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Book of Isaiah - Chapter 21 - Verse 11

21:11
The burden of Dumah. He calleth to me out of Seir, Watchman, what of the night? Watchman, what of the night?

Meaning

The verse 'The burden of Dumah. He calleth to me out of Seir, Watchman, what of the night? Watchman, what of the night?' is found in the book of Isaiah in the Old Testament. The word "Dumah" means silence or stillness, and Seir was a mountain range in Edom. In this verse, Dumah is symbolic of a state of waiting or anticipation, while Seir represents a place of darkness and chaos. The watchman is being called upon to provide information about the night, which is often associated with danger, uncertainty, and the unknown. The repeated question "Watchman, what of the night?" emphasizes the urgency and importance of the inquiry. This verse serves as a reminder to be vigilant, to seek understanding in times of darkness, and to rely on those in positions of watchfulness to guide and protect us. It prompts reflection on the significance of seeking guidance and clarity in times of confusion and uncertainty.

Theological Overview

In the theological interpretation of the verse "The burden of Dumah. He calleth to me out of Seir, Watchman, what of the night? Watchman, what of the night?", scholars have debated the significance of Dumah and Seir in this context. Dumah is often seen as representing Edom, a nation known for its pride and rebellion against God. Seir, a mountain range in Edom, symbolizes the place where the call for repentance is coming from. The repetition of the question "Watchman, what of the night?" emphasizes the urgency and importance of the message being conveyed. The word "watchman" signifies a guardian or a prophet who is tasked with warning the people of impending danger or judgment. The night may symbolize a time of darkness, sin, or trouble, prompting the call for a watchman to provide guidance and hope. Overall, this verse highlights the need for spiritual vigilance and readiness for the coming judgment, as well as the importance of seeking wisdom and guidance from God's messengers.

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