look upon thee ] view and contemplate thee; and thy beauty with complacency and delight.
What will ye see ] Seemes best to be Christ's words still; in answer of his own question.
as it were the company of two armies ] As in that joyful day at Mahanaim, and the Vision there of Jacob, Gen. XXXII. 2. The Spouse here likened to these two armies. Or, that she is so guarded and safe-guarded, with such armies, as Jacob there was. Yet some apply this to that intestine war within her, of the flesh and spirit, fighting as two armies within her, as the twins did in Rebecca's womb.
Christ here to the tenth verse, continueth his Praising of her again, running over every grace and ornament in her, from the lowest to the highest; together with his joy and pleasure that he takes in her; And all under new and fresh Similies and exemplifications. And thereupon, in the tenth verse, and to the end of this chapter, the Church renews the joyful profession of her love to him, and of his desire towards her; inviting him to her Assemblies to see them how they prosper, and she promiseth to give and devote all her best fruits wholly to him, for whom alone she had brought them forth, and by whose blessing she flourished with all manner & sorts of them, both new and old.
How beautiful ] This beautifulnesse is ascribed, [chapter VII] [verse 1] with admiration, to sundry parts of her; and to her whole person oftentimes.
O Princes daughter] 1 John III. 1. John I. 12. 2 Cor. VI. 18.
the King is held in the galleries ] Christ himself. [verse 5] Yea, and no earthly King but would find in his heart to be tied to these walks, and to be held, as it were, prisoner in the sight of thee and thy bravery, Ps. CXXXVIII. 4, 5. and XXVII. 4. being so astonished, and never satisfied with the sight of thee, and thy beauty, and so over-valuing it above his own, and all other earthly glory whatsoever.
How fair ] Such passionate admiration of her, [verse 6] proceeds from his wonderful love to her; agreeing well to that saying, Isaiah LXII. 4, 5. and LXV. 19. Zeph. III. 17. And cannot but procure some suitable reciprocal love to him, Ezra IX. 13, 14. 2 Cor. V. 14.
Palme-tree ] The Emblem and symbol of constancy, [verse 7] and fruitfulness, patience, and victory, Psalm XCII. 12, 13. Apoc. VII. 9, 10.
go up to the Palme-tree ] He will familiarly dwell with his Church; [verse 8] and with the boughs and branches thereof; purging and pruning them, and making them fruitful.
and the smell of thy nose ] Or nostrils; the breath that thence proceedeth, shall be sweet, odoriferous, and grateful: to those at least that have their inward senses habitualy and spiritually exercised.
causing the lips ] Hyperbolicaly, [verse 9] but excellently expressing the virtue and efficacy, the power and vigor of the Word and Gospel, preached under the similitude of the best wine, and the operation of it. They that have tasted of the power of the good Word of God, and of the world to come, cannot forbear to declare and speak of it to • ll the world, Acts IV. 20. and II. 4, 11, 14.
I am my Beloveds The Churches renewed speech and profession, [verse 10] upon Christ's so great commendations of her, and affections towards her, notwithstanding her former failings and imperfections. She grows up to this confident assurance.
Come ] She is emboldened hereupon to these Petitions following; [verse 11] that he will accompany her to visit the particular Churches, that his spirit and care may join together, to prosper hers, for the good of all the Churches. She will not now go any way, ot do anything without him and his company. She had lately felt the sorrow and smart of his absence from her, of her being without him, and his presence. She is minded now, as Bar • k was, Judge. IV. 8.
my loves ] The fruition of my graces, [verse 21] the fruits of my faith, hope, love, good works, thanksgivings, &c. She will detain nothing that is hers from the love and service of Christ, but resign all unto him, who is worthy alone to enjoy all.
The mandrakes ] See the Annotations on Gen. [verse 13] XXX. 14.
at our gates, &c. ] This may seem to allude to the order of strawing the wedding-house doors with sweet smelling flowers: or of laying up of fruits in gate-houses and garners.
for thee ] All for Christ. He gives all to them, all his offices and efficacies; all his merits and graces; what he did, and suffered, was for them: and they return all to him, all that they are, and have all that they do and suffer, all their good works and services, as fruits of his own Graces in them, they ascribe and devote unto him, Psal. CXV. 1. that he may be Ali in All.
In this last Chapter, the Church proceeds to her dearest wishes for and after Christ, How she fain would have him, and use him; in the three first verses. And in the next verse, she again chargeth others not to disturb or displease him.
as my brother ] That she might have more close conjunction and consociation with him, [chapter VIII] [verse 1] more entire familiarity and sweetness, more intimate union and communion with him.
kiss thee] Chap. I. 2. Psal. II. 12. and publicly profess thee, notwithstanding any danger.
yet they should not despise me ] 2 Sam. VI. 22. not dishearten me from duty and affection: but she would bravely sleight all scorning Michols, all contumelies and contempts for her conscience sake, and Christ's sake.
〈◊〉 mothers house ] The universal Church she calls her her mother; [verse 2] in her universal latitude of all her members; yea, sometimes comprehending in that notion Christ the head also, as, v. 5. And so again in the New Testament, the whole Church in all her members with her head Christ, is called Christ, i. e. mystical Christ, 1 Cor. XII. 12. Thither from without, would she bring him with solemnity and joy; and there humbly welcome and entertain his presence with all honor and obedience.
instruct me ] The Church would do it instrumentaly and subordinately, from God primarily and originaly, John VI. 45. Isaiah LIV. 13. Jer. XXXI. 34.
of spiced wine] Prov. IX. 2. This should be her hospitality and kindness to Christ: nothing too dear for him, as he doth the like for her, Isaiah LV. 1, 2, 3.
who is this, [verse 5] &c.] Chap. III. 6. Some would have this to be the speech of the Church; some, of Christ; some, of the Angels.
that cometh up ] Sure whosoever speaks it, this is meant of the Church; it is she comes up. There are continual ascensions in the hearts of God's people▪ whiles here; they are ever aspiring to heavenward.
from the wilderness ] Of this world and the tribulations of it, of sin, and the temptations and miseries of it.
Leaning ] For otherwise without him she could not ascend. No more then the Vine without its supporter; or the Ivy without its Oak. And leans truly; not as those, Micah III. 11. And leans wholly and solely upon him; utterly unbottomed of herself, and of every creature. All other are but as, Job VI. 17. and, VIII. 15. and, Isaiah XXXVI. 6.
I raised thee up, &c. ] Some understand these words as spoken by the Church, and in answer to Christ's question; That namely, I is she herself, and no other; even she that raised him up and awoke him from under the apple-tree, by her prayers; as, Psal. XLIV. 23. Matth. VIII. 25. Isaiah LXII. 7. And there by acts of faith, and believing on the promise, did after a sort conceive, bear, and bring him forth. And that it is she also that in the extreme height and heat of her love and zeal, so prays to him, and so professes, as is in the two verses following. Others under stand all these words as spoken by Christ to the Church, whose grace alone did, and doth raise up his Church, depressed and fallen under the tree of offense after the eating of the forbidden fruit, lying in her blood, as it is, Ezek. XVI. 5, 6. then and there he said unto her, and be the mother of the living, as, Gen. III. 20. And so they make the rest of the words to be his command to his Church, naturally following as her duty, from the consideration of his foresaid benefits to her vouchsafed. But yet, however the words in the fifth verse be taken, I do rather incline to understand the words in the six and seven verses to be the Churches; by reason of their masculine idiom. She so begging Christ's dearest love to her: and so professing her own love to him, as riding in a Chariot o triumph, victorious over all oppositions, unconquerable, unquenchable. And such indeed is the Divine mutual love between Christ and his Church, thus exalted to the highest.
Set me as a seal ] Have me in precious esteem: [verse 6] bear me on thy breast, and shoulders, as Aaron did the Tribes, Exod. XXVIII. 11, 12, 20, 21, 29, 30. Thus she begs to be highly remembered, preserved honored, by Christ; in his heart dearly cherished and valued; by his arm mightily defended.
strong as death ] Death conquers all; is the King of terrors, Job XVIII. 14. yet Love as strong as death: Jonathan would have died for the love of David; and David for Absalom. See Rom. XVI. 4. Apoc. XII. 11. She would not refuse to die for him: but shall die, if he grant not her desire. Wherein the irresistible and undaunted vigor and courage of holy love and desire after Christ, is exalted to the highest.
as the grave ] Which is never satisfied and filled, Prov. XXX. 16.
coals of fire] Luke XII. 49. This was her fever and sickness, in this Song. She was carried up, as it were, in a Chariot of fire; and consumed, as it were, in her love towards Christ in the zeal of it, Psalm LIX. 9. and CXIX. 139. See 2 Cor. V. 13. Not lukewarm she.
Many waters, [verse 7] &c. ] As no good can match it, so no evil can overmatch it. Nay, the floods of afflictions are so far from drowning this Love, that they do rather inflame and increase it; as the water that is cast upon lime, Rom. VIII. 35.
all the substance of his house ] To buy this love of me, or to get it from me; or to bribe and corrupt it. Yea, his house itself, lands, life and all.
utterly oontemned ] As, Acts VIII. 20. Phil. III. 8. Matth. X. 37. Luke XIV. 26. IX. 24.
we have a little sister ] Thou Lord and I have such a one; [verse 8] meaning the Church of the Gentiles; so thy holy Prophets have foretold me. So as this continues to be the speech of the Church; or of them both.
no breast ] Not marriagable yet immature yet. As once the Church of the Jews also was, Ezek. XVI. 7, 8.
What shall we do ] Love is laborious, Shechem will do all that can be done for his beloved Dinah. So Paul for the Jews, Rom. IX. 1, 2, 3. True Love is not in word only, but in deed, John XIV. 15.
when she shall be spoken for ] For her good, and advancement; for to have an husband, Gal. IV. 4. Rom. XVI. 25.
If she be a wall ] The answer to the foresaid question: [verse 9] Parabolical, very obscure, and difficult: Yet seems plain in this, that Christ▪ and the Jewish Church are contriving here and mentioning some good, which they purpose to do to their sister, the Church of the Gentiles: That in nothing they will be wanting unto her; but in love provide and do all for her that they can in her respective conditions. If she be a wall, strong, and well-grounded; Or when she shall be so; we will do thus and thus for her. Or, they will make her a Wall first; and afterwards enlarge her; pulling down that partition-wall, which formerly was between Jew and Gentile; and then making a new wall, larger, and able to comprehend both Jew and Gentile.
We will build ] We both; yea the whole blessed Trinity, will have an hand in building the Church of the Gentiles.
a palace of silver ] A royal precious Palace; that she may beseem to be the City of the great King, Psal. XLVIII. 2.
and if she be a door Or, when she shall be a door: to open to the righteous Nation, &c. Isaiah XXVI. 2. to open to the faithful Ministers, 1 Cor. XVI. 9 that come to build her for an habitation of God through the Spirit, Eph. II. 22. to open to the King of glory, Psal. XXIV. 7. And thus become, as it were, the gate of heaven; as Gen. XXVIII. 17.
enclose her with boarde of Cedar. ] Board her, and beautify her with fair, sweet, and strong Cedars; Compass her with my everlasting mercies; and preserve her walls and her gates, that the gates of hell shall not prevail against her, Isaiah XXVI. 1. and LX. 18. Matth. XVI. 18.
I am a wall ] Saith this Church of the Gentiles; [verse 10] answering that in the former verse. Or, when I shall so be, as I desire to be?
and my breasts like towers ] Not, as once, without breasts, verse 8. but now, as, Ezek. XVI. 7. yea, beyond those of my elder sister, new like towers, far greater then those. See Isaiah XLIX. 21. and LIV. 1. and LX. 4, 8. and LXVI. 8.
then was I, &c. ] Or, then shall I be, &c. Here is the effect and issue of her being built up through Christ. For when God shall have united these two sticks, Ezek. XXXVII. 19. And made way for those Kings of the earth, Apoc. XVI. 12. then it shall be said of both, what hath God wrought? as, Num. XXIII. 23. then she shall be near her complete happiness, her heavenly and everlasting peace. And all this through the free favor, and mere mercy of God in Christ.
Solomon had a vineyard ] This, [verse 11] and the two next evrses, are the last speech of Christ to and of his Spouse, in this Song. Wherein he magnifies the price and praise, the precious fruitfulness and worth of his Church, by the comparison of a Vineyard, the best of Vineyard, even Solomon's in Baalhamon; a very fruitful place, a Lord of multitudes of wine; as the word signifieth. And yet is that far short of Christ's Vineyard.
he let out, &c.] Solomon set and let out his to keepers and farmers.
everyone ] Every Tenant and Keeper, for his share.
a thousand pieces of silver ] See Isaiah VII. 23 a thousand Vines for a thousand silverlings. Every keeper then likely had so much ground as would plant a thousand Vines. And wonderful then was the fruitfulness and increase that would raise the rent to so high a rate. Of silverlings and shekels, See the Observations on Exod. XXXVIII. 24.
My vineyard ] The Church often called a Vineyard, [verse 12] Isaiah V. 1,—7. Psal. LXXX. 8. Here is the other part of the comparison, the difference between Christ's Vineyard, and that of Solomon's. This superior to that.
which is mine ] He owns it: And it is his by a manifold right of donation, purchase, conquest, plantation, preservation, fructification, 1 Pet. I. 18. 1 Cor. III. 7.
is before me ] Ever in his sight, dear and tender in his eyes. He is always with his Church, Matth. XXVIII. 20. He walks among her candlesticks; having engraven her upon the palms of his hands, and her walls being continually before him, Isaiah XLIX. 16. and under his constant never-slumbering charge and protection, ch. XXVII. 3.
Thou, O Solomon] Solomon could not be ever with his Vineyard; nor dress it himself. But the Keepers and Tenants must have their share of the fruits of it to themselves, as good reason they should. But I look to my Vineyard myself, 1 Cor. III. 7, 9. Nor suffer I any part of the profits to go from me.
Thou that dwellest, [verse 13] &c. ] Thou Church here called the inhabitresse of the gardens, because she is divided and branched into many particular Congregations, which are no less delightful to him then so many Edens and Paradises.
the companions ] The Angels, say some, Eph. III. 10. 1 Cor. XI. 10. 1 Pet. I. 10. Or rather, Those Partakers of the same precious faith and grace with herself, 2 Pet. I. 1.
hearken to thy voice ] Thine obedient children will hearken to their mothers counsel, Ier. XIII. 15, 16. set to their seals, John III. 33. glorify the Word, Acts XIII. 48.
cause me to hear it] Chap. II. 14. In holy exercises, preaching, prayer, conference, &c. uttered by the Spirit of grace and supplication. Or, as some, cause them to hear me; by thy preaching of me, of my Word of truth, without mixture of hay or stubble, 1 Cor. III. 12.
