Isaiah Chapter 15 · Verse 7
Therefore the abundance they have gotten, and that which they have laid up, shall they carry away to the brook of the willows.
Original Language Analysis
עַל
H5921
עַל
Strong's:
H5921
Word #:
1 of 9
above, over, upon, or against (yet always in this last relation with a downward aspect) in a great variety of applications
כֵּ֖ן
H3651
כֵּ֖ן
Strong's:
H3651
Word #:
2 of 9
properly, set upright; hence (figuratively as adjective) just; but usually (as adverb or conjunction) rightly or so (in various applications to manner
יִתְרָ֣ה
Therefore the abundance
H3502
יִתְרָ֣ה
Therefore the abundance
Strong's:
H3502
Word #:
3 of 9
properly, excellence, i.e., (by implication) wealth
עָשָׂ֑ה
they have gotten
H6213
עָשָׂ֑ה
they have gotten
Strong's:
H6213
Word #:
4 of 9
to do or make, in the broadest sense and widest application
וּפְקֻדָּתָ֔ם
and that which they have laid up
H6486
וּפְקֻדָּתָ֔ם
and that which they have laid up
Strong's:
H6486
Word #:
5 of 9
visitation (in many senses, chiefly official)
עַ֛ל
H5921
עַ֛ל
Strong's:
H5921
Word #:
6 of 9
above, over, upon, or against (yet always in this last relation with a downward aspect) in a great variety of applications
נַ֥חַל
to the brook
H5158
נַ֥חַל
to the brook
Strong's:
H5158
Word #:
7 of 9
a stream, especially a winter torrent; (by implication) a (narrow) valley (in which a brook runs); also a shaft (of a mine)
Historical Context
The "brook of the willows" (Wadi Arabah/Zered) formed the traditional boundary between Moab and Edom, mentioned in Israel's wilderness journey (Deuteronomy 2:13-14). In ancient warfare, refugees typically fled to neighboring territories, often receiving harsh treatment or enslavement. The image of carrying remaining possessions mirrors countless ancient reliefs showing deportation scenes, particularly Assyrian palace reliefs depicting conquered peoples. This prophecy's fulfillment created a diaspora of Moabite refugees, contributing to the nation's eventual disappearance from history.
Questions for Reflection
- What does the image of refugees carrying "the abundance they have gotten" teach about the transience of earthly security?
- How should God's people respond to displaced persons and refugees fleeing judgment?
- In what ways does Moab's fate warn against trusting in national pride and earthly securities?
Analysis & Commentary
Refugees carrying remaining possessions "to the brook of the willows" (likely the Zered valley marking Moab's southern border) depicts desperate flight with whatever can be salvaged. The phrase "the abundance they have gotten" (Hebrew yitrah, surplus/remainder) suggests not wealth but survival supplies—what little remains after devastation. Crossing the border represents losing homeland, identity, and security. This scene of displaced persons prefigures countless refugee movements through history. Theologically, it illustrates that earthly possessions and securities ultimately fail; only relationship with the eternal God provides refuge that cannot be shaken. The willows' association with water in desert suggests searching for life-giving resources in exile—a picture of humanity's search for hope amid judgment.