Isaiah 16:13
This is the word that the LORD hath spoken concerning Moab since that time.
Original Language Analysis
הַדָּבָ֗ר
This is the word
H1697
הַדָּבָ֗ר
This is the word
Strong's:
H1697
Word #:
2 of 8
a word; by implication, a matter (as spoken of) or thing; adverbially, a cause
אֲשֶׁ֨ר
H834
אֲשֶׁ֨ר
Strong's:
H834
Word #:
3 of 8
who, which, what, that; also (as an adverb and a conjunction) when, where, how, because, in order that, etc
דִּבֶּ֧ר
hath spoken
H1696
דִּבֶּ֧ר
hath spoken
Strong's:
H1696
Word #:
4 of 8
perhaps properly, to arrange; but used figuratively (of words), to speak; rarely (in a destructive sense) to subdue
יְהוָ֛ה
that the LORD
H3068
יְהוָ֛ה
that the LORD
Strong's:
H3068
Word #:
5 of 8
(the) self-existent or eternal; jeho-vah, jewish national name of god
Historical Context
This indicates Isaiah received Moab oracles at different times, compiling them into current collection. Prophets often received revelations over extended periods, sometimes revisiting earlier prophecies with additional details. "Since that time" suggests earlier revelation now receiving updated specificity (verse 14's three years). Biblical books often resulted from prophetic ministries spanning decades. The Mesha Stele provides extrabiblical testimony to historical realities behind these prophecies.
Questions for Reflection
- What does "the LORD hath spoken" teach about prophecy's authority and reliability?
- How does progressive revelation demonstrate God's sovereignty over history?
- How do fulfilled prophecies validate Scripture's divine origin and trustworthiness?
Related Resources
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Analysis & Commentary
"This is the word that the LORD hath spoken concerning Moab since that time." This distinguishes earlier prophecy from new revelation following. It establishes prophetic authority and timeline—previous oracles existed, now God adds specific timeframe. "The LORD hath spoken"—not human prediction but divine decree. This underscores prophecy's reliability and authority. Reformed theology upholds Scripture's divine authorship; prophetic words aren't contingent but reveal God's sovereign decrees. The historical layering (earlier + later) demonstrates progressive revelation and prophets' role communicating divine intent across time.