Make haste ] See chap. II. [verse 14] 9, 17. They then waited for the consolation of Israel. Here is the Churches last speech and prayer; like that Apoc. XXII. 17, 20. She loves, and longs, and looks for his second Advent, 2 Pet. III. 12. As the espoused Virgin doth after the day of marriage.
like to a Roe ] In nimbleness and swiftness. Come with all speed, quickly, cut off of delays. Yet his coming seems long to us, because we are short; we set the Sun by our Dial.
upon the mountain of spices. ] Where Christ is, and whence the Church expects him; and whither she longs to be brought by him. Those high and heavenly, those sweet and precious pleasures, Ps. XVI. 11. are the issue and upshot of all, and the end of this spiritual heavenly Song.
THe Great, and Small Prophets, according to the Times wherein they lived, and prophesied, may seem to stand in this rank and Order; viz. Jonah, Isaiah, Hosea, Joel, Amos, Micah, Nahum, Habakkuk, Zephaniah, Jeremiah, Daniel, Ezekiel, Obadiah, Haggai, Zechariah, Malachi. In the LXX. the Lesser Prophets are placed before the Greater.
Isaiah.
E SAY Prophesies of the Destruction of the Kingdoms, of Syria, and Samaria, shortly to be accomplished by the Assyrian. And of the Kingdom of Judah afterwards, by the Babylonian. And of the Neighbouring Kingdoms round about, by them both. And of the Ruin of the Assyrian Empire, by the Babylonian. And of the Babylonian by the Mede, and Persian. Intermixing sharp accusations of sins; severe threatenings of judgments and comfortable Promises; chiefly to the Jews, and Israelites: And extending his Evangelical Prophecies, and Promises to Christ, and his glorious, spiritual Kingdom; And the Vocation of the Gentiles to the Communion of it. And all in a stately style, and lofty language. The time of his Prophesying must needs be 46. years from the first of Jotham to the 14th of Hezekiah, Besides the Times that the Prophesied in the days of Uzziah, and after the 14th. of Hezekiah; which for the number of years are uncertain. Yet it is recorded that he writ the Acts of Uzziah, first and last, 2 Chron. XXVI. 22. though that Book seem not extant now, as not so necessary for the use of the Church. As neither that of Iasher, 2 Sam. I. 18. Nor that of Jeremiah, 2 Chron. XXXV. 25.
The Times in Isaiah may seem to be thus distinguished; viz. In the days of King Uzziah, Chapter I.—5. whose reign is mentioned, chap. I. 1. and his Death, chap. VI. 1. Wherein some things most Prophetickly be spoken, and understood, both of sins, and Punishments, which otherwise are fitting rather to the times of Ahaz.
In the days of Jotham, chap. VI. In the days of Ahaz. Chap. VII.—XIV.
ver. 28. whose reign is mentioned, chap. VII. 1. And his Death, chap. XIV. 28. And the rest may seem most, if not all, to be in the days of Hezekiah; wherein there is a special notation of time in chap. XX. mentioning the year that Tartan (2 Kings XVIII. 17.) came to Ash • od (or Azotus ) and took it, when Sargon, next Predecessor to Sennacharib, or Sennacharib himself King of Assria sent him, which seems to be about the eighth or ninth year of Hezek. And in the XXXVI. & XXXVII. chap. mentioning the 14th year of Hezekiah, and the Histories contained in it. And in chap. XXXVIII, XXXIX. containing Histories that fell out in the later end of that fourteenth year of Hezekiah; without any other or further Notation of Times, to the end of all the Book. In this Prophecy are chiefly contained manifold Evangelical Promises and Prophecies of Christ, of his Person, and Offices, his Gospel, and Kingdom; more Particularly, of his Incarnation, and Birth; His Breeding, Calling, Teachings, Sufferings, Life, Death, Rising again, Glory ensuing, Kingdoms Length and Extent; That Isaiah is well called an Evangelical Prophet, or Prophetical Evangelist: Concluding with the destruction of Babylon: and the Deliverance of God's People thence: the glorious restauration of the Church: and Numerous Vocation of the Gentiles. And by reason of the Premises it is, That this Book is so often cited in the New Testament. As in the Table ensuing may appear.
| Isaiah | Alledged, or Alluded to in |
| 1. 9. | Rom. 9. 29 |
| 6. 9, 10 | Mat. 13. v 14, 15 |
| Joh. 12. 39, 40, 41 | |
| Act. 28. 25, 26, 27 | |
| 7. 14 | Mat. 1. 22, 23 |
| 8. 14 | Rom. 9. 33 |
| 15 | 1 Pet. 2. 8 |
| Mat. 21. 44 | |
| 17 | Luke 20. 18 |
| 18 | Heb. 2. 13, 14 |
| 9. 2 | Mat. 4. 14, 15, 16 |
| 7 | Luke 1. 32, 33 |
| 10. 22, 23 | Rom. 9. 27, 28 |
| 11, 1 | Mat. 2. 23 |
| 10 | Rom. 15. 12 |
| 13. 10 | Mat. 24. 29. |
| 21. 9 | Apoc. 14. 8 |
| 22. 13 | 1 Cor. 15. 32. |
| 22 | Apoc. 3. 7 |
| 25. 8 | 1 Cor. 15. 54. |
| 28. 11 | Apoc. 11. 7, 17 |
| 1 Cor. 14. 21 | |
| 16 | 1 Pet. 2. 6, 7, 8 |
| Rom. 9. 33 | |
| 29. 10 | Rom. 11. 8 |
| 13 | Mat. 15. 7, 8, 9 |
| Mar. 7. 6 | |
| 14 | 1 Cor. 1. 19 |
| 33. 18 | 1. Cor. 1. 19, 20 |
| 34. 4 | Apoc. 6. 13, 14 |
| 35. 5, 6 | in many places |
| 40. 3 | Matth. 3. 3 |
| Mark 1. 3 | |
| John 1. 23 | |
| 3, 4, 5 | Luke. 3. 4, 5, 6 |
| 6, 7, 8 | 1 Pet. 1. 24, 25 |
| 13 | Rom. 11. 34 |
| 1 Cor. 2. 16 | |
| 41. 4 | Ap. 1. 17 & 22. 13 |
| 8 | James 2. 23 |
| 42. 1, 2, 3, 4 | Mat. 12. 17, 18 |
| 19, 20 | |
| 6 | Acts 13. 47 |
| 43. 19 | 2 Cor. 5. 17 |
| 44. 3 | John 7. 38, 39 |
| 45. 9 | Rom. 9. 20 |
| 23 | Rom. 4. 11 |
| Phil. 2. 10, 11 | |
| 47. 8 | Apoc. 18. 7 |
| 49. 6 | Luke 2. 32 |
| Acts 13. 47 | |
| 8 | 2 Cor. 6. 2. |
| 10 | Apoc. 7. 16 |
| 50. 6 | Luk. 22. 64 |
| John 18. 22 | |
| 8 | Rom. 8. 30, 34 |
| 52. 5 | Rom. 2. 24 |
| 7 | Rom. 10. 15 |
| 10 | Luke 3. 6 |
| 11 | 2 Cor. 6. 17 |
| 15 | Rom. 15. 21. |
| 53. 1 | John 12. 38 |
| Rom. 10. 16 | |
| 3 | Mark 9. 12 |
| 4 | Matth 8. 17 |
| 5 | 1 Cor. 15. 3 |
| 53. 5, 6 | 1 Pet. 2. 24, 25 |
| 7, 8 | Mark 15. 3, &c. |
| Acts 8. 32 | |
| 9 | 1 Pet 2. 22 |
| 12 | Mark 15. 28 |
| Lu. 22, 37 & 23, 34 | |
| 54. 1 | Gal. 4. 27 |
| 13 | John 6. 45 |
| 55. 1 | John 7. 37 |
| 3 | Acts 13. 34 |
| Psal. 89. 35 | |
| 56. 7 | Matth. 21. 13 |
| Mark 11. 17 | |
| Luk 19. 46 | |
| 59. 7 | Rom. 3, 15 |
| 17 | Eph. 6. 17 |
| 1 Thes. 5. 8 | |
| 20 | Rom. 11. 26 |
| 60 3 | Apoc. 21. 24. |
| 11 | Apoc. 21. 25 |
| 19 | Ap. 21. 23. & 22. 5 |
| 61 1, 2 | Lnk 4. 17—21 |
| 62. 11 | Matth. 21. 5 |
| 63 2, 3 | Apoc. 19. 13, 15 |
| 64 4 | 1 Cor. 2. 9. 11 |
| 65. 1, 2 | Rom, 10. 20, 21 |
| 17 | 2 Pet. 3. 13. |
| 66 1 | Acts 7. 48, 49 |
| 21 | 1 Pet. 2. 5, 9 |
| Apoc 1. 6. | |
| 24 | Mark 9. 44 |
Chap. VII. ver. 16. hath reference to Shear-jashub.
Chap. VIII. ver. 18. hath reference to Shear-jashub, and Mahershalah-hash-baz.
Chap. XXXVIII. ver. 5. Hezekiah 's tears, among other causes, might chiefly be, because at that time he had no son; Manasseh being borne after, chap. XXXVIII. 5. 2 Kings XXI. 1. 2 Chron. XXXIII. 1.
As the Sun stood still at Joshua 's Prayer; and the Moon likewise; and consequently with them the whole frame of the Heavenly Bodies, and their Motions, about a whole day, Josh. X. 12, 13. So upon Hezekiah 's choice, the Sun went back, and consequently the other Celestial Bodies with it, ten degrees, in the Heavens, [that the Chaldeans took notice of the wonder, 2 Chron. XXXII. 31.] as well as in the Sundial of Ahaz, chap. XXXVIII. 8. Making that miraculous anomalie of time, in obedience to their Creators will.
Isaiah his going naked, without his upper raiment, or Prophetical rough garment, (as that, 2 Kings I. 8. Zech. XIII. 4. Matth. III. 4.) and bare-foot; though but three days; (like to that, Ezek. IV. 4, 5, 6.) yet was a three years Prophetick sign, that Egypt and Ethiopia, by that time, should be led into captivity, naked and bare, by the King of Assyria, chap. XX. 3, 4.
The 185000. were slain by the Angel, in the Camp of Sennacharib, not after their return from the Ethiopians, but in that very next night after the message and promise sent from God by Isaiah to Hezekiah, Isaiah XXXVII. 21,—35. And slain either before Jerusalem in the Camp that Rabshakeh brought thither, and in his return to the King at Libna left there, Isaiah XXXVI. 2. Or in Sennacharib 's Camp before Libna, where himself was, so drawing near to Jerusalem, chapter XXXVII. 8, 9. 14 33, 36. 2 Kings XIX. 8, 32, 35, 36. 2 Chron. XXXII. 9. If not in both Camps.
The Vision ] [chapter I] [verse 1] One of those means whereby God in those times imparted his mind and word to his Prophets.
Of Isaiah ] Heb. Jeshajahu. In other places, Jeshajah. In the Greek, Isaiah; whence our English, Isaiah, and Isaiah. It signifies God's salvation.
saw ] Hence the Prophets of old called Seers.
Judah and Jerusalem ] Chiefly and mainly. Though likely in a relation to them, he prophesied also concerning and against other neighbouring Nations.
Hezekiah ] Heb. Jechizkijahu, Micah I. 1. Jechizkijah; sometimes Chizkijahu; and Chezkijah. Greek, Hezekiah. Likely Isaiah died in the latter end of his reign; and was not sawn in sunder in the reign of Manasseh; as commonly, out of Heb. XI. 37. but groundlessely, it is conceived.
Hear, [verse 2] &c. ] His first Sermon, in this first chapter. And if so, Then we must understand the desolations herein mentioned to be Propheticaly denounced: for they seem to have relation to Ahaz his time.
O heavens, ] See Deut. XXXII. 1. and XXX. 19. and IV. 26. See Micah VI. 1, 2.
Israel ] The common name of God's people; [verse 3] yet meaning hereby Judah and Jerusalem.
your country, &c. ] Spoken Propheticaly, as was said, if this were his first Sermon and Prophecy. See chap. IX. 12. 2 Chron. XXVIII. 5, 17, 18.
Hear, [verse 10] &c. ] Thus wicked they were, likely in King Uzziah 's time.
upon thee ] Or rather, [verse 25] unto thee as the work-man turns his hand to the work. I will once more set upon the reforming and new moulding of thee. So mitigating that direful doom in the former verse.
as at the first ] Fulfilled in the times of Hezekiah, [verse 26] and Josiah: and after the return from the Babylonish captivity, in Zerubbabel, Joshua, Nehemiah, and others.
oaks ] Trees set apart and used for idolatrous services. [verse 29]
gardens ] Where they practiced Idolatry, as well as in Groves, and Woods.
strong ] Strong Idols, as ye esteem them.
The word, [verse 31] &c. ] A second Sermon, to the end of the IV. chap.
in the last days] Micah IV. [chapter II] [verse 1] 1, 2, 3. the days of the Messias, and of the Gospel. [verse 2]
all Nations ] The Gentiles.
He will teach us, [verse 3] &c. ] The Messias will. And so, ver. 4.
Nation shall not, [verse 4] &c. ] Such shall be the peaceable meek disposition among themselves which the Gospel shall bring them to, Acts IV. 32. Though the wicked will rise up in war, with fire and sword against them, Mat. X. 21, 22. Luke XII. 49, 53.
O house of Jacob, [verse 5] let us ] Provokes the Jews so to do, by the example of those Gentiles.
Therefore thou hast forsaken, [verse 6] &c. ] A sad charge against the present people, for their grievous manifold sins; whereby God is brought to desert them, and proceed in fierce wrath against them.
boweth down ] To their Idols in their Idol-worship. [verse 9] And therefore God will bow them down, and humble them, by his judgments, ver. 11.
forgive them not ] Spoken by way of imprecation, if not rather as a mere prediction or denunciation; that God would now at length, without further delay, proceed most severely to punish them, without sparing.
Enter into, [verse 10] &c. ] So foretelling what sorry shifts they should be then driven to; though to small or no purpose, verse 19. and 21.
Cedars of Lebanon ] Not any, [verse 13] not all their strongest hopes, and helps shall any whit avail them, against the wrath of the Lord; when he ariseth to shake terribly the earth; when he comes to make a terrible earthquake in the State, for their heinous and hideous sins.
to the moles ] His most precious Idols, [verse 20] in whom he trusted; seeing no help or hope in them, he shall cast them away with indignation and disdain, into the vilest and filthiest holes and corners, chap. I. 29.
Cease ye from man ] Seeing no human help, [verse 24] no might or height will avail against the Lord, therefore cease to put any confidence in frail man, Psal. CXLVI. 3, 4. Ier. XVII. 5, 6. Psal. LXXVI. 7.
For, [chapter III] [verse 1] behold, &c. ] God will take away the stay and the staff of man, and of other creature-comforts and supports, one and other.
children ] In age, [verse 4] or men of childish dispositions.
Oppressed ] Which follows of none, [verse 5] or of evil government.
