Isaiah 2:15
And upon every high tower, and upon every fenced wall,
Original Language Analysis
וְעַ֖ל
H5921
וְעַ֖ל
Strong's:
H5921
Word #:
1 of 8
above, over, upon, or against (yet always in this last relation with a downward aspect) in a great variety of applications
כָּל
H3605
כָּל
Strong's:
H3605
Word #:
2 of 8
properly, the whole; hence, all, any or every (in the singular only, but often in a plural sense)
מִגְדָּ֣ל
tower
H4026
מִגְדָּ֣ל
tower
Strong's:
H4026
Word #:
3 of 8
a tower (from its size or height); by analogy, a rostrum; figuratively, a (pyramidal) bed of flowers
גָּבֹ֑הַ
And upon every high
H1364
גָּבֹ֑הַ
And upon every high
Strong's:
H1364
Word #:
4 of 8
elevated (or elated), powerful, arrogant
וְעַ֖ל
H5921
וְעַ֖ל
Strong's:
H5921
Word #:
5 of 8
above, over, upon, or against (yet always in this last relation with a downward aspect) in a great variety of applications
Historical Context
Hezekiah's fortification of Jerusalem with expanded walls and towers (2 Chronicles 32:5) demonstrated political prudence yet couldn't ultimately prevent Assyrian siege. Only God's intervention delivered the city (Isaiah 37:36).
Questions for Reflection
- What defensive 'towers' and 'walls' of self-protection do we construct instead of trusting God's providence?
- How does this verse challenge nationalistic trust in military strength?
Related Resources
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Analysis & Commentary
Towers and walls—defensive structures representing military security—face divine judgment. Human fortifications cannot withstand God's assault; trust in military might proves vain (Psalm 20:7). This theme recurs in Isaiah's prophecy against Babylonian walls (Isaiah 25:12) and anticipates Revelation's depiction of fallen Babylon (Revelation 18:21). The Reformed emphasis on providence recognizes that ultimate security resides not in human defenses but in God's sovereign protection of His elect.