Isaiah 10:31
Madmenah is removed; the inhabitants of Gebim gather themselves to flee.
Original Language Analysis
נָדְדָ֖ה
is removed
H5074
נָדְדָ֖ה
is removed
Strong's:
H5074
Word #:
1 of 5
properly, to wave to and fro (rarely to flap up and down); figuratively, to rove, flee, or (causatively) to drive away
יֹשְׁבֵ֥י
the inhabitants
H3427
יֹשְׁבֵ֥י
the inhabitants
Strong's:
H3427
Word #:
3 of 5
properly, to sit down (specifically as judge. in ambush, in quiet); by implication, to dwell, to remain; causatively, to settle, to marry
Historical Context
Madmenah and Gebim are less certainly identified than other towns in this passage, possibly small settlements that didn't survive into later periods. The pattern of flight before invading armies was common in ancient warfare—civilians fled to fortified cities (like Jerusalem) or to remote areas, hoping to return when armies passed. This forced migration created humanitarian crises: refugee camps, food shortages, disease. The Assyrian policy of mass deportation made such displacements permanent for conquered peoples.
Questions for Reflection
- How should believers respond to displacement and refugee crises in light of God's sovereignty and compassion?
- What does the pattern of trial-before-deliverance teach about trusting God's timing?
Related Resources
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Analysis & Commentary
The flight intensifies: 'Madmenah is removed; the inhabitants of Gebim gather themselves to flee.' Towns are evacuated; populations flee before the advancing army. The Hebrew verb translated 'removed' suggests complete abandonment, not just evacuation. 'Gather themselves' implies desperate assembly of refugees. This picture of displacement and panic represents the human cost of imperial aggression—people uprooted, homes abandoned, lives disrupted. Yet even in this dire situation, God's people should remember: He who allowed this trial will also deliver from it according to His purposes.