I will not, [verse 7] &c. ] Men will refuse public employment, to undertake the care and cure of the State, and to be Rulers in it, being so full of confusion, so perplexed and perilous as theirs then should be.
is ruined ] And therefore for their extreme obstinacy and impudency; [verse 8] as the words following do declare.
Say ye ] A consolation to the small company of the Godly among them, [verse 10] in those calamitous times.
As for my people ] Proceeds on to declare the confusion and disorders of the times; [verse 12] that even boys and women, persons so qualified, abused them, and domineered over them.
The Lord ] He riseth up to plead and judge for his people, [verse 13] against those cruel oppressors.
Moreover, [verse 16] &c. ] Comes from the Men to the Women.
tinkling ornaments ] Divers names following in this wardrobe of Women, [verse 18] are of conjectural, rather then certain and sure signification, to us at this day.
glasses ] Looking-glasses; [verse 23] of bright brass, or steel, or like metal, Exod. XXXVIII. 8. Of glass properly so called we find no certain mention in the Old Testament.
girdle ] Girding. [verse 24] The word is used of those aprons or girdings, which of twigs twisted or wreathed, rather then leaves sowed together, our first parents made to cover their shame with.
a rent ] Or rags.
burning ] Sun-burning, tanning.
gates ] Cities, [verse 26] Lam. I. 4.
She ] The Land of Jury, or the mother-City Jerusalem.
seven women] Chap. [chapter IV] [verse 2] III. 25. Such should be the paucity of men surviving, as chap. XIII. 2. that is uncouth, immodest motion and solicitation should fall out, and find place with them.
In that day ] After these calamities overpast; when the Lord shall have washed, &c. as it is, ver. 4.
the branch ] The Messias, chap. XI. 1. Zech. III. 8. and VI. 12. Jer. XXIII. 5. and XXXIII. 15. Yet some understand this here of the Church. And so to the end of this short Chapter.
of the Lord ] The Messiah himself; And likewise the Church, and her beauty, and holiness, and defense, and shade, and shelter, come and spring all from the Lord.
and the fruit of the land ] Literaly. And may be applied spiritually.
that remaineth ] The remnant that shall escape, [verse 3] be left, and survive
Altar ] The brazen Altar in the Court before the door.
the voice of the Lord ] Not of the Seraphs.
I send ] The Unity of the Deity.
for us ] The Trinity of the Persons.
send me ] Being so fitted, as formerly, he now promptly offers himself.
make the heart of this people fat ] This God doth not by infusing any wickedness or corruption, of any kind, into them: but indirectly, and by accident, and consequent, thus; By not hindering it, but permitting it; justly, for their sins, withholding, or withdrawing his Restraining Grace, which holds them in as a Grayhound is held in from an hare by a slip; Denying his blessing to the means of Grace, not vouchsafing his special and free grace and assistance to them; but withdrawing the efficacy of his Spirit, which things he is not bound to give to any: and justly leaving them so both to all Satan's temptations, and his instruments; And also to their own vile lusts, the inbred hardness of their hearts, rebellion of their wills, and the universal corruption of their natures; which enslaves them to sin, and fires them after it; yea, the more for any opposition of God's Commands, Word, or Works, or any means else used to the contrary; as we see Lime burn with water cast upon it. Even so the Heathen could say, Nitimur in vetitum, semper cupimúsque negata: according with that of the Apostle, Rom. VII. verse 8,—13. Yea, God justly suffering and presenting such objects, and occasioning such things to fall out, as are not simply evil in themselves, yet through their default will prove stumbling-blocks unto them, as whereupon their own wicked hearts will still work and improve their own induration, excecation, and irritation to further sinning. Thus they willingly fall further into sinful actions. The power of doing which acts, as they are acts, are yet from God alone, in whom we live, and move, and have our being; but the obliquity, malignity, and evil of them is from the wicked Agent. And all this God doth in a way of justice: It is a just thing with God, when men willfully winkand shut their eyes against the light; And when they harden their hearts, and stop their ears against him, his Word, and Will, and Works; It is just with him, in manner aforesaid, to let them have and enjoy what they so love and desire to have and enjoy. And so to punish sin with sin. For all the premises, see Deut. XXVIII. 28. and XXIX. 2, 4. Psal. LXIX. 23. and LXXVIII. 32. and LXXXI. 12. and CVI. 7. Isaiah XXVIII. 13. and XXIX. 10. and XLIV. 18. Jer. V. 31. Ezek. II. 5, 7. and III. 7. and XX. 25. Zech. VII. 11, 12. Matth. XIII. 14. John XII. 37. Acts XIV. 16. Rom. I. 21, 22, 26, 28. and II. 4, 5. and Chap. VII. ver. 8, 9, 11, 13, 23. and XI. 8. 10. 2 Cor. II. 15, 16. 2 Thes. II. 10, 11, 12. 2 Tim. III. 13. Heb. VI. 4, 6, 7. Apoc. XVI. 9, 11. All this I say is just for Him who knoweth how, and orders withal, out of the infiniteness of his wisdom and goodness, so as to make them serve his providence for the producing of good out of evil, the greetest good out of the greatest sin; as Acts IV. 28. See my Annotations on Ezek. III. 20.
Lord, [verse 11] how long? ] Shall this sad condition last?
utterly desolate ] Yet there is mention of a Reserve, v. 13.
far away ] Into Assyria, [verse 12] and Chaldea; yea, some extend this to the last destruction by Vespasian, and Hadrian, the Roman Emperors.
But yet in it shall be a tenth ] God will still in his dreadfulest judgments preserve a small remnant, [verse 13] to continue his Church. Thus he concludes with this comfort here: as he likewise concluded his first and second Sermon.
a Teil-tree ] Or a Line-tree, of goodly boughs and leaves.
and an oak ] So most do render the word.
whose substance is in them when they cast their leaves ] As in winter.
so the holy seed ] The seed of Saints. The application of the similitude. These God reserves, by them to propagate his Church, Rom. XI. 15.
And it came to pass ] [chapter VII] [verse 1] The fifth Sermon.
in the days of Ahaz ] In the third, or the beginning of the fourth year of his reign. For within the fourth of his reign was Pekah slain, 2 Kings XV. 30, 33. in the twentieth year of Jotham, reckoning so both the four years of Jotham in his father Uzziahs life-time, and the sixteen years of his reign after the death of his father. Or rather, reckoning from the beginning of Jotham’s sixteen. And so this will fall out in the fourth of Ahaz. See my Observations on 2 King. I. pag. 103. Of the death of Ahaz, See chap. XIV. 28.
that Rezin] Rezin and Pekah severaly by themselves, had made some attempt against Judah, in the end of Jotham's, or the very beginning of the reign of Ahaz, and then mightily prevailed, 2 Kings XV. 37. 2 Chron. XXVIII. 5, 8. But now jointly they bend their forces together, to make a full conquest: yet in this prevail not; And so 2 Kings XVI. 5. One Rezon was the first King of Syria, 1 Kings XI. 23.
Syria ] See the Observations on 2 Sam. VIII. 5.
as the trees ] Their hearts quaked and quivered, [verse 2] as an aspin leaf. And the rather, because of what they had formerly suffered from them severaly. Which put them instantly upon dispatching of messengers, for aide, unto the King of Assyria, which God sends here to dissuade them from, 2 Kings XVI. 7, 8.
Shear-jashub ] Signifies the remnant shall return. [verse 3] This name given him in a prophetical way: as that of his other son, chap. VIII. 3. and those of Hoshea, chap. I. 4, 6, 9. Here brought with Isaiah, because he was to make use of him in his message to Ahaz, v. 16.
upper pool ] The very place where Rabshakeh afterwards stood, ch. XXXVI. 2. 2 Kings X. 17. See the Observations on Neh. III. 1. And the Annotations on this text of Isaiah.
fullers field] See the Observations on Neh. III. 1.
the son of Tabeel ] Uncertaine who. [verse 6] But whoever, a King to hold from and under them.
the forementioned calamities. These a Type of the Elect, Phil. IV. 3. Apoc. III. 5. and XVII. 8.
and by the spirit of burning ] By the fire of God's zeal, [verse 4] chap. IX. 7. rhe fire of his Spirit.
And the Lord will, [verse 5] &c. ] A promise of God's gracious presence among his people, for their direction, and protection, after they are so washed and purged.
her assemblies ] for the solemn services of God, Psal. XLVI. 5. Zech. II. 5.
a cloud ] As the Pillar was to the Israelites, Exed. XIII. 21. a cloud by day, and a fire by night. Even the same Pillar, Exod. XIV. 19, 20, 24.
all the glory ] All God's people. Or rather all that glorious estate, that God would advance his people unto, as aforesaid, should continue firm and steadfast unto them, under his protection over-spreading every part of it, and preserving it from all annoiance in any kind.
Now will I sing, [chapter V] [verse 1] &c.] His third Sermon.
what could have been done more, &c?] Matth. [verse 4] XXIII. 37. and ch. XI. 21. more, in regard of Ordinances and means offered and used: more, as a Vine-dresser, more in this kind and way, by my Ministers and Laborers, and Husbandmen; more, to leave them inexcusable. God's absolute power, and will, are not here questioned. See Matth. III. [verse 10] 9. and ch. XI. 25, 26. 1 Cor. III. 6, 7. Rom. IX. 16.
one bath] See the Observations on Gen. XVIII. 6.
an Homer] See the Observations on Exod. XVI. 36.
the work of the Lord ] The judgments, [verse 12] either impendent, or incumbent; And the Lord's hand in them.
are gone into captivity ] Or, [verse 13] are going. It is as sure so to be, as if it were done already. So Jer. IX. 1. and John III. 18.
Hell ] The grave: or any kind of receptscle of man's dead body, [verse 14] Gen. XXXVII. 35. Jonah II. 1, 2.
Mean man ] See the Annotations on Ch. [verse 15] II. 9. Adam, of base earth.
mighty man] Ish.
in judgment ] In his righteous judgments upon them. [verse 16]
Then ] After the judgments threatened, [verse 17] are accordingly executed.
shall the Lambs ] Literaly. Or rather the godly poor ones.
after their manner ] Freely and quietly, as they had wont to do, before their disturbance and expulsions by their great oppressors. And this, either in the time of the captivity, when they were left in the land, and the great ones carried away; or upon their return, quietly enjoying their own lands and means again, whence by the injurious dealings of the mightier sort they had formerly been ejected.
strangers eat] As Chap. I. 7.
Woe ] More wild grapes, [verse 18] and vile fruits that God's Vineyard brought forth: And woes with them.
draw iniquity ] Toile and tire themselves with all their might to draw on iniquity, to practice it.
Let him make speed ] That scoff at his threatenings, [verse 19] jest at his judgments.
Therefore as the fire ] God's judgments at the heels of sin. [verse 24]
their carcases ] 2 Chron. [verse 25] XXVIII. 6. 120000 in one day.
And he will lift up, [verse 26] &c. ] More, and greater judgments, should follow after those; still more.
to the Nations ] The Assyrians, in the time of Hezekiah. Some stretch it to the Chaldeans, in the time of Nebuchadnezzar.
slumber or sleep ] Be drowsy and slothful; [verse 27] but vigilant and diligent.
girdle ] They shall not lay their arms aside, but be always ready for journey, and march, and action.
nor the latchets ] Nothing should befall them that might retard them in their march, or hinder their expedition.
roar like young lions ] See the Annotations on Job IV. [verse 29] 10. By sundry similes, and hyperbolees he sets forth the fierceness of the enemies, and their armies.
and if one look ] The forlorn and perplexed condition of the Jews, [verse 30] by the irruption of so fierce and powerful an enemy; that cast they their eye which way soever they could, downward, or upward, yet no hope of help or comfort should appear. So again, chap. VIII. 21, 22. in the closing up of this hideous prediction.
year that Uzziah died ] And the beginning of Jotham’s reign. [chapter VI] [verse 1] Jotham had ruled some years in the life-time of Uzziah. See the Annotations on Hos. I. 1. And the Observations on 2 Kings I. But this here is after Uzziah's death.
This is the fourth Vision or Sermon of Isaiah.
I saw the Lord ] One God in Trinity of persons: as the Plural term, ver. 8. go for us? seems to imply. Isaiah saw him, not in his Essence, but in this visible module of glory here represented.
train ] Of his robes.
filled the Temple ] The Throne then, it seems, was in that high Portal of 120 Cubits high; and the train of his robes filled the Temple or the Sanctum.
fly] Verse 6. [verse 2] Dan. IX. 21.
one cried to another ] As by course singing out the praises of the Lord. [verse 3]
holy ] Thrice, to denote the superlative eminency of the Lord's holiness: and likely the holiness of his justice.
And the posts, [verse 4] &c. ] The Temple doors and posts shaken; and the body of the Temple filled with smoke. Signs of God's anger and indignation, Psal. XVIII. 8.
at the voice of him that cried ] A loud and dreadful voice. See Amos IX. 1.
woe is me ] As Hab. [verse 5] III. 16. See the cause here; and, v. 7.
within sixty five years ] From the fourth of Ahaz, [verse 8] to the four and twentieth of Manasseh, wherein he was carried to Babylon, by Esarhaddon, 2 Chron. XXXIII. 11. who withal swept away the remainder of those that Shalmaneser had left, Ezra IV. 2. are 65. years.
and the head of Samaria is Remaliah's son] Pekah. [verse 9] And he was slain by Hoshea. And Rezin by Shalmaneser; both almost presently after; 2 Kings XV. 30. and chap. XVI. 9. See my observations on 2 Kings I.
Ask thee a sign ] Seeing thou still remainest staggering and doubtful, [verse 11] for all this. A great grace offered to a graceless man.
I will not ask ] Not as loath to tempt God; [verse 12] though he pretend that. But because he believed nothing of that the Prophet spake, and was resolved to go on another way, contrary to the Prophets mind; to seek help of the Assyrian, and not to rely on God and his help.
O house of David ] Speaking as to him, [verse 13] so to his train and attendants; alike herein faulty as he was.
weary my God ] In distrusting him, and me his messenger?
Therefore ] Or, [verse 14] Nevertheless. Though you are unworthy of it by your refusal.
a sign ] Such as never any was before it, or since.
a Virgin ] This fell out in many ages after. And so things to ensue afterwards, are sometimes given for signs: as chap. XXXVII. 30. Exod. III. 12. Jer. XLIII. 9, 10. and LI. 63. By this sign God shows that he can do a greater thing, then he promised to Ahaz, to save him by his help against those two Kings. And this sign indeed is the foundation of all God's promises, and of the fulfilling of them; In this Son all the promises of God being Yea and Amen. This here is applied to the Blessed Virgin Mary, Matth. I. 18, 23. Luke I. 27, 35.
and bear a Son ] A Virgin still, in, and after the birth; which continues on the strangeness of this miraculous sign. Not yet but that otherwise he was borne in the ordinary manner, by the opening of the womb, Luke II. 22, 23.
