Isaiah 22:9
Ye have seen also the breaches of the city of David, that they are many: and ye gathered together the waters of the lower pool.
Original Language Analysis
וְאֵ֨ת
H853
וְאֵ֨ת
Strong's:
H853
Word #:
1 of 12
properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)
עִיר
of the city
H5892
עִיר
of the city
Strong's:
H5892
Word #:
3 of 12
a city (a place guarded by waking or a watch) in the widest sense (even of a mere encampment or post)
רְאִיתֶ֖ם
Ye have seen
H7200
רְאִיתֶ֖ם
Ye have seen
Strong's:
H7200
Word #:
5 of 12
to see, literally or figuratively (in numerous applications, direct and implied, transitive, intransitive and causative)
כִּי
H3588
כִּי
Strong's:
H3588
Word #:
6 of 12
(by implication) very widely used as a relative conjunction or adverb (as below); often largely modified by other particles annexed
רָ֑בּוּ
that they are many
H7231
רָ֑בּוּ
that they are many
Strong's:
H7231
Word #:
7 of 12
properly, to cast together , i.e., increase, especially in number; to multiply by the myriad
אֶת
H853
אֶת
Strong's:
H853
Word #:
9 of 12
properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)
מֵ֥י
the waters
H4325
מֵ֥י
the waters
Strong's:
H4325
Word #:
10 of 12
water; figuratively, juice; by euphemism, urine, semen
Historical Context
Jerusalem's water systems were engineering marvels. Hezekiah built the famous tunnel bringing water from Gihon Spring to the Pool of Siloam inside the city walls (2 Kings 20:20, 2 Chronicles 32:30). The 'lower pool' (also mentioned Isaiah 22:11) and 'upper pool' (Isaiah 7:3) were parts of this system. Archaeological excavations have confirmed these complex waterworks. While Hezekiah's tunnel was wise preparation, Isaiah criticizes trusting engineering without repentance.
Questions for Reflection
- What does 'seeing the breaches' teach about honest assessment of our vulnerabilities and weaknesses?
- How can we 'gather water' (make prudent preparations) while still maintaining primary trust in God rather than our preparations?
- Why does God criticize practical wisdom (wall repairs, water security) in this passage?
Related Resources
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Analysis & Commentary
Ye have seen also the breaches of the city of David, that they are many—Jerusalem's walls had breaches (בְּדֶקֶת, bedeqet, breaks/gaps) requiring repair. The city of David refers to the original fortress Jerusalem, the oldest fortified section. The phrase "they are many" shows extensive damage or vulnerability.
And ye gathered together the waters of the lower pool (וְאֶת־מֵימֵי הַבְּרֵכָה הַתַּחְתּוֹנָה קִבַּצְתֶּם, ve'et-meimei haberekhah hatachtonah qibbatstem)—water security was crucial for siege survival. The "lower pool" was likely part of Jerusalem's complex water system. Gathering/collecting water (קָבַץ, qabats) shows preparation for siege.
This verse describes rational siege preparation: assess damage (see the breaches), secure water supply (gather water from the pool). These were wise military measures. The problem isn't the actions themselves but the absence of spiritual preparation—no mention of seeking God, repenting, or trusting Him (condemned in vv.11-14).