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Book of Isaiah - Chapter 21 - Verse 1

21:1
The burden of the desert of the sea. As whirlwinds in the south pass through; so it cometh from the desert, from a terrible land.

Meaning

The verse "The burden of the desert of the sea. As whirlwinds in the south pass through; so it cometh from the desert, from a terrible land." (Isaiah 21:1) can be interpreted in various ways by scholars and theologians. In this verse, the "desert of the sea" is believed to refer to Babylon, a powerful nation that is described as a wilderness or desert in the context of the sea of peoples and nations. The mention of whirlwinds in the south passing through signifies the destructive and unstoppable force that is about to come from the desert. This could be a metaphor for the impending invasion or judgment that Babylon will face due to its wickedness and oppression of others. The verse serves as a warning of the impending doom that awaits those who choose to defy God's will and act unjustly. Overall, this verse can be seen as a reminder of the consequences of disobedience and the importance of living a righteous life in accordance with God's teachings.

Theological Overview

The verse "The burden of the desert of the sea..." from the book of Isaiah is a poetic image that conveys a message of impending destruction and judgment. The phrase "desert of the sea" is a paradoxical expression that symbolizes a desolate and barren place. The mention of whirlwinds in the south passing through indicates a swift and powerful force of destruction. The verse portrays the coming devastation as originating from a terrible land, suggesting that the judgment is inevitable and unstoppable. In a theological interpretation, this verse can be seen as a warning to the people of God to heed His call for repentance and obedience. It serves as a reminder of the consequences of turning away from God's commandments and the need for redemption. Through word studies, 'burden' can also be translated as 'oracle' or 'prophecy,' emphasizing the weightiness and importance of the message being conveyed. Overall, this verse serves as a powerful reminder of God's sovereignty and the consequences of disobedience.

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