Butter and honey ] Meats that young children affect. [verse 15]
shall he eat ] The Virgins Son.
that he may know ] That he may grow up, and attain to years of discretion, &c. Luke II. 52.
For before the child ] A child: [verse 16] or rather, pointing to Shear-jashub. For no other use appears of his being there with his father, but this alone. See chap. VIII. 4.
The Lord shall bring ] The Prophet now proceeds to foretell him, [verse 17] a far worse evil then that he now feared, that should befall him and his, from the Assyrians themselves, whom he now so much rested upon.
King of Assyria ] King or Kings collectively.
fly ] Egyptians; [verse 18] or others neighbouring to them, 2 King? XXII. 33, 35.
holes of the rocks ] As Bees do. [verse 19] Whence is that of honey out of the rock, Psalm LXXXI. 16. Deut. XXXII. 13.
that is hired] Ezek. XXIX. 18, [verse 20] 19. Or rather, 2 Kings XVI. 7, 8. So that Ahaz in issue, did but hire a razor to shave himself, and his estate.
the river] Euphrates.
And it shall, &c.] [verse 21] The condition of those that shoule be left in the Land, after this shaving.
a young cow and two sheep ] That had numbers of them, before the plundering.
abundance of milk ] Through the depopulation, [verse 22] and great paucity of inhabitants; and large pasturage occasioned thereby.
where there were a thosand vines, &c. ] [verse 23] The richest and fruitfulest places, for want of husbanding and manuring, should be overgrown with useless and harmful trash, ver. 24.
with arrows] To defend themselves against wild beasts, [verse 24] and other harmful creatures as might lurk there.
And on all hills ] Such places on the hills, [verse 25] which the rich had by undue enclosures, fenced in for pleasure or profit, that such fences being now cast down, they should lie open to cattle, great and small, to grase upon, and trample down at pleasure.
Moreover, [chapter VIII] [verse 1] &c. ] The sixth Sermon, in this, and the four Chapters following. And that of the same nature, and subject matter for the most part, with that in the last chapter aforegoing. But as that was to Ahaz; so this to the People.
and write in it ] Some think, only the name Maher-shalal-hash-baz. Others rather, this whole Sermon or Prophecy contained in these five Chapters.
Maher-shalal hash-baz ] As in relation to the King of Assyria, make speed to the spoil, haste to the prey; intimating what he should speedily do to Israel and Syria.
Witnesses to record ] The name given to the child, [verse 2] and the reason of it.
Uriah the Priest ] The High Priest. Of whom, 2 Kings XVI.
went unto ] Or, [verse 3] had gone in to. And so in the words following.
bare a Son ] Or had borne a Son: was newly delivered of a male-child.
this people] Of Israel and [verse 6] Samaria.
of Shiloah ] The soft rivolet of Jerusalem.
over all his channels ] Or rather, with all his channels; or from all his channels, and his banks; meaning his own; That the King of Ashur should come with all the forces he could make.
thtough Judah ] Having subdued Israel, [verse 8] should make his way thereby to pass through Judah also.
even to the neck ] To Jerusalem; that all Judah should be in danger to be drowned, by the inundation of this river, the Assyrian and his forces.
Associate yourselves ] Speaking to the enemies, [verse 9] the Israelites, Syrians, Assyrians, & all their people & armies; & that in way of derision.
and ye shall be broken ] All shall turn to your ruin.
for God is with us ] Even that Immanuel, ver. 8. [verse 10] and, ch. VII. 14.
spake thus to me ] To comfort, and confirm the godly in Judah, against their distrusts and fears, in these calamitous times.
a confederacy ] Be against that confederacy with the Assyrian. [verse 11]
Bind up the Testimony ] God would not have the Prophet to deal further in this kind, [verse 16] with these faithless and profane people; but reserve such sacred mysteries to be imparted to the faithful, his disciples.
And I will wait ] The Prophets resolution, [verse 17] what he would do.
Behold, [verse 18] I, and the children ] My self, and my children, chap. XX. 2, 3. and, chap. VII. 16. and, ver. 3, 4. of this chapter. Indeed, Heb. II. 13. These words are produced, as spoken, either of, or by Christ: As likewise those words, 2 Sam. VII. 14. are applied to Christ, Heh. I. 5. And the like is again in that same text, Heb. II. 13. The truth is, Many speeches of the Prophets, concerning themselves; and many Prophecies concerning Cyrus, and others▪ who were types of Christ, are in the New Testament applied unto Christ; being one way, and in one manner verified of them; and another way, and in another manner also, many times fulfilled in him.
seek unto them that have familiar spirits ] People in times of straits are prone this way, [verse 19] 1 Sam. XXVIII. 7, 15. 2 Kings I. 2. And so likely at this time. The Prophet therefore here arms the faithful against this course.
And they shall pass ] The evil that shall betide such men: [verse 21] In their distresses they shall flit and fling to and fro; but meeting with no means of succor or relief, either from above, or below, they shall be at their wits end.
and curse their King ] Who brought them to that miserable distress, and should rather have saved and preserved them.
And their God ] Even God himself, in their murmuring desperation. Or rather, their Idol-god.
unto the earth ] Downward: or abroad into the Land, as, [verse 22] ch. V. 30.
Nevertheless ] This Chapter hath dependence upon the Chapter aforegoing, [chapter IX] [verse 1] and is a continuation of that discourse. Here the beginning imports some allay of the calamitous condition there mentioned.
he lightly afflicted] By Pul, rather then Tiglath-Pileser, 2 Kings XV. 19, 20.
more grievously ] By Shalmaneser, 2 Kings XVII. 3, 6. Or, by Tiglath-Pileser rather, 2 Kings XV. 29.
by the way of the sea ] Of Cinnereth, Josh. XIII. 27. called also the sea of Galilee, the sea of Tiberias, the lake of Genesareth.
beyond Jordan ] Or beside Jordan, on the West-side of it. The word signifies either side.
in Galilee of the Gentiles ] The upper Galilee, in the Tribe of Naphthali; much replenished with the Gentiles, being near the Confines of Tyre and Sidon, and having the Cities in it, made over by Solomon to Hiram, though he refused them. And our Savior preached much in this Galilee also, Matth. IV. 2, 13, 18, 24. The Evangelist cites this text, Matth. IV. 15, 16. and picks out only so much, as did concern his present purpose, and applies it thereunto.
The people ] In those places, on which the darkness of affliction had first seized in those times, There the spiritual light of joy and life, had, by our Savior's preaching, first sprung forth: He includes here the lower Galilee, in the tribe of Zebulun.
hath seen ] He speaketh in prophetical manner, of things to come, as already effected.
Thou ] Speaking to God. [verse 3]
hast multiplied ] Wilt multiply. The Prophet runs all along here in a prophetical strain.
the Nation ] The Jewish Nation; in the days of the Messias, by the confluence of the Gentiles, of all Nations.
and not increased the joy ] Read this interrogatively: and so it makes a strong affirmative. Or thus, Thou hast increased the joy to him, or it; that is, to the Nation.
They joy before thee ] And the greatness of their joy, is amplified by two similitudes.
For thou hast broken ] One reason of their joy. [verse 4]
Midian] Chap. X. 26. Judges VII.
For every battle, &c. ] Or, [verse 5] to be rendered thus; When the whole battle of those that were in battle, was with clashing of arms, and raiment rolled in gore blood; which by burning became food for the fire. Thus it was in the Midianites Camp.
a child is borne ] Who it is, [verse 6] and what manner of person, by whom all that hath been said, shall be effected. Emmanuel, the Vigins Son.
Unto us ] And for us.
The Lord sent a word ] After these comfortable Promises interlaced, [verse 8] for the stay of the faithful, the Prophet here returns again, torelate th calamities that should, for their excess of sin, and obstinacy therein, befall the people of Israel, and the Syrian King their confederate.
hath lighted ] Shall light.
adversaries of Rezin] The Assyrians. [verse 11]
against him ] Against Rezin.
his enemies] Israel's enemies. Under the Assyrian afterwards. Or, rather, these enemies are the Assyrians and Philistines, ver. 12.
Thy Syrians ] The Syrians, [verse 12] being now subdued by the Assyrian, shall now as his subjects, come under his conduct and command.
cut off ] By Shalmanazer.
and rush ] 2 Kings XVII. 6, 23, 24. [verse 14]
an hypocrite ] Or rather profane. [verse 17]
no man shall spare his brother ] But plunder and spoil one another, [verse 19] Jer. XIX. 9.
his own arm ] Prey, and devour the substance of those that are nearest unto them.
Manasseh Ephraim ] The Israelites one against another.
and they together ] Both of them against Judah.
Woe ] Here is a further charge, [chapter X] [verse 1] with a denunciation annexed to it against Israel. Though some would apply it to Judah.
What will ye do, [verse 3] &c?] As, Matth. XXIII. 33. Rom. II. 3. Job XXXI. 14, 23.
from far ] From the Assyrian.
without me, [verse 4] &c. ] What will ye do then? or to whom will ye flee for help? ye shall by no shift be able to escape, either to be taken prisoners, or be put to the sword.
O Assyrian, ] Here might best beseem this Chapter to begin. [verse 5] God purposing to use the Assyrian as the rod of his anger, against his people; doth here for the support and comfort of his faithful ones, insert a denunciation of destruction to befall him afterwards: and a gracious promise of deliverance of his people from him. O • the Assyrians, see the Observations on 1 Chron. V. 26.
Is not Calno, &c. ] Cities here mentioned, [verse 9] were near Euphrates.
As I have done unto Samaria ] The success of his predecessors, [verse 11] Tiglath-Pileser, and Shalman-Eser against Samaria, Sennacherib here takes to himself.
I will punish] Chap. [verse 12] XXXVII. 23, 29, 36, 37, 38.
eggs that are left ] The dam forsaking them for fear. [verse 14]
his fat ones leanness ] Among the chief and choice ones in his armies, [verse 16] upon his hosts, [verse 17] God will send a consumption.
And the light of Israel shall be for a fire ] A light to his people; a fire to his adversaries.
in one day] Chap. XXXVII. 36.
stay upon him that smote them] The Assyrian. [verse 20]
a remnant ] As but a remanant only of Sennacherib's army. [verse 22]
thy people Israel ] As God speaking to the Prophet; or rather thy people, O Israel, speaking so to Jacob of his posterity.
yet a remnant ] And but a remnant only. Alluding again to Shearjashubs name. See Rom. IX. 27, 29. and XI. 5. That remnant being a type of God's elect.
the consumption decreed ] The reason, why but a remnant.
Therefore ] Comforts the few faithful ones. [verse 24]
and as his rod was upon the sea, [verse 26] so shall he lift it up after the manner of Egypt ] As God destroyed the Egyptians then, so he will the Assyrians now. Allusion is here had to Moses his lifting up his rod over the red-sea.
because of the anointing ] Christ the anointed. [verse 27]
He is come ] The Prophet here describes the Progress of Sennacherib with his army, [verse 28] through Benjamin, whereunto most of the towns here mentioned did appertain, to and against Jerusalem; as if he plainly beheld it in a prophetical rapture and vision.
They are gone over the passage ] Not of Jordan, [verse 29] but the straits between the hills near Michmash, 1 Sam. XIII. 23. and XIV. 1, 4, 5.
Gallim ] 1 Sam. XXV. [verse 30] 44. 〈1 page duplicate〉 〈1 page duplicate〉
top the bough ] The chief and principal in Sennacherib's army. [verse 33]
and Lebanon shall fall ] The Assyrian King is called a Cedar of Lebanon, [verse 34] Ezek. XXXI. 3. And Carmel, though a mount of Israel, is in this very argument applied to him, and his forces, verse 18. These then may resemble other great States, Persons, and People, as well as those of the Jews. And therefore by the tenure of the context, Lebanon here is no other then the Assyrian vast host.
by a mighty one ] An Angel, chap. XXXVII. 36.
And there shall come ] Here, [chapter XI] [verse 1] as usually upon occasion of particular great deliverances, the Prophet riseth higher, and proceeds unto that spiritual deliverance of the Church by the Messias, at his coming: This temporal being a kind of type of that spiritual. And withal, it shows a reason why it was said, for the anointing, chap. X. 27. Here then in this Chapter we have Christ the Messias prophesied of, and described, by his descent, and mean appearance, and low condition, in our human nature; the mean estate his parents were then brought unto; his transcendent excellencies and endowments, by means whereof he should be enabled to effect and accomplish such strange and unheard of archievements as are herein mentioned; and particulatly, the Calling of the Gentiles.
second time ] As formerly out of Egypt, [verse 11]
to recover ] Into his possession again.
the remnant ] A small parcel. See chap. X. 22.
of his people ] The Jews; distinguished from those, ver. 10. See Apoc. VII. 4,—9.
from Assyria, &c. ] And other foreign places here mentioned, where they were scattered.
for the Nations ] Or, [verse 12] to the Nations; for them bring or send in, the Israelies that are in captivity with them, or sojourn among them. This typicaly and chiefly relates to the calling home of the elect of them to Christ, wheresoever dispersed; some at one time, some at another, and also the main body of the residue, in his own appointed season, Acts II. 41. and IV. 4. and XXI. 20. Rom. XI. 5, 25, 26. 2 Cor. III. 16.
The envy also of Ephraim ] That had been between them, [verse 13] and Judah, since the rent of the Kingdoms by Jeroboam the Ephraimite, 1 Kings XII. was to cease, when united either to other in Christ, Ezek. XXXVII. 16. Jer. III. 18.
and the adversaries of Judah shall be cut off ] In the time of the Messias, the obstinate enemies of the Church of God, shall by Christ be destroyed, see chap. LX. 12.
But they shall fly, [verse 14] &c. ] They shall subdue these inveterate enemies; the enemies of the spiritual Kingdom of Christ hereby typified.
the tongue of the Egyptian sea ] [verse 15] The Prophet here promiseth from God a removal of all impediments that might hinder the Jews in this their return into their land. This their return, shadowing out the reducing of people to the obedience of Christ, and his spiritual Kingdom. By this tongue there is meant the red-sea, which is like a tongue.
the river] Nile.
in the seven streams ] By which, as by so many mouths, it emptieth itself into the Sea. To make way for the Jews return from her into their own land. The meaning is, that no impediment or obstacle should be so great, that might hinder those, who were to be brought home to Christ, and his Church, out of all quarters, but it should be removed.
an high way ] The same meaning for Assyria, [verse 16] as in the former verse, for Egypt.
in that day ] [chapter XII] [verse 1] Of thy return home.
thou shalt say ] And sing, these or the like Hymns of Praise; composed by the Prophet, as set forms; or as directories to them; or both. So 1 Chron. XVI. 7, 35, 36.
in that day ] A preface or passage into a new form, [verse 4] another ditty: and this in way of exhortation to others, to do the like.
Babylon ] Here begin Prophecies, [chapter XIII] [verse 1] purposely against foreign States.
