The noise of a multitude in the mountains, like as of a great people; a tumultuous noise of the kingdoms of nations gathered together: the LORD of hosts mustereth the host of the battle.
The chapter opens with 'the burden of Babylon' (v.1), then Isaiah describes hearing 'a noise of a multitude in the mountains, like as of a great people.' This is no ordinary army but a tumultuous gathering of kingdoms and nations. The phrase 'the LORD of hosts mustereth the host of the battle' reveals this is divine warfare—God assembling His forces for judgment. The Medes and others serve as God's instruments (v.17). This cosmic army gathers not by human command but by divine summons. When God decrees judgment, nations march at His command.
Historical Context
This prophecy against Babylon was delivered when Assyria, not Babylon, dominated the ancient Near East. Babylon's rise to power came later—Nebuchadnezzar's Babylon conquered Assyria (612 BC) and Judah (586 BC). Yet Babylon itself fell to the Medes and Persians in 539 BC, fulfilling Isaiah's prophecy delivered 150+ years earlier. This demonstrates prophetic foreknowledge—Isaiah saw Babylon's rise and fall before either occurred. God's sovereignty over empires is absolute: He raises up, and He tears down.
Questions for Reflection
How does God's use of pagan nations as His instruments of judgment reveal His absolute sovereignty?
What does prophetic fulfillment centuries after prediction teach about trusting God's promises for the future?
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Analysis & Commentary
The chapter opens with 'the burden of Babylon' (v.1), then Isaiah describes hearing 'a noise of a multitude in the mountains, like as of a great people.' This is no ordinary army but a tumultuous gathering of kingdoms and nations. The phrase 'the LORD of hosts mustereth the host of the battle' reveals this is divine warfare—God assembling His forces for judgment. The Medes and others serve as God's instruments (v.17). This cosmic army gathers not by human command but by divine summons. When God decrees judgment, nations march at His command.