Isaiah 34:12
They shall call the nobles thereof to the kingdom, but none shall be there, and all her princes shall be nothing.
Original Language Analysis
חֹרֶ֥יהָ
the nobles
H2715
חֹרֶ֥יהָ
the nobles
Strong's:
H2715
Word #:
1 of 9
properly, white or pure (from the cleansing or shining power of fire; hence (figuratively) noble (in rank)
וְאֵֽין
H369
שָׁ֖ם
H8033
יִקְרָ֑אוּ
They shall call
H7121
יִקְרָ֑אוּ
They shall call
Strong's:
H7121
Word #:
5 of 9
to call out to (i.e., properly, address by name, but used in a wide variety of applications)
וְכָל
H3605
וְכָל
Strong's:
H3605
Word #:
6 of 9
properly, the whole; hence, all, any or every (in the singular only, but often in a plural sense)
שָׂרֶ֖יהָ
but none shall be there and all her princes
H8269
שָׂרֶ֖יהָ
but none shall be there and all her princes
Strong's:
H8269
Word #:
7 of 9
a head person (of any rank or class)
Historical Context
Edom had a continuous line of chieftains and kings (Genesis 36:31-43). Their political extinction was unthinkable in Isaiah's time but became historical reality.
Questions for Reflection
- How does the extinction of Edom's rulers demonstrate that all authority is delegated by God?
- What does this teach about the temporary nature of human governments?
- How should Christians view political power in light of God's ultimate sovereignty?
Related Resources
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Analysis & Commentary
The ironic statement "they shall call...but none shall be there" emphasizes total extinction of Edom's nobility. The calling of nobles to kingship yields nothing—a kingdom without rulers shows complete political collapse. This fulfills the principle that the proud will be humbled (James 4:6). The absence of princes demonstrates that human power structures are utterly dependent on God's permission; when He withdraws His restraining hand, even established kingdoms dissolve.