And first against Babylon, that should be their principal enemy. The Inscription of this Sermon is here in the first words. Of Burden, See Jer. XXIII. 33, 36. Of Babylon, see my Observations on Dan. IV. 30. Of her Fall, see Jer. L. and LI. And this seems to be the seventh Sermon.
Lift ye up a banner ] To summon those that were to be employed against Babylon. [verse 2]
nobles ] The great Peers of Babylon.
my sanctified ones ] Set apart to this service, [verse 3] ver. 17. Jer. LI. 27, 28.
a far country] Media and Persia. [verse 5]
whole land] Of Chaldea.
Howle ye ] Babylonians.
their faces shall be as flames] Lam. IV. [verse 6] 8. and V. 10. Ezek. XX. [verse 8] 47. Yet this here seems to be for fear of evil yet to come. See therefore that, Jer. XXX. 5, 6. Joel II. 6. Nahum II. 10. Yet the Original word seems to incline, to the faces of Lybians, or tawny-moores.
the stars ] All shall be so full of horror and terror, [verse 10] that the heavenly bodies may seem to have lost their light; no glimpse of comfort shall appear.
Ophir ] See the Observations on 1 King. [verse 12] X. 11.
shake the heavens ] I will cause them to be in such confusion and distraction, [verse 13] as if heaven itself were falling upon their heads, and the earth moving or removing from under their feet.
And it shall be] Babylon.
turn to his own people] Babylon shall be forsaken by her hired forces, and confederates. [verse 14]
found ] Medes and Persians.
Medes ] [verse 15] Under the conduct of Cyrus and Darius. [verse 17]
overthrew Sodom ] [verse 19] This utter devastation of Babylon was not at once; but began at the conquest of it by Cyrus, and in the succeeding ages was consummated.
It shall never be inhabited] Jer. LI. 26, [verse 20. 22.] 29, 43.
and her time is near to come] Isaiah in vision seeth the judgments as if presently approaching: or, this may be taken as spoken to and for them that then should be living in the time of the captivity of the LXX. years.
For the Lord ] The reason of the hastening of the destruction of Babylon, [chapter XIV] [verse 1] which is God's mercy and compassion towards his people; the deliverance of whom depended upon Babylon's destruction.
strangers shall be joined ] See the like, ch. 5. XLIV. and LVI. 3. and LX. 3. Esther VIII. 17. Psal. XLVII. 8, 9. This partly accomplished at their return from Babylon; but more in the Kingdom of Christ, by the Ministry of the Gospel.
possess them ] These Proselytes and Converts. [verse 2]
take them captive, &c. ] Partly verified in the time of the Maccabees literaly: but most of all spiritually by the means and ministry of the Apostles, and Preachers, subduing them to the obedience of Christ's Scepter.
this Proverb ] Or by-word, [verse 4] or taunting speech. Here the Prophet continues the denunciation of the destruction of Babylon.
the King] i. e. the Kingdom.
O Lucifer ] Meaning the Babylonian. [verse 12]
the mount of the Congregation ] Mount Zion; [verse 13] or mount Moriah, being in the North-side of Jerusalem, 2 Chron. III. 1. Psal. XLVIII. 2.
that opened not the house of his prisoners ] But kept them LXX. [verse 17] years in captivity.
Prepare slaughter] Isaiah speaks to the Medes and Persians. [verse 21. 23. 25.]
for the bitterne] See chap. XIII. 21, 22.
that I will break the Assyrian in my land ] Rather as in breaking the Assyrian in my land. Sennacherib's overthrow, it seems, was before this. And it is brought in as an argument and example to prove, that as God had done that one, so he would as certainly do the other, that is, overthrow Babylon in its time.
In the year that King Ahaz died ] Here begins another Sermon, [verse 28] or Prophecy. And might well be the beginning of another Chapter. Chap. VI. did bear the date of the death of Uzziah. This, of the death of Ahaz.
Palestine ] Meaning here the Western part of Jury that was inhabited by the Philistines. [verse 29] Of the Philistines, see my Annotations on Zech. IX. 6. The Babylonians were the greatest enemies to the Jews, farthest off. The Philistines were their greatest enemies, nearest at hand.
because the rod, &c. ] This is meant of King Uzziah, who prevailed much in his wars against them, 2 Chron. XXVI. 6, 7. But in Ahaz his reign the state and strength of the Jews was much weakened: whereat the Philistines did much rejoice. But Isaiah biddeth them not to be overjoyed; for it should not last long.
a cockatrice] Hezekiah, 2 Kings XVIII. 8.
and his fruit shall be a fiery flying Serpent ] The Serpents fruit should be a cockatrice, yea▪ more then so, a fiery flying Serpent.
And the first-borne of the poor ] The extremely poor, [verse 30] as the Jews at that time were.
shall feed ] Freely, fully, and quietly without fear of the Philistines; when they should want, and famish.
and he shall slay thy remnant. ] A remnant still reserved of God's people, in his fearfulest judgments. But not a remnant le • t here by Hezekiah to the Philistines: or at least a slaughter was among that remnant. For Jeremy, Ezekiel, and Zephaniah, all after Ezekiahs days do again denounce judgments against them.
thou whole Palestine ] As thou whole Palestine didst rejoice before, [verse 31] verse 29. so thy dread and desolation shall be now as general and universal.
from the North] Judea, and Jerusalem, that stood North-East from the Philistines.
a smoke] Ezekiahs forces.
and none shall be alone in his appointed times ] Or, Assemblies, Hezekiah 's forces should come against them in flocks at his set times, and places for their randezvous. Or, none of the Philistines should care or endure to stay in their meeting places and strong holds, when Ezekiahs forces should as smoke break in upon them.
What shall one then answer? ] To any messengers in general, [verse 32] that upon any occasion shall come to Jerusalem.
of Moab ] Of Moab, [chapter XV] [verse 1] see the Annotations on Amos II. 1. See Jer. XLVIII, wherein are many passages found borrowed from hence.
because ] Relates the destruction and devastations of some of their chief Cities, and principal parts of their Country; together with the Moabites distraction, and vain devotions thereupon, flocking unto their Idols, who could do them no good.
is laid waste ] The usual manner of Prophetical language. And this was done at several times, by Shalmanezer, Sennacherib, and Nebuchadnezzar. Of which see more on chap. XVI. 14.
an heifer of three years old] Ier. XLVIII. 34. as an heifer of three years old, i. e. such shall the criers, or the cry be.
shall they carry away ] The enemies shall. [verse 5]
to the brook of the willows ] Some place in Moab; [verse 7] there to share it; and thence to carry it into Assyria.
Send ye the Lamb ] The tribute due.
to the Ruler of the Land ] The King of Judah; [chapter XVI] [verse 1] Hezekiah; of David's race. See 2 Sam. VIII. 2. Moab subdued by David. After the division of the Kingdoms, it fell to Israel. After the death of Ahab, it rebelled, 2 Kings I 1. and ch. III. ver. 4, 5. and so denied the tribute, whereupon I • horam, with the assistance of King Jehoshaphat, and the King of Edom, makes that war against Moab, 1 Kings III. 7, 9. Here the Prophet seems to admonish Moab what course she should take, and might have taken, for the prevention of the judgments here denounced against her; to wit, by paying their due tribute to the King of Judah; And by performing kind offices unto God's people, in the times specially of their distress, verse 3, 4. Wherein failing, they are again menaced with the judgments before mentioned, verse 7,—13. And a certain time set for the execution of the same, verse 14.
from Sela in the wilderness ] Or, as some, to the wilderness.
unto the account ] Where the King had his palace.
at the fords of Arnon ] Which bounded their Country on the one side, [verse 2] Num. XXI. 13.
consumed out of the land ] Of Judah. [verse 4] As indeed Sennacherib was. And therefore the performance of the kind offices oi the Moabites to the Jews should not last long, or be over-burdensome.
the throne] Of Judah. [verse 5]
and he shall sit] Hezekiah, the Type, Christ, the Truth.
and hastening justice ] Without needless delays.
his lies shall not be so ] All his haughty and wrathful thoughts, [verse 6] shall not take such effect, as in the pride of his heart he imagineth.
his Sanctuary ] The Temple of his chief idol Chemosh, [verse 12] 1 Kings XI. 7. Jer. XLVIII. 46.
since that time ] That this judgment past upon Moab, [verse 13] was first revealed to the Prophet; That which followeth, ver. 14. being added afterwards thereunto.
within three years ] Most likely thus; [verse 14] Conceiving this prophecy and denunciation to have been delivered about the fourteenth or fifteenth year of Hezekiah, then it took effect about the eighteenth or nineteenth year of his reign; and was put in execution by Ezarhaddon the Assyrian King. Though the utter and final destruction of Moab, here before denounced, and by Jeremy long after seconded, was to be executed by Nebuchadnezzar. That which was speedily effected, helping to confirm the truth of the former denunciation, though that were to take effect long after. Yet some conceive this to be done by Ezarhaddon in the tenth Of Hezekiah. Others, by Shalmanezer, in his way as he came to besiege Samaria.
Damascus ] of Damascus, [chapter XVII] [verse 1] Annotations on Amos I. 3, 4. The like burden against Damascus, see chap. XLIX. 23. Amos I. 2. Zech. IX. 1.
is taken away ] This was partly effected by Tiglath-pilezar, 2 King. XVI. 9. and after by Shalmaneser, and after by Nebuchadnezzar.
the glory of Jacob shall be made thin ] Of Israel the ten Tribes. [verse 4]
At that day, &c. ] [verse 7] The residue of God's people, refined and reformed by these forementioned calamities, shall then abandon their idols, and seek unto God.
Which they left for the children of Israel ] The enemy left. [verse 9] God so disposing things out of his gracious affection to his people.
plant ] Curiously. [verse 10]
but the harvest ] For all thy curious planting, and sowing, the harvest shall be an heap, ruined, spoiled, destroyed.
Woe to the multitude of many people ] Those forces that Sennacherib led against God's people. [verse 12] See chap. XXX. 28. and XXXVI. and XXXVII. that served under him.
and they shall flee far off ] So did Sennacherib, chap. [verse 13] XXXI. 9.
at evenintide trouble] In Jerusalem. [verse 14]
before morning he is not ] Most slain by the Angel, and the rest fled.
This is the portion ] A sweet Close.
A new Sermon or Prophecy. [chapter XVIII] [verse 1] But very obscure; and full of various interpretations.
Woe ] Some sense this, as if it were a Compellation Ho.
Shadowing with wings ] Meaning Egypt, say some: Ethiopia, say others.
beyond the rivers of Ethiopia ] The rivers and streams of Nile above in Ethiopia, South of Egypt; where Meroe a chief Island, say some. Others understand it of the rivers of Ethiopia, not above, but under Egypt. And they there do place Meroe, where they conceive the Queen Candace reigned.
That sendeth Ambassadors ] Some say, [verse 2] The Ethiopians send them, and namely Tirhakah. Others, the Egyptians send them.
by the Sea ] The Red-Sea.
Go ye swift ] The words of Tirhakah, say some. Of the Egyptians, say others.
a Nation scattered ] The Assyrians, say some; Tirhakah so provoking them to war and battle. The Ethiopians, say others; the Egyptians thus warning them of their ruin approaching by the Assyrians. And a third sort would understand by this scattered, peeled, terrible Nation, the Israelites.
a Nation meted out, and trodden down ] The Ethiopians were such, and so here to be entreated and used. But they that understand hereby the Assyrians; or the Israelites either, render the words a Nation meting out▪ and treading down; arrogating so much to themselves, and acting accordingly.
the rivers have spoiled ] The forces of the King of Assyria, say some, thus should spoil the land of the Ethiopians. The others understanding here the land of the Assyrians, conceive it here to be thus described by the rivers, and the abundance and violence of them, and their streams in it.
All ye inhabitants] Isaiah calls all the world to observe, [verse 3] how remarkable and conspicuous, God's judgments and the execution of them by the Assyrians, should be upon the Ethiopians, say some: God's judgments upon and against the Assyrians, say others. And accordingly they apply what is set down in the 4, 5, and 6. verses following; the one, for the Assyrian executing the judgment upon the Ethiopian: the other, for God executing his judgment upon the Assyrian; asserting to himself the defense and security of his own people.
In that time ] A prophecy of the Conversion of the Ethiopians to Christ, [verse 7] in the days of the Messias, Acts VIII. 27,—39. As most hold.
shall the present be brought ] By the Ethiopians, a present of their spiritual services. Others expound it, a present of the prey of Sennacherib's army, chap. XXXIII. 23. consecrated to God's service, and in way of Thanksgiving to him. Jer. LI. 44.
of Egypt Of Egypt see the Observations on Gen. [chapter XIX] [verse 1] XII. 10.
Of this burden of Egypt, see likewise Jer. XLIII. 10. and XLIV. 30. and XLVI. 2, 13. Ezek. XXIX. and XXX. and XXXI. 2, 18. and XXXII.
swift cloud ] Swiftness for expedition: cloud, in an extraordinary manner; for clouds are not ordinarily seen in Egypt, Psal. CIV. 3.
a cruel Lord, and a fierce King ] Which some understand of Sennacherib, [verse 4] some of Nebuchadnezzar; some rather of one of their own Kings; as namely, Psammetichus, who had been a petty King of one of the two Provinces, into which Egypt had been divided after the death of Sethon, who had been King of the whole Country before. But this Psammetichus at last overpowering the rest, made himself Lord of all Egypt, and was the father of Nechoh, who slew the good King Josiah, 2 Kings XXIII. 29. See Herodotus, lib. 2. Diodorus. lib. 1.
And the waters shall fail from the Sea ] This may imply the impeaching of their trade and traffick by Sea. [verse 5]
and the river shall be wasted] Nile; upon which the wealth and felicity of Egypt did depend. The miseries which should ensue upon the wasting and drying up of it, are set down in the five verses following.
of Zoan ] See Num. [verse 11] XIII. 22. Psal. LXXVIII. 12.
Land of Judah shall be a terror] Judah's overthrow shall fright Egypt; [verse 17] left the like befall them, and their own turn come next.
In that day five Cities ] A gracious prediction of the conversion of Egypt to God, [verse 18] and his service; which principally hath reference to the days of the Messias. So again, Jer. XLVI. 26. see the like comfortable closes, chap. VI. 13. and XVII. 7. and XVIII. 7. and XXIII. 17, 18.
one shall be called the City of destruction ] Or, of Heres. Or, of the Sun. See the Observations on Josh. XIX. 38.
at the border thereof ] Alluding to that, [verse 19] Josh. XXII. 10, 24, 25, 27.
a Savior, and a Great one ] Principaly the Lord Jesus. [verse 20]
Egyptians shall serve with the Assyrians ] Both serve the Lord. [verse 23] And Israel be the third. All three, serve the Lord, ver. 24, 25.
In the year ] [chapter XX] The time when this Prophecy was delivered. [chapter I]
that Tartan ] One of the three that Sennacherib sent to Hezekiah, 2 Kings XVIII. 17.
came to Ashdod] Of Ashdod, see the Annotations on Amos III. 9.
