Isaiah 34:15
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Isaiah 34:15
15 There shall the great owl make her nest, and lay, and hatch, and gather under her shadow: there shall the vultures also be gathered, every one with her mate.
Chapter Context
Isaiah 34 is a prophetic oracle chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of covenant, love, 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 13-17: Central message and teachings
This chapter is significant because it reveals key aspects of God's character through divine actions and declarations. 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 34:15
15 There shall the great owl make her nest, and lay, and hatch, and gather under her shadow: there shall the vultures also be gathered, every one with her mate.
Analysis
The "great owl" making her nest and laying eggs represents creatures finding permanent habitation in ruins. The Hebrew "qippoz" (possibly arrow snake) suggests dangerous creatures breeding undisturbed. "Vultures" gathering indicates ongoing death and decay. This comprehensive picture of desolation shows that once-thriving civilization becomes the domain of predators and scavengers. The irony is stark: Edom sought security but finds only creatures of death and darkness.
Historical Context
Such detailed listing of creatures was a prophetic technique to emphasize totality. The breeding and gathering suggests not temporary but permanent desolation.
Reflection
- How does permanent desolation illustrate the enduring consequences of rejecting God?
- What does the breeding of creatures in ruins teach about how sin multiplies when unchecked?
- How should we view the "success" of godless societies knowing their ultimate fate?
Cross-References
- Parallel theme: Deuteronomy 14:13