Isaiah 16:13
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Isaiah 16:13
13 This is the word that the LORD hath spoken concerning Moab since that time.
Chapter Context
Isaiah 16 is a prophetic oracle chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of hope, worship, judgment. Written during the Assyrian and pre-exilic periods (c. 740-680 BCE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: Addressed Judah during Assyria's rise, Babylon's threat, and anticipated restoration.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-12: Development of key themes
- Verses 13-14: Central message and teachings
This chapter is significant because it offers practical wisdom for godly living in a fallen world. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within Isaiah and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
Isaiah 16:13
13 This is the word that the LORD hath spoken concerning Moab since that time.
Analysis
"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.
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.
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?
Word Studies
- Word: דָּבָר (Davar) H1697 - Word, thing, matter