When Sargon] Of him, see the Observations on 2 Kings XV. 19.
and took it ] Some say, in the twelfth year of Hezekiah: some in the fourteenth, some in the fourth. But most likely, about the eight, or ninth year of Hezekiah after Shalmanezers decease. And the Egyptians, and Ethiopians coming to the relief of Ashdod, were by the Assyrians defeated, and carried captives, in such scornful and despiteful manner; as is described, ver. 4.
the sackcloth ] Not here a mourning weed: [verse 2] but such an upper garment, made of course and hairy stuff, as the Prophets ordinarily were wont to wear, 2 King. I. 8. Zech. XIII. 4. Mat. III 4.
naked ] Not stark naked. But stripped of his Prophetical mantle. As, 1 Sam. XIX. 24. Joh. XXI. 7. Mic. I. 8. Act. XIX. 16. As captives are wont to be led.
three years ] And well might the siege of Ashdod continue three years, [verse 3] as well as that of Samaria; most likely the Prophet went so three days, so forty days, for forty years, Num. XIV. 33, 34. Ezek. IV. 4, 5, 6.
upon Egypt, and upon Ethiopia] Judgments denounced upon them before, severally; upon Ethiopia, Chap. XVIII. upon Egypt, Chap. XIX. Here now upon them jointly.
so shall ] The explication of the sign. [verse 4] It shall be so at the end of three years, from the beginning of the siege of Ashdod.
And they shall be afraid ] both the Ashdodites, [verse 5] and Jews, that relied so much upon their aid.
Isle ] See the Observations on, Gen. X. 6. [verse 6]
of the desert of the sea ] [chapter XXI] [verse 1] Another Sermon and prophecy against Babylon. And so there are many Sermons against the Assyrians; and also against the Egyptians; by this Prophet. Babylon and Chaldea is here called the desert of the sea; a desert, because a large desert, or wide Wilderness lay between Chaldea, and Media; or, itself should be made so, by the judgments ensuing. Or the word here used signifieth a Plain, and in a plain Babylon was built, Gen. XI. 2. And called a sea, because of the great river Euphrates, on the banks whereof Babylon was built; and because of the vast lakes made out of the river. And hence is Babylon said to sit upon many waters, Jer. LI. 13. and ver. 36. I will dry up the sea.
As whirlwindes ] such shall the violent irruptions be of the Medes and Persians breaking into Chaldea.
The treacherous dealer ] hath now his match; [verse 2] is now paid in his own coin. Or, the treacherous dealer, dealing treacherously, which some apply to the Chaldeans, some to the Medes and Persians.
and the spoyler spoileth ] Some apply only these words to the Medes and Persians.
O Elam ] The Persian.
all the sighing ] Wherewith Babylon made my people sigh.
Therefore loins ] Spoken in the person of the Babylonians. [verse 3]
The night of my pleasure ] Even in their sestival night was Babylon taken by Cyrus, Dan. [verse 4] 5. 1, 30.
hath he turned ] Though it were done about 170. years after. This is an usual Prophetick phrase.
Prepare the table ] Most likely K. Belshazzar's words, [verse 5] for the Feast, and for the Watch.
arise ye Princes] Cyrus, and Darius.
set a watchman ] God's word to the Prophet. [verse 6] And that as if God willed him to stand as on a watch-tower, to see what he could descry. And for him to relate what himself in Vision had seen; as chap. VI. 1. For this seems to be done, in a Vision; as that 1 Kings XXII. 17, 19,—22.
• earkened diligently with much heed ] A through watch-master. [verse 7]
A Lion] Viz. leads them. Or rather, [verse 8] he cried loud, as a Lion; by his hideous noise expressing much fear and terror.
my Lord, I stand ] That watchman's words: professing his constant vigilancy.
here cometh ] Even now are gone into Babylon, [verse 9] speaking as a thing suddenly done: the issue of what he had hitherto so vigilantly expected.
Babylon is fallen ] God himself expounding more fully to the Prophet, what this apparition all tended to.
O my threshing ] My threshed ones, [verse 10] saith the Prophet; my afflicted ones; though not by me.
that which I have heard ] Foreseene, and foreshowed, is no dream or relation of my own devising; but what by revelation I have received from God. As, 1 Cor. XI. 23.
Dumah ] In Arabia say some. Edom say others. Another Prophecy; [verse 11] short, and sharp; obscure and difficult; wrapped up in two verses.
He calleth to me out of Seir] Seir so called from Seir the Horite, Gen. XXXVI. 20. in whose race it continued, until the Edomites, or posterity of Esau, thence expelled them, Deut. II. 12.
Watchman, what of the night? ] Either in a scoffing way. Or rather, implying a distracting and hazardous condition of those by whom they were uttered, unto whomsoever they were directed. What of the night? or, in the night. Or, concerning the night, hast thou seen, and observed? The night of black affliction that at the present lay heavy upon them, they seem to inquire of.
The watchman said ] As by Divine Oracle. [verse 12]
The morning cometh ] either a fair morning; as ye suppose, having shaken off that yoke wherewith Jacob's issue kept you under, Gen. XXVII. 40. Yet this fair morning should not last long. In issue, this morning should be such a morning, as shall afford you no light or comfort at all.
and also the night ] Cometh. A night of calamity and misery will by the Assyrians ere long seize upon you; worse then the Israelitish yoke. And this as sure, as night succeedeth day.
If ye will inquire ] Not scoffingly, but seriously; do it then with all earnest, eager, and ardent inquisition.
return, come ] Return to God; Come to his People.
upon Arabia ] Another Prophecy. [verse 13] Of Arabia see the Annotations here. They did wander up and down, and did pitch in tents, chap. XIII. 20. The Arabians were near the Egyptians, 2 Chron XXI. 16. Mount Sinai was in it, Gal. IV. 25. Paul went into it, Gal. I. 17. Solomon had yearly gold from all the Kings of it, 1 Kings X. 15. They traded with Tyre, in Lambs, and Rams, and Goats, Ezek. XXVII. 21. They brought Jehoshaphat presents, flocks, 7700. Rams, and 7700. He Goats, 2 Chron. XVII. 11. But they rose up against his son Jehoram in battle; and their camp slew all his eldest sons, save only the youngest, 2 Chron. XXI. 16. and XXII. 1. In Uzziah's time, God helped him against them, 2 Chron. XXVI. 7. Nebuchadnezzar subdued them, Jer. XXV. 24. Yet afterwards in Nehemiah's time, they eagerly endeavored to hinder him in the building of the walls of Jerusalem, Neh. II. 19. and IV. 7, 8.
In the forest ] Leaving their abode in the champion, they should be driven to seek shelter in the Woods. See Jer. XLIX. 28, 29.
O ye travelling companies of Dedanim ] A people of Arabia, descended from Dedan, one of Abraham's sons by Keturah, Gen. XXV. 3. These travelling companies, are like those, Gen. XXXVII. 25, 28. We now call them Caravans.
Tema ] Another people of Arabia: [verse 14] of Ishmael's race, Gen. XXV. 15. Arabia had in it a mingled people. See Jer. XXV. 23, 24. Job VI. 19. This intimated unto the Temanites, what distress their Countrymen of other parts of Arabia should be brought unto.
For they fled ] It was no groundless fear that makes them flee thus. [verse 15]
within a year ] A shorter time that assigned to the Moabites, [verse 16] chap. XVI. 14. Or that, to the Egyptians and Ethiopians jointly together, chap. XX. 3. the Assyrian falling in upon these parts of Arabia, before those other of the other Countries.
an hireling ] Which reckons his year accurately.
Kedar ] The son of Ishmael, Gen. XXV. 13. Another people of Arabia. They and their Princes also occupied with Tyre, in Lambs, and Rams, and Goats, Ezek. XXVII. 21. They also dwelled in tents; and therefore called Scenites, which they were wont to remove from place to place, to procure change of pasture for their cattle. See Psal. CXX. 5. Cant. I. 5. Nebuchadnezzar did smite them, Jer. XLIX. 28. Yet in the days of the Gospel they should be converted unto Christ, Isaiah XLII. 11. and chap. LX. 7.
valley of Vision] Judah, [chapter XXII] [verse 1] and Jerusalem, ver. 4, 8, 10. Jerusalem and Judea, were full of mountains; and consequently of Valleys. And the Patriarchs, and Prophets, had therein many Visions from God.
What aileth thee now ] In this distress by Sennacherib, in the days of Hezekiah. Rather then that by Nebuchadnezzar.
house tops ] To lament, or look about for help, &c.
not slain with the sword ] But, [verse 2] as it were, stark dead with fear, ere they came to any fight.
they are bound by the archers ] Or, [verse 3] from the bow. Their hands are so restrained, and tied up with extremity of fear, that they are not able to manage and make use of their bows. Or, they are bound and captived by the archers of the enemies.
of crying to the mountains ] So loud, [verse 5] as will cause the mountains to ring again with it. Or, so making to the mountains for shelter and safeguard.
Elam ] Under the Assyrian, [verse 6] fighting in his army.
Kir ] A City in Media, and under the dominion then of the Assyrian, 2 Kings XVI. 9. Amos I. 5.
thou didst look ] About thee, [verse 8] and bestir thee.
in that day ] When the Country was full of foreign forces.
to the house of the forest ] The name of an armory situate within Jerusalem. Most likely that which Solomon built, and called the house of the forest of Lebanon, 1 Kings VII. 2. See the Observations there.
of the lower pool ] See the Observations on Neh. [verse 9] III. 1.
between the two walls ] See 2 Chron. XXXII. 5. Jer. XXXIX. 4.
for tomorrow we shall die ] Either desperately: [verse 13] or rather thus mocking the threatenings of the Prophets.
revealed ] The Lord of Hosts did in my hearing reveal himself, [verse 14] saying, &c.
Shebna ] He was a rotten-hearted man, and one that had much abused his power, [verse 15] being in likelihood of mean parentage; and it may be a stranger by descent. See ver. 16. and chap. XXXVI. 3. He is called the Scribe, or Secretary, 2 Kings XVIII. 18. Here, over the house; as high Steward. Wherein Eliakim succeeded. He was one of the three sent out to Rabshake.
and will surely cover thee ] With shame and sorrow. [verse 17] As Ester VII. 8. 2 Sam. XV. 30. Job IX. 24. Ezek. XII. 6, 12.
Eliakim ] Invested, [verse 20] after the devesting of Shebna.
they shall hang upon him ] As things are wont to be hanged on a pin. [verse 24]
his fathers house, the offspring and the issue ] All his kindred and allies, as well small, as great shall partake of his honor, one way or other. Or, there should be nothing in the Kings house but should be under his power, and have dependence on him.
fastened in a sure place ] As Shebna accounted himself to be. [verse 25]
• e cut down ] Meaning Shebna.
Tyre ] Of Tyre, See the Observations on Josh. XIX. 29. And the Annotations on Amos I. 9. See the like Prophecies against this Town and State, Ier. XXV. 22. and XLVII. 4. Ezek. XXVI. XXVII. XXVIII. chapters, Amos II. 9. Zech. IX. 2, 4.
Tarshish ] Of this see the Observations on 1 Kings X. [chapter XXIII] [verse 1] 22.
from the Land of Chittim it is revealed to them ] It is revealed, and the report is come unto them that formerly traded with Tyre, how it fared with her, that she is sacked; so that now all harbor in Tyre, or entrance into it is denied unto them. Who these of the land of Chittim should be, there are variable conjectures; but little certainty.
inhabitants of the Isle ] Ye, [verse 2] Tyrians.
the seed of Sihor] Tyre described here, [verse 3] by her traffick with Egypt; as formerly with Sidon. See Ezek. XXVII. 7. By the great waters of the midland Sea, the grain of Egypt, and all the trade and commodities of it, of Sihor, that is, Nile, were brought to Tyre. Of this Sihor, or Shichor; and that it is Nile, see the large Annotations upon this Text.
the Sea hath spoken] Tyre. [verse 4]
The Lord of Hosts hath purposed it ] By his Agents to do it. [verse 9] By Nebuchadnezzar, who spent thirteen years in the siege of it, as Josephus against Appion, lib. 1. doth testify. And by Alexander the Great long after, in his rage; as Curtius in his fourth Book, IV. Chapter doth witness.
He ] The Lord. [verse 11]
Behold the Land of the Chaldeans ] This is, [verse 13] or shall be brought to ruin. And therefore it is not impossible but Tyre may be so.
in that day ] Wherein Tyres calamities here foretold shall be accomplished, by Nebuchadnezzar. Ezek. [verse 15] XXVI. 7.
seventy years ] During the same time of the Jews captivity in Babylon.
days of one King ] One Kingdom; as, Dan. VII. 17. and VIII. 21. to wit, in the days and reigns of Nebuchadnezzar, and his son, and his sons son, Jer. XVII. 7.
sing as an harlot ] To renew her lovers; her traders and traffickers.
turn to her hire ] Of trading and traffick.
with all the Kingdoms ] The amplitude of her commerce and trade, ver. 8.
Holiness to the Lord ] The conversion of the Tyrians to God, [verse 18] in the Kingdom of the Messias.
it shall not be treasured, nor laid up ] Not reserved for any common or profane use, public or private, for themselves or their posterity.
that dwell before the Lord ] The Lord's Ministers for their plentiful maintenance, in food and clothing.
the earth empty ] Another Sermon or Prophecy; [chapter XXIV] [verse 1] continuing to the end of Chapter XXVII. This is more General then those going before: And comprehends Judea, and the neighbouring Nations on every side. And the judgments herein denounced, to be executed, partly by the Assyrians, and partly by the Chaldeans, and afterwards also by others, upon them. See the like, Jer. XXV. 15,—38. and XXVII. 2,—8.
as with the people, &c. ] All estates, [verse 2] and conditions should fare alike.
is defiled ] The reason of the former denunciations. [verse 5]
The new wine ] He proceedeth in particular, [verse 7] to instance in some specialties of judgments
The City ] Taken collectively, as, [verse 10] chap. XXV. 2. and XXVII. 10.
every house is shut up ] So as there is no going out, or in.
as the shaking of an Olive-tree ] Few shall be left, [verse 13] yet this remnant shall be to praise the Lord, ver. 14.
from the Sea ] The transmarine lands, [verse 14] and Sea-coasts in general.
God in the fires ] In the fires of tribulations, [verse 15] glorify God, by patient sufferings, and depending upon him for deliverances.
uttermost ] The generality of the joy of this Remnant left. [verse 16]
my leanness, my leanness ] The Prophet breaks off here his relation of the gladsome joy, and praises of the foresaid Remnant; And falls into a passionate bemoaning of himself, and regret, for the miseries, that were the mean while, for their sins, to befall the others.
the windows from on high are opened ] God's vengeance surprizing them, [verse 18] both from above, and from beneath; as well over their heads, as under their feet; and as no shelter for them against the one, so no steady standing for them against the other. To amplify which, hyperbolies are here used.
the host of the high ones ] Such as the Assyrian, [verse 21] and Chaldean Monarchs were.
and after many days shall they be visited ] In favor and mercy. [verse 22] Verified of sundry States and Nations, in the Gospel-times, under the Messias.
