Isaiah 37:22
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Isaiah 37:22
22 This is the word which the LORD hath spoken concerning him; The virgin, the daughter of Zion, hath despised thee, and laughed thee to scorn; the daughter of Jerusalem hath shaken her head at thee.
Chapter Context
Isaiah 37 is a prophetic oracle chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of fellowship, faith, prayer. 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 13-20: Central message and teachings
- Verses 21-38: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it addresses timeless questions about faith, suffering, and divine purpose. 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 37:22
22 This is the word which the LORD hath spoken concerning him; The virgin, the daughter of Zion, hath despised thee, and laughed thee to scorn; the daughter of Jerusalem hath shaken her head at thee.
Analysis
The oracle's opening "This is the word which the LORD hath spoken concerning him" identifies Sennacherib as the object of judgment. The personification of Jerusalem as "the virgin, the daughter of Zion" emphasizes her protected status under God's care. The verbs "despised...laughed to scorn" and "shaken her head" depict victorious mockery—a complete reversal where the threatened becomes the mocker. This prophetic poetry assures that God will turn the tables, vindicating His people and humiliating the arrogant.
Historical Context
Feminine personification of cities was common in ancient Near Eastern literature. Jerusalem's "virgin" status emphasized her purity under God's protection.
Reflection
- How does God promise to vindicate those who trust Him against mockers?
- What does Jerusalem's protected status teach about God's covenant faithfulness?
- How should the promise of eventual vindication sustain us through present mockery?
Word Studies
- Word: דָּבָר (Davar) H1697 - Word, thing, matter
Cross-References
- References Lord: Zechariah 2:10
- Word: Job 16:4, Jeremiah 14:17
- References Jerusalem: Lamentations 2:13, Zephaniah 3:14
- Parallel theme: Isaiah 1:8, Psalms 9:14