Then the Moon, &c.] Isaiah closeth this first part, [verse 23] after his wonted manner; with a passage concerning the spiritual, yet illustrious glory and majesty of God's reigning in his Church, in the times of the Gospel; the brightness and splendor whereof should be such, as no light of Sun, or Moon; no glory, or magnificence of any worldly estate, should be comparable thereunto.
O Lord, [chapter XXV] [verse 1] &c.] Isaiah falleth into a solemn celebration and praising of God, for his foresaid wonderful works, as well of judgment, as of mercy.
the City] Collectively. [verse 3]
of the terrible Nations ] That were a terror to others, shall then stand in awe of thee.
when the blast ] Even in times of most need, [verse 4] and greatest dangers.
And in this mountain ] Mount Zion, [verse 6] a Type of the Church.
unto all people ] As well Gentiles, as Jews.
wines on the lees ] Pure and strong wines.
The face of the covering ] That ignorance and obstinacy, [verse 7] wherewith the minds and hearts of the Gentiles were formerly possessed.
veil] 2 Cor. III. 14, 16.
death ] The second benefit accruing to the convert Nations; [verse 8] a freeing them from the power of death, of death spiritual.
in victory ] Or, unto victory, i. e. until an utter conquest be made of him. So the LXX. which the Apostle retaineth, 1 Cor. XV. 54 because the sense is good and sound; though it do not exactly render the letter; for the Hebrew is, forever.
wipe away ] A third benefit accruing to the godly converted ones: fulfilled partly in this life, and perfectly in the next.
Shall be said ] Their thankful and joyful acknowledgement for those his mercies and favors. [verse 9]
For ] A reason of their rejoicing and triumphing. [verse 10]
in this mountain] Verse 6, 7.
Moab ] Put for the enemies of God's people in general.
And he ] The Lord. [verse 11]
Swimmeth ] Stretcheth out his arms with all his might. So shall the Lord in powerful manner, reach and smite his enemies, on either side, Zech. V. 3.
thy walls ] The walls of Moab, ver. [verse 12] 11.
this Song ] A large Song of purpose penned in this set form, [chapter XXVI] [verse 1] by Isaiah, for God's people, then to be made use of, what time these foresaid benefits should betide them.
For in the Lord Jehovah ] Heb. [verse 4] Jah Jehovah. See the Observations on Psal. LXVIII. 4. Both used distinctly, Psal. CXXXV. 1. Jehovah the usual name, &c.
the feet of the poor ] He setteth up his poor formerly afflicted ones, [verse 9] over the power of their proud oppressors.
Thou most upright] Isaiah directeth his speech unto God; [verse 7] and so runneth on in the greatest part of that which followeth; relating therein the various passages of his Providence; and acknowledging his goodness in going along with them, for his people, and in due time giving a good issue of them.
will learn ] Or should learn. [verse 6]
for their envy at the people ] Their envious and spiteful carriage towards God's people. [verse 11] Or, thy zeal and ardent affection which thou bearest towards thy people, and in behalf of them, against those that oppose them.
yea the fire of thine enemies ] The fire prepared for thine enemies, the fire whereof they are the object.
Lord,] Isaiah speaks still in the person of God's people. [verse 12]
all our works ] Those gracious protections, and strange deliverances, to God alone they ascribe them; all our works, not done by us, but for us.
in us ] Heb. unto us, to our hand, or for us.
They are dead ] God's dealing with other people and persons, [verse 14] irrecoverably destroying them.
Thou hast increased the Nation ] He deals otherwise with his own people, [verse 15] ver. 19. though he variously afflict and chastise them.
we have not wrought any deliverance in the earth ] By all their devices, [verse 18] and designs, they were not able to compass or accomplish ought for the succor or safeguard of them, and their Country.
Thy dead men ] In opposition to that, ver. 14. Thus God's people relate their faith and confidence in God, even in the midst of their deepest miseries: Alluding haply herein, to the general resurrection at the last day.
my dead body ] In this restitution, and National resurrection of the Jewish people, no one of them shall fail to have his share in the same.
Come my people] Isaiah having ended his Song; [verse 20] adviseth God's people to hide and shelter themselves, under God's protection, till the storm of God's foresaid general indignation be overpast.
In that day ] Justice shall be done upon those, [chapter XXVII] [verse 1] be they never so great, that have been the murderers and oppressors of God's people.
even Leviathan that crooked Serpent ] Collectively taken, not of any one particular person alone, but of sundry great Tyrants, that had been principal oppressors of God's people, ch. XXVI. 13.
In that day ] When the potent adversaries of God's people shall be destroyed; [verse 2] and God's people by the former afflictions and chastisements pruned and purged.
Fury is not in me ] No implacable fury towards mine; [verse 4] as it is towards mine, and my Churches enemies. I am towards my people reconcilable, Jer. III. 1.
Who would set the briars ] Sinners set against me in their strength, should by me be soon consumed.
Or let him ] So much rather let the Sinner do. [verse 5]
He shall cause them ] The blessing and benefit upon such as should so make peace with him. [verse 6]
Hath he smitten him, as ] Not so. [verse 7] He deals better in his chastisements of his people.
In measure ] Not over-roughly, [verse 8] but accordingly as he enables them to bear, Jer. XXX. 11. 1 Cor. X. 13. Psal. LXXVIII. 38.
when he maketh all the stones of the Altar ] When Jacob, [verse 9] by his repentance, shall abolish all monuments and relics of his idolatry.
yet the defensed City ] But God's dealing with his enemies shall be as followeth in this, [verse 10] and the next verse, even without mixture of mercy.
in that day] Isaiah, [verse 12] after his wonted manner, Concludes this long Sermon, with a gracious promise of God's restitution of his people, after the main body of the obstinate wicked were by his judgments destroyed from among them, and the residue reformed.
the Lord shall beat off ] Sever his dispersed people from the Nations among whom they remained; to gather them to him, and his worship.
the great trumpet] Cyrus his Proclamation, [verse 13] Ezra I. 1, 2.
Woe ] [chapter XXVIII] [verse 1] Another Sermon or Prophecy.
Ephraim ] Describes them, as men drunk with pride and prosperity, and drowned in sensuality. Thus were the ten Tribes, whereof Ephraim was the head.
fat valleys ] Under the mountain of Samaria. [verse 2]
and strong one] Salmanezer.
with the hand ] By main might.
unto the residue of his people] To Judah. [verse 5]
to the gate ] Of the enemy; [verse 6] beat them thither.
But they ] Even they of Judah, [verse 7] whom God vouchsafeth these favors unto, yet take the same evil courses with Ephraim.
Whom shall he teach ] Their sensuality and and riotous excess, [verse 9] made them sottish, and unteachable.
Precept upon precept ] Yet all to as little purpose to them, [verse 10] as if it were done to a new wearied infant.
another tongue ] They no more reaped fruit from ought spoken to them, [verse 11] then if it had been spoken in a strange tongue, utterly unknown to them. See 1 Cor. XIV. 21.
he said ] God by his Prophets. [verse 12]
This is the rest ] The only means to procure rest and refreshing.
But the word of the Lord ] Through their obstinacy, [verse 13] and God's judgment thereupon.
scornful men ] Verse 15. 2 Pet. 2, 3. [verse 14]
are we at agreement ] We have made provision for our safety, [verse 15] ver. 18.
come unto us ] Or at us.
I lay in Zion ] For the stay of the minds and hearts of the faithful ones, [verse 16] in the midst of all the ensuing judgments, God maketh this provision for them to rest and build upon.
a precious corner stone] Jesus Christ, Psal. CXVIII. 22. Matth. XXI. 42. Acts IV. 11. 1 Pet. I. 4.
shall not make haste ] But with patience wait and expect, Rom. IX. 33. the Apostle in his quotation renders it, shall not be abashed or confounded; regarding not the words, but the matter. Or having an eye to this text, and that also, ch. XLIX. 23. As in the former part of that quotation he joineth two places together, ch. VIII. 14. and XXVIII 16.
lay to the line ] God will in an exact and precise way of justice proceed against those sensual, [verse 17] secure, and scornful wretches. A metaphor taken from Carpenters.
For the bed ] They should be in such straits and distresses, [verse 20] as all their wiles and shifts should not be able either to secure, or sucour them in.
as in mount Perazim] 2 Sam. V. 20. See the like, [verse 21] ch. X. 26. and XIII. 19.
Valley of Gibeon ] Either, that 2 Sam. V. 25. Or, that Josh. X. 10.
his strange work ] His dismal judgment; and that upon his own people; grown to such an extreme height of sin and obstinacy. Strange, in itself, strange to God, to deal so with the body of his own people.
lest your bands ] Lest God tie them up the shorter for it. [verse 22]
a consumption ] Of such of you, as so continue, through the whole land.
Doth the ploughman ] He doth not always insist upon one piece of [verse 24] his work. And so God will not always, and only be menacing.
Another Sermon seems to begin; and to continue, ch. XXX. and XXXI.
Woe ] A sad prophesy against Jerusalem, [chapter XXIX] [verse 1] and the Temple; and consequently the whole State of the Jews.
to Ariel ] The word signifies a Lion of God. Hereby is meant the brazen Altar, so called, Ezek. XLIII. 15, 16. and called God's furnace or chimney, ch. XXXI. 9.
the City ] Or of, Or in. Or, and to the City.
add ye year to year ] Cause feastival sacrifices still to be slain.
and it shall be unto me as Ariel ] The whole City shall be as an Ariel; all on a light fire, [verse 2] all full of gore blood, and dead bodies of men slaughtered, after the surprisal of it.
And I will camp ] Bring an enemy to do it, [verse 3] verse 8. myself commanding them, as in chief. This enemy may be understood both of the Assyrian Sennacherib; and the Babylonian Nebuchadnezzar.
of thy strangers ] All thy help's from abroad, [verse 5] or at home.
with thunder ] In a most dreadful and direful manner. [verse 6]
As when an hungry man ] Sets out the appetite, [verse 8] the eagerness and unsatiablenesse of the enemies cruelty and thirst after blood.
and wonder ] At the strange stupidity of the body of the people; [verse 9] that regarded not what had been threatened.
the Lord hath poured] Verse 14. [verse 10] See the Observations on ch. VI. 10. See ch. XIX. 14. And the Apostles allegation of this text, Rom. XI. 8.
draw near me with their mouth] Matth. XV. 3, 8, 9. [verse 13]
deep to hide ] Hide deep, [verse 15] from the Lord, for him to be able to discern and discover. Thus these scoffing States-men conceived of their own contrivances, their wiles and shifts for themselves: and derided all that the Prophets spake.
as the potters clay ] Lieth as open to his eye; [verse 16] and as easy for him to mould, or mar.
Is it not yet, &c. ] This seems rather a Promise, [verse 17] then a Commination, chap. XXXII. 15. That great should be the fruitfulness of the Land, upon the restitution of their State, either after the Assyrian devastation; or after the Babylonian deportation.
shall the deaf hear] Isaiah here, [verse 18] after his usual manner, beginneth to close up his Sermon, with matter of comfort, and gracious promises; fulfilled partly in those times; but chiefly in the Kingdom of the Messias: The Promises concern the illumination of the mind, in this verse, the joy of the godly, verse 19. the confusion of those that wronged them, verse 20, 21. the vindication from shame and fear; and the propagation and enlargement of the Church, by access of many Proselytes, verse 22, 23, 24.
In this, and the next Chapter, Isaiah principally bends himself against those that sought and trusted to foreign helps and succors; and not to God.
Zoan ] This; [chapter XXX] [verse 4] and Hanes, otherwise called Tahapanes, and Tahpanhes, were famous Cities in Egypt. Thither they sent for help against the Assyrian: and after, against the Babylonian.
The burden of the beasts of the South ] The burden that the beasts of the Jews were to carry Southward into Egypt, [verse 6] either to secure their treasures there, or to procure aid thence.
from whence come the young and the old Lion, ] The way thither so dangerous. And the Egyptians themselves should prove such and so dangerous to the Jews.
write it before them in a table ] Or, write this prophesy on a table, [verse 8] that it may be with them: to witness against them hereafter.
And therefore ] Having reference to what follows. [verse 18] Or, Notwithstanding, if it relate to the premises.
Will the Lord wait ] Here is matter of comfort, concerning the deliverance and restitution of God's people, ver. 18,—26. And the destruction of the Assyrian, their enemy, ver. 27,—33.
and thine ears] Not as before, [verse 21] ver. 10, 11.
Get thee hence] As Matth. IV. 10. [verse 22] and ch. XVI. 23.
great slaughter] Of Sennacherib's camp. [verse 25]
towers fall ] His great ones, and Princes in state and place.
as the light of seven days ] Put all in one. [verse 26] So great then should their joy be.
burning with his anger ] The destruction of Sennacherib, [verse 27] and his forces: And the great joy that God's people should have thereupon. With the same are divers Chapters and Sermons concluded: as ch. X. 33, 34. and XIV. 24, 25. and XVII. 12,—14. and XXXI. 8, 9. and XXXIII. 13, 14.
the Nations ] That served under Sennacherib. [verse 28]
causing them to err ] And wander to and fro, to make what haste they could into their own Country again.
as in the night ] Of their holy Festivals. [verse 29] Some solemn night-wakes they used to have, before, or after the day of their Feastivals.
goeth with a pipe ] With music in the way going up to God's House: to cheer up themselves; the journey being sometimes long.
scattering, and tempest, and hailstones ] It may seem that together with the Angel smiting, [verse 30] there was an horrible and hideous tempest, wherewith the Assyrians were surprised. And thus also it is by some deemed that God disturbed the Egyptian at the red-sea, with a storm like this described.
Assyrian] Sennacherib. [verse 31]
Tophet ] See the Observations on 2 Kings XXIII. 10. [verse 33]
for the King ] His forces, wherein he suffered; or those Kings that served under Sennacherib: yea, his Commanders he counted as Kings, ch. X. 8. 33. For himself, his Temple was his Topheth, chapter XXXVII. ver. 38.
This Chapter is of the same subject with the former.
for help ] Against the Assyrians, [chapter XXXI] [verse 1] chap. XXX. 6, 7. and XXXVI. 8. As after in process of time, against the Chaldeans, Jer. XXXVII. 5. and XLIII. 5, 6, 7.
For thus ] Here beginneth the Comfortable part of this Prophecy. [verse 4]
to fight for mount Zion ] Far higher mounts encircled it.
As birds flying ] And fluttering about their nests, [verse 5] to defend their young ones, in what they may; so God in all affection and sedulity will defend Jerusalem, and those that trust in him.
Turn ye unto him ] And so should they partake of the promised protection. [verse 6]
children of Israel] Meaning here Judah.
deeply revolted] Hos. V. 2. and IX. 9.
cast away his idols ] Wherein they trusted for help, [verse 7] ch. II. 20.
fall with the sword ] Not of a man; [verse 8] but of an Angel.
flee ] As he did, ch. XXXVII. 37.
strong hold] To Nineveh.
afraid of the Ensign ] That God by his Angel had lifted up, in the slaughter of their fellows.
whose fire is in Zion ] Kept on his Altar there ever burning. Or rather, fire to burn up the enemies of him, his worship, his people.
a King] Hezekiah. [chapter XXXII] [verse 1] Yet a type of Christ; as before him, David, Ezek. XXXIV. 24.
Shall reign ] Hence some suppose this Prophecy to have been delivered in Ahaz his days. Some in Hezekiah's, concerning his religigious and righteous government of his people, specially after the overthrow of Sennacherib; and his recovery out of his sickness.
Princes] Under Hezekiah.
And a man ] Each one under him. [verse 2]
in a weary land ] Where men are weary of travelling, through heat, and drought.
not be dim ] Or closed, as those, ch. XXIX. 10. and VI. 9. Not look another way, [verse 3] from God, unto Idols: from the light of God's Word, and his judgments conspicuously manifested unto them; not willfully shut their eyes, or turn them aside from them; as those, chap. XXVI. 11.
Shall hearken ] Not refuse to hear, as formerly, chap. XXVIII. 9,—13. and XLVIII. 18. but hearkeu diligently, as chap. XXI. 7. and XXIX. 18. and XXX. 21. and XXXV. 5.
stammerers ] That did but stammer before at any good and religious speech, [verse 4] shall now manifest the inward alteration and change of their hearts by their ready religious speaking the language of Canaan, that which may minister grace and edification to the hearers.
no more called liberal ] They shall no more call vice, [verse 5] virtue; evil, good; but they shall in singleness of soul call sin, sin, a spade, a spade.
For the vile person ] His description. [verse 6]
Churl ] His description. [verse 7]
Liberal ] His description. [verse 8] The drift seems to be this, That in Hezekiah's reign, base-minded, and evil-affected persons should not be now raised and advanced unto places of honor and authority, as in his father Ahaz his time too many had been; and too likely base and wicked Shebna: But now, only worthy men.
Rise up] Isaiah here returns to speak of those troubles that were to come, [verse 9] before the establishment of the State, in manner before described.
ye women ] The Court-Ladies especially, that were faulty, as the men; and the more secure and careless, as less fore-seeing dangers to come; and yet must suffer in them alike, though less able to bear them then the men. Therefore Isaiah rouzeth up them; and by them, the men.
Many days and years ] Heb. Many days above a year. [verse 10] Some use the translation in the text: and apply it to the LXX years in the Babylonish captivity: Others rather use the marginal reading; and apply it to a just and exact limitation of that calamitous time of almost two years, whiles the Assyrian abode in the land; For full two years he could not be there, considering he came in, in the fourteenth year of Hezekiah, 2 Kings XVIII. 13. And afterwards Hezekiah's life was prolonged fifteen years, chap. XXXVIII. 5. And he reigned but 29. in all, 2 Kings XVIII. 2.
for the teats ] Which were to them as teats. [verse 12] Some translate, There shall be beating upon the breasts, Nahum II. 7.
shall come up thorns] Isaiah seems here to pass from that short invasion of the Assyrian, [verse 13] to that greater and longer of the Chaldean Nebuchadnezzar: As if he should say, I am now farther to acquaint you with this later; and which is far worse every way, and of a far longer continuance; in this, and the next verse.
forever ] a long time, about seventy years. Of, ever, see the Observations on Deut. XV. 17.
Until the Spirit] Isaiah concludes, [verse 15] as usually, with gracious Promises. This promise may extend also to the time of the Messias.
when it shall hail coming down on the forest ] God will preserve the fruits of the earth for them, [verse 19] that they shall not with storm and tempest be destroyed.
and the City shall be low in a low place ] Though the Cities built there, yet shall be there secure, verse 18. even though, say some, it hail never so much; and Cities be brought never so low.
Blessed are ye ] God's blessing on their husbandry and labors. [verse 20] Appliable to God's spiritual husbandry, in the Ministry of the Gospel.
This Chapter seems to begin another Sermon, [chapter XXXIII] continued on in the two next Chapters. And in the whole Sermon Isaiah mainly insists upon the destruction of the enemies of God's people; and upon their defense and deliverance, their privileges, and joyful flourishing estate, thereupon ensuing, and opposed thereunto.
This Chapter is much of the same nature and subject with the former Chapter.
Woe to thee] Nebuchadnezzar; or rather Sennacherib, ver. 8. [verse 1]
they shall deal treacherously with thee ] This may relate to Sennacherib's two sons slaying their father, ch. XXXVII. 38.
O Lord ] The Prayer of the faithful in time of trouble. [verse 2]
At the noise ] This is in way of answer to the former Prayer. [verse 3]
fled ] As the manner of the Prophets is, to speak of things future as past. So it came to pass in the Assyrian Camp.
your spoils ] Speaking to the Assyrians. [verse 4]
shall he run upon them ] The Jew pillaging the Assyrian camp.
of thy times] O Hezekiah. [verse 6]
their valient ones shall cry ] Shew the disttesse of God's people, [verse 7] the Jews should be in.
the Ambassadors ] Sent with presents to Sennacherib, 2 Kings XVIII. 14. Or those sent out to Rabshakeh, ch. XXXVI. 3.
He hath broken the Covenant] Sennacherib did so, [verse 8] 2 Kings XVIII. 14, 17.
Now will I arise ] To help and deliver my people, [verse 10] in this extremity.
ye shall conceive chaff ] The Assyrians. [verse 11]
as the burnings of lime ] Describes that fatal blow in the Assyrian Camp. [verse 12]
The sinners in Zion are afraid ] Terrified with this dreadful execution done upon the Assyrians, [verse 14] and complaining, and fearing lest the like vengeance might light also upon them, as they knew they deserved it; As, Num. XVI. 34.
with devouring fire? ] With God, who is a consuming fire?
He that walketh ] The Prophets answer. [verse 15]
Thine eyes shall see the King ] A further blessing that such should enjoy, [verse 17] the sight of their King, and State settled in prosperity and glory.
the land that is very far off ] Liberty to travel abroad in safety, unto the remotest parts of the land, without danger or disturbance. Or, as some, remote lands subdued by the King.
Where is the Scribe? ] So now taunting Sennacherib, [verse 18] and his Officers in the Camp, 1 Cor. I. 20. either minds not this Text; or alludes only to the phrase in it.
not see ] For they shall be slain, [verse 19] or flee.
Look upon Zion ] See how safe, [verse 20] and whole it is.
No galley ] Of any enemy shall be able with help of wind and oars, [verse 21] to get up to it, to annoy it.
Thy tacklings ] Speaking to the Assyrians. [verse 23]
the inhabitant] Of Jerusalem.
forgiven their iniquity ] Being refined by their chastisements, [verse 24] and reformed; and so God reconciled to them.
This Chapter, [chapter XXXIV] for the subject matter of it, agreeth much with ch. XXIV. This being a Prophecy of the destruction of the enemies of God's people: And more particularly of the Edomites in Idumea: set forth in many hyperbolical expressions.
And all the host of heaven ] So strange and dreadful shall God's judgments be, [verse 4] that the whole frame of the world shall seem to be dissolved. It is the manner of God's Prophets, in their descriptions of some extraordinary judgments to set them forth in such colors, as if they were deciphering the face of that last universal judgment; whereof such are, in some sort, resemblances and forerunners. And again to set forth the restitution and restauration of God's people out of greatest calamities, in such terms, as have occasioned many to be mistaken in them▪ conceiving no other then the general and joyful resurrection at the last day to be described in them.
Unicorns ] Or Rhinocerots. See the Observations on Num. XXIII. 22. [verse 7]
forever and ever] Heb. [verse 10] ever of evers.
The Cormorant ] See the like, [verse 11] Chap. XIII. 18,—22. and XIV. 23. Zeph. II. 13, 14. Apoc. XVIII. 2.
Seek ye out ] The certainty of this Prophecy: [verse 16] As if each thing here were entered into a roll of Record. In the day of the execution of this judgment, take this Book, read this passage; and see if any of these be found wanting then and there.
they shall ] These wild creatures shall. [verse 17]
This Chapter agreeth much with chap. [chapter XXXV] XXV. And contains the joyful and glorious restitution, exaltation, and exultation of God's people.
Sharon ] A fertil region, [verse 2] and pleasant, lying beneath mount Lebanon, in the Tribe of God, and adjoining unto Bashan, 1 Chron. V. 16. There were the Roses mentioned, Cant. II. 1. There had David his herds feeding, 1 Chron. XXVII. 29. Likely it is the same with Lassharon, Josh. XII. 18.
Strengthen ye ] He incites them to hearten and encourge one another, [verse 3] with faith and patience to expect the accomplishment of those glorious promises.
Then the eyes of the blind ] Fulfilled in Christ's time, [verse 5] both corporaly and spiritually.
For in the wilderness ] Literaly true in the Jewish Kingdom: [verse 6] being there • n a Type of Christ's.
And an high way ] They shall be blessed with peace, [verse 8] and safety.
the way of holiness ] A Type of the way to heaven.
but it shall be for those ] Holy ones, verse 5, 6.
No Lion shall be there ] As the way so plain; [verse 9] so as free from danger.
This History is brought in to confirm and seal up the truth of some of the Prophecies and Predictions aforegoing. This is recorded, 2 Kings XVIII. and XIX. 2 Chron. XXXII.
came up ] Upon pretence likely of the Contribution withheld by Hezekiah, [chapter XXXVI] [verse 1] which his father Ahaz had paid to Tiglath-Pilezer, 2 Kings XVI. 7, 9. and XVIII. 7.
without the Lord] Heb. Jehovah, [verse 10] that son of four letters, as the Hebrews call it: used here by Rabshakeh six times in his Speech.
Syrian language] See the Observations on Ezra IV. 7. [verse 11]
dung and pisse ] See the Observations on 2 Kings X. 27. [verse 12]
and take you away ] The manner of Conquerors to transplant the Natives. [verse 17]
Sepharvaim ] Subdued before his time, [verse 19] 2 Kings XVII. 24.
Eliakim ] Now in Shebna's office and place. [verse 22] And Shebna now the Scribe; and so here is the beginning of his fall, chap. XXII. 20, 21. chap. XXXVII. 2.
This Chapter the same in substance with 2 Kings XIX. [chapter XXXVII]
a rumor] Verse 9. and 36. [verse 7]
So Rabshakeh returned ] Most likely leaving the army still before Jerusalem. [verse 8]
Libnah ] See the Observations on 2 Kings VIII. 22.
Lachish ] See the Annotations on Micah I. 13.
Ethiopia ] See the Observations on Gen. II. 13.
war with thee ] Either to assist the Jews; [verse 9] or in Assyria, in the absence of Sennacherib and his forces.
Thus shall ye speak ] Instructions to his messengers, [verse 10] delivered to them in writing; and so by them in writing to Hezekiah: Likely as if he scorned to write himself to Hezekiah, but sent him only a Copy of the Instructions.
Eden ] See the Observations on Gen. II. 8. [verse 12]
Cherubims ] See the Observations on Gen. III. 24. [verse 16] And the Annotations on Ezek. IX. 3. and on this text.
a Sign ] See the Observations on chap. VII. 14. [verse 30] and on Exod. III. 12.
ye shall eat this year ] A confirmation of Sennacherib's sudden departure and return home: And also including in it an assurance of a comfortable provision of necessary food for them, out of the Land; notwithstanding all the havoc that Sennacherib's armies had made in it; and the coincident Sabbatical year, for intermission of culture. See the Observations on Lev. XXV. 21.
Then ] In that night, [verse 36] 2 Kings XIX. 35. the very next night after the message sent from God, by Isaiah.
and smote ] The manner how is not expressed.
in the camp ] Likely both before Jerusalem, and Libnah. See Ch. XXXVI. 2. and verse 8, 9, 14, 33. of this Chapter.
all dead corpses ] All in a manner. Yet some escaped, and sled with Sennacherib himself. See chap. XVII. 14.
Nineveh ] See the Annotations on Jonah I. 2. [verse 37] and on this text.
his sons ] These words here written; [verse 38] are read in the margin, but not written in the text, 2 Kings XIX. 37.
Armenia ] Heb. Ararat on the mountains whereof the Ark rested.
Esarhaddon ] See the Observations on Ezra IV. 2.
In those days ] [chapter XXXVIII] [verse 1] Shortly after Sennacherib's defeat and departure.
shalt die ] Yet a secret reservation there was. See Jer. XVIII. 7, 8. Ezek. III. 18. See the Observations on Jonah III. 4.
to the wall ] Which haply might be towards the Temple: [verse 2] or by that withdrawing, that he might with the more privacie, and intention, make his address to God.
remember now ] Humbly appealing to God, [verse 3] touching the integrity and sincerity of his heart, and endeavors.
wept s • re ] One cause might be the want of a son. Manasseh was not yet born. And the State of Church, and Common-wealth much unsettled.
Then ] Afore Isaiah was gone out into the middle Court, [verse 4] 2 Kings XX. 4. where the text is City; but the margin, Court. And the first Court of the Kings house, that nearest the Palace, and farthest from the street or City, seems here to be meant.
to thy days ] That he had lived already. [verse 5]
fifteen years ] About the one half of his reign. [verse 6]
will deliver thee and this City ] The promise before made, is again here renewed; assuring him, as of his life; so of peace and tranquility to be continued to him, with it; that Sennacherib should not return; or any Assyrian to molest him, or this City, 2 Chron. XXXII. 22. which yet afterwards was done in the days of his son Manasseh, 2 Chron. XXXIII. 11.
a Sign ] Asked by Hezekiah, ver. 22. [verse 7] and put to his choice, 2 Kings XX. 8, 10.
So the Sun returned ten degrees ] Not the shadow only: [verse 8] which indeed depended upon the Sun. Nor could foreign people in remote places have taken notice of this miracle, had no alteration been in the course of the Universe, 2 Chron. XXXII. 31. For this miracle as it was visible in Judea, so in other parts of the world also; particularly in Babylon; the King and Princes whereof observing the thing, yet ignorant of the occasion, except by report only, which might deceive, for their further satisfaction send Ambassadors to Hezekiah, not only to congratulate his recovery, but to inquire of the wonder, 2 Chron. XXXII. 31. In this Miracle, if the Sun went back in its ordinary pace and swiftness; and in like sort did return forward again, then that Day-light must be long thirty two hours, if by a degree, an hour be understood. If the Sun returned back ten degrees in an instant, then it must be long twenty two hours. But by a degree here most likely half an hour is understood. See more of this in the